This month, TaMIS held a discussion on the mental health challenges faced by students and faculty in academia, focusing on the underlying causes of these issues and how institutions like Penn State can provide better support. The conversation covered a range of topics, from systemic inequalities to the role of mentorship in improving well-being.

Key Ideas Discussed:

1. Mental health crisis in academia
   Academia is rife with inequality—racism, sexism, homophobia, classism, among others—which can lead to depression and other mental health struggles. These issues, combined with the pressure of hierarchical relationships, contribute to a growing mental health crisis among graduate students, as well as among more senior scientists. Numerous studies highlight the prevalence of mental health struggles among graduate students, and many later-career scientists also report facing similar challenges.
2. Specific Issues at Penn State
   A specific issue noted by participants was that current systems, such as Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), are understaffed and unable to provide long-term care, leaving many without adequate support. Ombudspeople, the graduate school’s resource for conflict resolution, are only able to provide information and have little administrative power and thus may not be able to address every situation effectively. Outside of PSU, local mental health resources are also limited, with few options in the State College area. Further, even within Penn State, students often find it difficult to find and access any support or resources that are available.
3. Places and suggestions for improvement
   1. Work-life balance
      There is a need for greater flexibility from both academic and administrative leaders to foster better work-life balance. Flexibility must be mutual, allowing both students and faculty to adapt to the needs of their work and personal lives.
   2. Improving mentorship
      Penn State does not currently provide widespread training on how to be an effective mentor, and existing mentorship resources are not well advertised. Establishing clear guidelines and expectations can also help streamline complicated relationships.

Actionable Items:

Establishing clear communication within labs is crucial. Lab compacts, which outline expectations and responsibilities, are a useful tool for fostering better communication between students and their PIs, as well as among peers within a lab group.