Title

The meaning of higher education for people diagnosed with a mental illness: Four students share their experiences

Authors

Laurie Knis-Matthews, Kean University
Josephine Bokara, Kean University
Lorena DeMeo, Kean University
Nicole Lepore, Kean University
Lauren Mavus, Kean University

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

9-1-2008

Abstract

In this qualitative study, four participants diagnosed with a mental illness were interviewed to explore their experiences while attending a post-secondary school. Each participant described how education helped them to find a sense of purpose in their lives. Education is also described as a means of transition from the patient role to other roles such as student or worker. However, the symptoms and stigma associated with their mental illness has created additional challenges for them while in a school setting. Supportive professors and counselors were viewed as helpful in overcoming these barriers. Copyright 2007 Trustees of Boston University.

Publication Title

Psychiatric Rehabilitation Journal

First Page Number

107

Last Page Number

114

DOI

10.2975/31.2.2007.107.114

Recommended Citation

Knis-Matthews, Laurie; Bokara, Josephine; DeMeo, Lorena; Lepore, Nicole; and Mavus, Lauren, "The meaning of higher education for people diagnosed with a mental illness: Four students share their experiences" (2008). Kean Publications. 2463.
https://digitalcommons.kean.edu/keanpublications/2463