Autoimmune Diseases and College Students' Academic Performance and Mental Health: A Qualitative Examination

There is limited research on the experiences of individuals with an autoimmune disease in the context of college. The goal of this qualitative investigation is to understand the experiences of individuals with autoimmune diseases in college, specifically regarding their mental well-being and their academic performance. Participants were recruited from a large university in the southeastern U.S. and through social media pages (N =11). Narrative data was analyzed using thematic analysis. Many participants reported a decline in academic performance and in mental well-being due to the symptoms of their autoimmune condition. Participants described their academic experiences as debilitating, frustrating, stressful, depressing, and anxiety-provoking. Many participants also talked about symptoms of anxiety and depression when discussing their experiences in college. Participants also advocated for awareness and support within colleges. Implications for individuals’ interpersonal and academic well-being are discussed, and recommendations are provided to best support these students. Colleges and universities should implement targeted support services, including increased awareness campaigns, accessible counselling and mental health resources, academic accommodations, and faculty training to better understand the challenges faced by students with autoimmune diseases. These interventions can improve students’ academic outcomes, reduce psychological distress, and foster a more inclusive and supportive campus environment.