In this episode, we dive into the mental health challenges faced by post-graduate and mature students in a university setting. Titus Joseph, a masters student studying Public Health at the University of Nottingham, speaks with Dr. Patricia (Trish) Jackman, Associate Professor of Sport and Exercise Psychology at the University of Lincoln, about her research.
Titus is a mature student and has experienced his own set of personal challenges as he went back to university at the age of 33. Balancing academics, work, family and finances in the early stages of his program left him feeling lonely and disconnected from the university experience. In his conversation with Trish, he tried to understand how other mature students felt and the interventions that have the potential to change things for the better.
Together, they explore the unique stressors and pressures that mature students face, including the need to balance academic work with family and professional responsibilities. Drawing on her extensive experience and research, Dr. Jackman provides insights into how co-produced inductions for postgraduate and mature students can act as a preventive measure, promoting a sense of belonging and reducing feelings of isolation. Whether you're a mature student yourself, or simply interested in understanding this important issue, this episode offers valuable insights and practical tips to help you thrive in the university environment.
You can read more about Dr. Jackmans work here: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/21568235.2021.1992293
You can access all resources and outputs from the Getting Off to a Mentally Healthy Start in Doctoral Study project, funded by the Student Mental Health Research Network, here:
https://lili.blogs.lincoln.ac.uk/2021/07/14/new-guidance-to-support-doctoral-researchers-mental-health/
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