A Student-Centered Mental Health Virtual Community Needs and Features: A Focus Group Study
Christo El Morr1, Catherine Maule1, Iqra Ashfaq2
1School of Health Policy and Management, York University Toronto, Canada.
University students face rising mental health issues like anxiety and depression. An online mindfulness community offers a scalable solution, addressing challenges and benefits identified through student focus groups.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Public Health
- Digital Health
Background:
- Mental health challenges, including anxiety, stress, and depression, are increasingly prevalent among university/college students.
- There is a need for scalable and economically viable innovations to support student mental well-being on North American campuses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore student perspectives on online activities and the development of an online mindfulness-based Mental Health Virtual Community.
- To identify the potential challenges and benefits associated with such a virtual community.
Main Methods:
- Conducted 8 focus groups with York University students from April to May 2016.
- Employed qualitative analysis to interpret student feedback on online mental health support.
Main Results:
- Student feedback highlighted specific challenges and benefits regarding engagement with an online mindfulness-based Mental Health Virtual Community.
- Qualitative data provided insights into student needs and preferences for digital mental health interventions.
Conclusions:
- An online mindfulness-based Mental Health Virtual Community shows promise as a supportive resource for university students.
- Understanding student perspectives is crucial for designing effective and accessible digital mental health solutions for campuses.
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