UNCF Study Reveals Strong Mental Health Outcomes Among HBCU Students Despite Financial Challenges

Dr. Michael L. LomaxA new study released by the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) has found that students at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) demonstrate significantly stronger mental health outcomes compared to their peers at other institutions, despite facing greater financial stressors and barriers to mental health services.

The comprehensive report, titled “Flourishing: Bolstering the Mental Health of Students at HBCUs and PBIs," examined mental health indicators among 2,504 students across 16 HBCUs and two predominantly Black institutions (PBIs) during the 2022-2023 and 2023-2024 academic years.

“This research confirms what we've long understood about the unique power of HBCUs to nurture not just academic achievement, but holistic well-being among HBCU students,” said Dr. Michael L. Lomax, UNCF president and CEO. "Even with fewer resources than our peers, these institutions create environments where students are affirmed and celebrated, fostering remarkable mental resilience despite significant socioeconomic challenges."

The study, conducted in partnership with UNCF's Institute for Capacity Building, the Healthy Minds Network, and The Steve Fund, revealed what researchers call “The HBCU Effect” on mental health:

Despite these positive outcomes, the research identified notable mental health challenges for HBCU students:

The findings highlight a critical need for increased resources and support for HBCUs, which are achieving remarkable outcomes despite limited funding. Policymakers and higher education leaders are being called upon to address these disparities and provide targeted investments to further improve outcomes for these resilient students.