Priorities and directions for future research on student mental health within UK Higher Education Institutions: a scoping review protocol

Background: In recent years, the mental health of students in the United Kingdom (UK) has become increasingly prominent, highlighting the need for a comprehensive examination on the existing knowledge on the subject. It is important that we seek to understand what is currently known about student mental health in Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) across the UK given the diverse educational and socio-political contexts and health and social care systems to guide and advance future research. While doing so, we aim to show the differing states of research across UK’s four constituent nations – namely England, Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Wales – and compare the mental health challenges and support systems that each nation contains. To date, a scoping review which maps the available literature has yet to be conducted. Here, we outline the protocol for a scoping review on student mental health in HEIs in the UK.
Methods: This protocol outlines the process of conducting a scoping review of primary research concerning student mental health in HEIs in the UK. The Joanna Briggs Institute guidance on best practice for conducting a scoping review will be utilised throughout. A systematic search of appropriate databases will be conducted which will allow for a two-step screening process and data charting. Inclusion criteria for this review dictates that eligible studies will: (a) include a population aged 16 years plus, (b) include the term ‘mental health', (c) include data collected within the UK, (d) be primary research, (e) be published post-2003 and (f) be published in English.
Discussion: The findings of the scoping review outlined in this protocol will be used to inform any immediate actions that can be taken to support better student mental health in the UK as well as guide future research in the area. This review will help build guidance on how to strengthen the evidence base on student mental health in the UK for students, educational providers, academics and mental health practitioners with the aim of raising awareness and improving research, policy and practice across the four nations.