Exploring Student Veterans Mental Health Stigma Coping Strategies in Higher Education: A Phenomenological Study
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Authors
Edwards, Sandra
Issue Date
2025-10
Type
Dissertation
Language
en
Keywords
Student Veterans , Student Veterans in Higher Education , Student Veterans Stigma in Higher Education , Military Learners & Veteran Transition
Alternative Title
Abstract
Veterans who pursue higher education as a pathway to civilian reintegration often encounter unique challenges, particularly related to mental health stigma. This study aimed to explore the coping strategies student veterans employ in managing mental health stigma within the higher education context. Understanding stigma management strategies is crucial to supporting the well-being of student veterans and ensuring their successful academic completion. Guided by Meisenbach’s Stigma Management Communication (SMC) Theory, which categorizes communicative strategies used to manage stigma, this descriptive phenomenological study examined the lived experiences of student veterans through semi-structured interviews conducted via Zoom. Participants reflected on their military background, academic environments, relationships with peers, faculty, and staff, as well as institutional support systems. Findings indicated that military cultural norms surrounding mental health strongly influenced participants’ approaches to stigma management. The predominant coping strategy identified was concealment and avoidance, often resulting in unmet mental health needs. These results underscore the pressing need to challenge stigma, prioritize the well-being of student veterans, and refine institutional practices and resources to better support this population. Additionally, the findings call on higher education policymakers to implement systemic changes that address veterans’ transitional challenges, particularly those linked to mental health. Future research should further investigate the range of coping strategies and their implications for both mental health outcomes and academic performance among student veterans.