The Role of University Support Services in Addressing Mental Health Challenges

A Narrative Review

https://doi.org/10.56741/apsa.v1i02.1133

Authors

Keywords:

Challenges, Help-seeking, Mental Health, University Support

Abstract

University students face significant mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, and stress, which may negatively impact their academic performance and overall well-being. This narrative review explores the important role of university support services in addressing these challenges. Services such as on-campus counselling, wellness programs, and peer support initiatives are vital in providing professional guidance, coping strategies, and fostering a supportive environment. It also highlights barriers to accessing these services, including stigma, long wait times, and cultural or socioeconomic factors, which can affect students from seeking help. Innovative approaches like digital platforms, teletherapy, and holistic wellness programs can enhance accessibility and engagement. The review identifies research gaps, particularly regarding the long-term impacts of mental health services on academic success. Recommendations emphasize the importance of culturally competent care, collaboration with faculty and staff, and ongoing evaluation to improve service delivery. By prioritizing mental health services and adopting innovative strategies, universities can better support their students, reduce stigma, and promote help-seeking behaviours. This review calls for institutions to expand and improve their mental health programs to meet their students' diverse and growing needs.

Author Biographies

Ferry Damarjata Satriono, Mahsa University

is a pediatric specialist currently teaching in the Pediatric Unit at the Faculty of Medicine, MAHSA University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. He is an experienced educator and clinical pediatrician interested in neurosciences. His academic focus also includes medical education development and research. He actively contributes to pediatric training and curriculum enhancement. He is committed to advancing both clinical practice and academic excellence in pediatrics. (email: ferrydamarjata@mahsa.edu.my).

Tahereh Seghatoleslam, University of Tehran

is a renowned professor and expert in psychology. Currently, she works at the Women's Studies Department at the Centre of Women and Family Studies, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran. Her academic focus includes gender studies, mental health, addiction, and family dynamics. She is an active researcher with a strong track record of publishing in reputable international journals. Her contributions have significantly advanced scholarly understanding in psychology and women's studies. (email: drtseghatoleslam@googlemail.com).

Hussain Habil, Mahsa University

is a distinguished professor and expert in the field of psychiatry. He teaches in the Psychiatry Unit, Faculty of Medicine, at MAHSA University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. He is both an experienced Academician and an internationally recognized psychiatric practitioner. He has actively contributed to the field through numerous publications in reputable international journals. His work reflects a deep commitment to advancing psychiatric research and education globally. (email: hussainhab@mahsa.edu.my).

Winny Nurhajati Wishwadewa, Independent Paediatric Researcher

is a pediatric specialist currently working as an Independent Pediatric Researcher in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. She is a dedicated practitioner interested in neuroscience and child development. Her work advances knowledge in pediatric growth, development, and neurological health. She is committed to contributing to research that improves outcomes for children. (email: mamiade.pediatric@gmail.com).

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Published

2025-07-07

How to Cite

Satriono, F. D., Seghatoleslam, T., Habil, H., & Wishwadewa, W. N. (2025). The Role of University Support Services in Addressing Mental Health Challenges: A Narrative Review. Advances in Psychological Sciences and Applications, 1(02), 73–80. https://doi.org/10.56741/apsa.v1i02.1133

Issue

Vol. 1 No. 02 (2025): Advances in Psychological Sciences and Applications

Section

Articles
Copyright & Licensing

Copyright (c) 2025 Ferry Damarjata Satriono, Tahereh Seghatoleslam, Hussain Habil, Winny Nurhajati Wishwadewa

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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International License.