In this blogpost, we venture into the relationship between inclusivity and mental health in academic settings. Here, we unfold the narrative of forging thriving environments, dismantling stigma, nurturing inclusivity, and elevating collective well-being within diverse student bodies.
The essence of fostering mental well-being lies in understanding and addressing diverse mental health needs. These needs are intricately woven into the fabric of culture, social structures, and individual identities, significantly impacting communication, coping mechanisms, and help-seeking behaviors. Socially, mental illness carries stigma, perpetuating discrimination and hindering timely care. Gender inequalities, socioeconomic factors, rapid urbanization, and family dynamics compound mental health challenges. Cultural beliefs and the societal burden of mental health issues contribute to reduced quality of life and strain on resources.
In the given circumstances, recognizing intersectionality is crucial for creating inclusive mental health care, acknowledging diverse identities, and addressing systemic imbalances in college environments. In our exploration of the vital connection between inclusivity and mental health within the college community, a profound tool comes into focus—the Intersectionality Wheel.
This visual guide unveils the interplay of cultural, social, and identity impacts on mental health. The central circle outlines aspects of privilege and power tied to individual identity, including family background, opportunities, actions, and exposures. Overlaid by a secondary layer with inconsistent elements like age, education, occupation, social status, and religion, along with consistent elements such as skin colour, indigeneity, caste, and work history.
Moving outward, various kinds of discrimination emerge like racism, ableism, hinging on specific identities. The possession of a specific identity becomes the determining factor for experiencing discriminatory treatment. The outermost layer encompasses social structures, including the economy, globalization, war, education systems, and politics. These structures either bolster existing discrimination or contribute to its persistence.
The interplay of personal identities, power dynamics, and societal forces results in environments where certain forms of discrimination emerge, perpetuated by underlying social structures. In creating diverse and inclusive spaces, understanding how multiple identities intersect allows us to conceptualize the ways in which power, privilege, and discrimination interact, producing unique mental health narratives.
Recognising that higher education institutions serve as microcosms of society further underscores their role in shaping future citizens. Environments that encourage belongingness are identified as the crucible for nurturing empathetic, inclusive, and thoughtful leaders. This emphasizes unlearning and relearning as a continuous process of growth and transformation for students, faculty, and staff. To foster a truly inclusive environment, a culture of open dialogue and respectful conversations becomes supreme. The formation of student-led clubs and forums emerges as a catalyst for promoting understanding and empowering students to express their unique identities and perspectives. The commitment to holistic well-being, facilitated by access to adequate mental health and informed counseling services, is identified as a cornerstone of inclusivity. Central to this paradigm shift is the spirit of empathy, instilled among students through experiential problem-solving. This approach not only bridges gaps in understanding but also reimagines pedagogy to foster a truly inclusive classroom environment.
At the forefront of this transformative journey is the establishment of inclusive support networks. A shining example is visible in student-faculty collaborations at Dr. Br. Ambedkar University, Delhi. Ehsaas, the Psychotherapy Clinic at Ambedkar University Delhi, a unique basis for inclusive mental health support since 2011, providing services for individuals, couples, and families with a focus on psychological distress. Operating inclusively, Ehsaas offers psycho-diagnostic testing and referrals, employing a psychoanalytic perspective to foster reflection and insight into various life aspects. With a commitment to accessibility, the clinic uses a sliding fee scale and provides free psychotherapeutic support, creating a caring community that challenges healthcare commercialization. Reinvesting its proceeds, Ehsaas supports those with chronic mental illness, contributing to transformative impacts on human subjectivity. Awaaz, the annual mental health fest by the Centre for Psychotherapy and Clinical Research (CPCR) at Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University Delhi, exemplifies an inclusive support network within education. Providing a dedicated space for students to explore their identities, Awaaz fosters understanding, empathy, and inclusivity, addressing the complexities students face and preventing isolation. The festival facilitates engagement with sociocultural-emotional integration, contributing to transformative impacts on student well-being. The Awaaz schedule includes film screenings, panel discussions, talks, and a cultural evening, creating an open environment for expression and performances. By addressing challenges in selfhood, sexuality, and mental distress, Awaaz prevents isolation, contributing to a transformative impact on student well-being.
Cultivating an environment where students can openly discuss their mental health challenges contributes significantly to breaking down barriers and encourages seeking help without reservations. The creation of judgment-free spaces serves as safe havens where individuals can express themselves without fear of stigma or discrimination. To promote inclusivity, attending diversity events, workshops, and engaging in conversations are actionable steps that empower students to contribute actively to shaping a campus culture that values diversity. This proactive involvement becomes contributory in fostering understanding and support for the well-being of every individual.
The benefits of an inclusive mental health approach extend far beyond individual well-being. The ripple effect of inclusivity underscores that positive changes extend beyond individual actions. Through collective efforts, colleges can become spaces where mental health is prioritized, stigmas are dismantled, and every student can thrive in an inclusive and supportive community. This positivity influences academics by promoting a healthy and focused mindset, enhances relationships by fostering empathy and understanding, and contributes to overall well-being by creating a supportive community.
References
Gopalkrishnan, N. (2018, June 19). Cultural Diversity and Mental Health: Considerations for Policy and Practice. Frontiers in Public Health, Chapter 2. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK44249/
Viswambaran, Visakh, & Diwakar, Dilip. (2021). Intersectionality and Inclusive Education: The Missing Piece of the Jigsaw Puzzle.
Castillo, E. G., Ijadi-Maghsoodi, R., Shadravan, S., Moore, E., Mensah, M. O., 3rd, Docherty, M., Aguilera Nunez, M. G., Barcelo, N., Goodsmith, N., Halpin, L. E., Morton, I., Mango, J., Montero, A. E., Rahmanian Koushkaki, S., Bromley, E., Chung, B., Jones, F., Gabrielian, S., Gelberg, L., Greenberg, J. M., … Wells, K. B. (2019). Community Interventions to Promote Mental Health and Social Equity. Current Psychiatry Reports, 21(5), 35. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11920-019-1018-9
Red Elephant Foundation. (n.d.). Understanding Intersectionality. Medium. https://medium.com/the-red-elephant-foundation/understanding-intersectionality-a1da46e2e0b2
Dhyani, A., Gaidhane, A., Choudhari, S. G., Dave, S., & Choudhary, S. (2022). Strengthening Response Toward Promoting Mental Health in India: A Narrative Review. Cureus, 14(10), e30435. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.30435
Great article! The way you've connected the dots between diverse identities, systemic imbalances, and mental health needs in academic settings is both profound and enlightening.
I particularly enjoyed your exploration of the Intersectionality Wheel—it’s an excellent visual tool that effectively highlights the complexities of privilege, power, and discrimination. The piece captures the essence of creating environments where empathy, open dialogue, and holistic well-being are prioritized. It’s inspiring to see how these elements can transform college campuses into nurturing and inclusive spaces for all students. Kudos to you for shedding light on such a crucial topic with such depth and clarity!
Have to admit it is a well researched and informative piece of work.
very well written blog on the importance of inclusivity in mental health! the part on the intersectionality wheel was helpful in understanding different aspects of the topic
Really Insightful! Keep Up the Good Work
Insightful exploration of inclusivity and mental health in college settings, addressing diverse needs and dismantling stigma. Highlights the importance of recognizing intersectionality and understanding power dynamics in creating inclusive environments. Provides examples of inclusive support networks and initiatives at Dr. Br. Ambedkar University, Delhi. Emphasizes the role of open dialogue, empathy, and student engagement in fostering inclusivity. Demonstrates the broader impact of an inclusive mental health approach on academics, relationships, and overall well-being.