EXPLORING SERVICE PROVIDERS’ PERSPECTIVES ON MENTAL HEALTH- MUSLIM UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

Abstract

This study examines the perspectives of seven mental health professionals who work with Muslim university students. The study specifically examines the experiences, struggles, and needs of Muslim university students in accessing mental health services from the perspective of mental health providers. Additionally, this study presents recommendations for service providers to consider when working with Muslim university students. It has been observed that almost all theories and data related to contemporary psychology have come from Western populations (Basit & Hamid, 2010). Hence this study attempts to fill a void in current knowledge. A qualitative research study (Mason, 2000) utilizing a critical social science approach as well as principles related to Grounded Theory were applied to this study. Individual interviews were carried out with seven participants. The data analysis revealed various themes: understandings of well-being, factors impacting Muslim students’ well being, existing needs, and a proposed model when working with Muslim Students. The paper concludes with a brief set of recommendations for practice and limitations.