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A Qualitative Evaluation of the Motivations, Experiences, and Impact of a Mental Wellbeing Peer Support Group for Black University Students in England and Wales: The Case of Black Students Talk

Author

Listed:
  • Nkasi Stoll
  • Anna-Theresa Jieman
  • Yannick Yalipende
  • Nicola C. Byrom
  • Heidi Lempp
  • Stephani L. Hatch

Abstract

Online peer support programs could address mental wellbeing concerns reported by Black students. The current evaluation explored Black university students’ motivations, experiences, and perceived impacts of an online mental wellbeing peer support group (Black Students Talk [BST]) in England and Wales. We conducted two focus groups with Black Students Talk attendees and one with facilitators. Data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Three main themes and eight sub-themes where identified related to (i) Motivation: Impact of racism on mental wellbeing; (ii) Experience: The Black Students Talk experience; and (iii) Impact: Mental wellbeing outcomes. Benefits of Black Students Talk for Black students included advice, rest, validation, and support in the context of their race and experiences of racism. Facilitators had a unique sub-theme concerning their training and support. While racism exists at universities, online peer support can offer valuable benefits for Black students’ mental wellbeing, social connectedness, and Black-only networks. Programs need to be co-created and delivered by trained Black students who receive reflective practice with a Black practitioner. Further independent evaluations using insights from survey and interview data are needed.

Suggested Citation

  • Nkasi Stoll & Anna-Theresa Jieman & Yannick Yalipende & Nicola C. Byrom & Heidi Lempp & Stephani L. Hatch, 2023. "A Qualitative Evaluation of the Motivations, Experiences, and Impact of a Mental Wellbeing Peer Support Group for Black University Students in England and Wales: The Case of Black Students Talk," SAGE Open, , vol. 13(4), pages 21582440231, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:sagope:v:13:y:2023:i:4:p:21582440231218080
    DOI: 10.1177/21582440231218080
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Wallace, S. & Nazroo, J. & Bécares, L., 2016. "Cumulative effect of racial discrimination on the mental health of ethnic minorities in the United Kingdom," American Journal of Public Health, American Public Health Association, vol. 106(7), pages 1294-1300.
    2. Jason Arday, 2018. "Understanding Mental Health: What Are the Issues for Black and Ethnic Minority Students at University?," Social Sciences, MDPI, vol. 7(10), pages 1-25, October.
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