Mental Health Leaves of Absence in College and Therapy: A Qualitative Study of Student Experiences

Mental health leaves of absence have increased among college students, but little is known about their experiences. We explored the role of psychotherapy among college students before, during, and after a mental health leave, using thematic analysis of semistructured interviews with 11 students who returned successfully to college after a mental health leave. College students who took a mental health leave typically sought therapy too late to prevent the leave, but benefitted from therapy while they were on leave and when they returned to college. Key outcomes of therapy included understanding the process that led to leaves, developing a plan and better coping skills for return, learning to avoid or manage symptoms, and growing closer to families and other supports. Proactive policies might prevent mental health leaves, but would require a new level of attention. Psychotherapy during and after the leave can lead to successful returns to college.