title: The meaning of higher education for people diagnosed with a mental illness: four students share their experiences.
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.
authors.affiliation: Department of Occupational Therapy, Kean University, Union, New Jersey, USA.
authors.forename: Laurie
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Knis-Matthews
authors.forename: Josephine
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Bokara
authors.forename: Lorena
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: DeMeo
authors.forename: Nicole
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Lepore
authors.forename: Lauren
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Mavus
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D003631:Day Care, Medical; D003865:Major Depressive Disorder / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D004496:Education, Continuing; D004517:Education, Professional; D004519:Education, Special; D004522:Educational Status; D005260:Female; D006040:Goals; D006801:Humans; D007206:Individuality; D007406:Interview, Psychological; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010549:Personal Satisfaction; D011618:Psychotic Disorders / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D012050:Rehabilitation, Vocational / Q000523:psychology*; D012380:Role; D012803:Sick Role; D012944:Social Support; D013334:Students / Q000523:psychology*