According to a new study from scholars at the University of Michigan and the United Negro College Fund, Black students who attend a historically Black college or university are more likely to experience better mental health outcomes than their peers at other institutions.
The study consists of data from the Healthy Minds Study, an annual survey led by the Healthy Minds Network at the University of Michigan that aims to understand the current state of mental health among college students. In an examination of over 2,500 students at 16 HBCUs and two predominately Black institutions, the report reveals significant differences in the mental health of Black students compared to national averages.
Roughly 45 percent of Black students at HBCUs reported they were flourishing mentally at school, compared to 36 percent of college students nationally. The vast majority (83 percent) of Black HBCU students said they felt a sense of belonging on campus, versus 73 percent nationally. Compared to national averages, Black students at HBCUs also had lower rates of anxiety, eating disorders, and substance use.
Notably, the better mental health of Black HBCU students exists despite the significant socioeconomic challenges and lack of resources that have persisted in these communities. Over half of Black HBCU students reported experiencing at least some financial challenges. Among those who do experience financial insecurity, 78 percent reported mental health problems, compared to just 26 percent of their peers who are financially secure. Furthermore, 54 percent of Black HBCU students said they had unmet mental health needs, compared to 41 percent of students nationally.
Historically Black institutions “are intentional about serving Black students as their mission and Black students thrive on these campuses because they are the focus, as all programs, services, and events are designed with Black students at the center,” the authors write. However, “the elevated prevalence of mental health concerns underscores the need for increased support and resources to address the alarming trends indicating declines in mental health.”
HBCUs remind me of charter schools charged with serving a special population. I think schools that commit to focusing on a specific market serve those students well. The goal is to nurture that population so they can be the best that they can be.
I equate it to having a “second set of parents”. Parents who can coach them to get to where they need to be. Coaches that supplement academic training with non-curriculum life skills for when they graduate.
There is still a place for HBCUs.