Addressing the Unique Pressures on Black Students in Higher Education

As Black Minds Matter UK continues its With You(th) In Mind University Tour, we’ve had eye-opening conversations with Black students about the unique pressures they face. Many Black students, particularly those from abroad, are dealing with stress on multiple fronts: from social isolation and financial strain to the added pressure of adapting to an unfamiliar academic system.

With Stress Awareness Day coming up, it’s a reminder of the duty of care our universities must uphold to support the mental well-being of all students.

Themes and Insights from the Tour

Isolation and Social Stress:

Many Black students shared how hard it can be to make meaningful connections, leading to a real sense of isolation. For Black international students, this lack of community can impact mental health and make students feel even further away from home.

Financial Pressures:

For some, student loans aren’t just for personal expenses—they’re also helping family back home. That’s an enormous burden, made harder by the challenge of managing a tight budget while studying.

Balancing Faith and Academics:

Church groups are a lifeline for many students socially, but the expectations around involvement often compete with academic demands, adding another layer of stress.

The Pressure to Perform:

For international students, especially those on scholarships, there’s an intense drive to excel. Many find the transition to the UK grading system adds another hurdle, as they work to meet high expectations while adjusting to a new academic culture.

Feeling Alone in Academic Spaces:

Many Black students report the stress of often being the only Black person in lectures or seminars. This can amplify self-consciousness, making them feel hyper-aware in these spaces, which impacts their confidence and experience.

A Call for Duty of Care in Higher Education

These insights highlight a pressing need for culturally sensitive mental health support within universities. Academic institutions have a responsibility to understand and address these unique pressures.

Our Questions for Academic Leaders:

What support systems does your institution offer to meet these specific challenges?

Are there initiatives designed to provide culturally inclusive mental health support?

Our With You(th) In Mind University Tour shows how vital it is for universities to create environments where Black students can feel connected, supported, and understood. By making culturally relevant mental health resources available, we can work towards ensuring Black students get the support that they need.

Visit our website https://www.blackmindsmatteruk.com/