Understanding the experiences of autistic university students: the impact of mental health

Abstract

Introduction: Autistic students may face challenges in adapting to a new educational context and to the social world surrounding university experiences. Autistic people are at greater risk of difficulties in mental health, with a higher incidence of anxiety and depressive conditions, as well as increased suicidal ideation and suicide attempts. Greater difficulties with passing courses and completing degree programs have also been reported. Exploring the reality of Latin America regarding mental health and the university experiences of autistic people is relevant because university systems, public policies, history, and context have characteristics that differ from those of other countries. Objective: This study aims to understand the experiences of autistic students and how these experiences affect their mental health. Method: A qualitative methodology with a phenomenological approach was used. Semistructured interviews were conducted with autistic university students. Data analysis followed the guidelines of Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Results: Several categories emerged; however, in this article, we refer to the category “Mental Health and University Life” and its respective subcategories: Fear, Anxiety, Distress, and Depression; Suicidal Ideation and Self-Harm; and Mental Health and Its Impact on University Life. Conclusions: The analysis of the narratives allowed us to observe how mental health difficulties affect students’ participation in academic and social activities at the university, as well as how the experiences they have in these contexts can also negatively affect their mental health.