WASHINGTON, D.C.—A groundbreaking study released by the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) and the Healthy Minds Network reveals that students at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) exhibit significantly stronger mental health outcomes than their peers nationwide, despite facing greater financial stress and limited access to mental health services.
The report, titled “Flourishing: Bolstering the Mental Health of Students at HBCUs and PBIs,” analyzed mental health trends among 2,504 students from 16 HBCUs and two predominantly Black institutions (PBIs) over the 2022-2023 and 2023-2024 academic years.
The HBCU Effect on Mental Health
The findings support what researchers describe as The HBCU Effect—the positive impact these institutions have on student well-being:
Higher mental health flourishing rates: 45% of HBCU students report strong mental health, compared to 36% nationally and 38% of Black students at predominantly white institutions (PWIs).
Stronger sense of belonging: 83% of HBCU students feel connected to their campus community, compared to 73% nationally and 72% of Black students at PWIs.
Lower anxiety and substance use: HBCU students report significantly lower rates of anxiety, substance use disorders, and eating disorders than the national average.
Greater emotional openness: Only 74% of HBCU students suppress negative feelings when sad, compared to 86% of Black students at PWIs.
Higher institutional trust: 78% of HBCU students believe their schools prioritize mental well-being, compared to 73% of Black students at PWIs.
Challenges Persist Despite Positive Trends
Despite these encouraging outcomes, the study also highlights key challenges that HBCU students continue to face:
Financial stress: 51% of HBCU students say their financial situation is “always” or “often” stressful, and 78% of those experiencing financial stress report at least one mental health problem.
Unmet treatment needs: 54% of HBCU students with moderate to severe symptoms receive no mental health treatment, exceeding the 41% national average and 47% among Black students at PWIs.
Mental health stigma: 52% of HBCU students perceive stigma around seeking mental health treatment, compared to 41% nationally.
Call for Increased Support
Dr. Michael L. Lomax, UNCF president and CEO, emphasized the unique role HBCUs play in fostering student well-being. “This research confirms what we’ve long understood: HBCUs do more than educate—they create environments where students are affirmed, celebrated, and mentally resilient despite socioeconomic hardships,” Lomax said.
The study, conducted in collaboration with UNCF’s Institute for Capacity Building, the Healthy Minds Network, and The Steve Fund, underscores the need for targeted investment and policy changes to ensure HBCU students receive adequate mental health support. Researchers argue that while HBCUs are achieving remarkable results with limited resources, expanded funding could further improve outcomes for their students.
With mental health increasingly recognized as a critical factor in academic success and long-term well-being, experts urge policymakers and higher education leaders to prioritize resources that support HBCU students in overcoming persistent challenges.
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