Psychology

Nationwide assessment of the mental health of UK Doctoral Researchers

C. M. Hazell, J. E. Niven, et al.

This study by Cassie M. Hazell and colleagues investigates the pressing issue of mental health among Doctoral Researchers (DRs). It reveals alarming levels of anxiety and depression among DRs compared to educated working controls, challenging the normalization of poor mental health in the PhD journey. The findings urge universities and funders to re-evaluate support for DRs' wellbeing.

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Playback language: English

Index

Abstract

Doctoral Researchers (DRs) are vital to the academic community and contribute significantly post-graduation. However, their wellbeing is a concern. This study compares DRs with educated working controls, revealing DRs report significantly higher anxiety and depression, not explained by pre-existing mental health issues. Many DRs view poor mental health as normal during PhDs. This highlights a detrimental effect of PhD study on mental health, demanding that universities and funders review DR training and mental health support.

Publisher

HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES COMMUNICATIONS

Published On

Dec 09, 2021

Authors

Cassie M. Hazell, Jeremy E. Niven, Laura Chapman, Paul E. Roberts, Sam Cartwright-Hatton, Sophie Valeix, Clio Berry

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