"They're Coming in Pretty Defeated:" Mental Health During the COVID-19 Pandemic( Practice Brief)

ABSTRACT

Limited research explores postsecondary disability resource professionals' (DRPs) perceptions and experiences supporting students during the COVID-19 pandemic. As part of a larger study utilizing national survey and interview data, this paper explores DRPs' experiences and observations related to student mental health during the pandemic-related lockdowns and subsequent transitions back to in- person campus settings. The findings of this study reveal DRPs are grappling with increasing student numbers, continuing need for expanded mental health accommodations and supports, and a persisting urgency to re-examine the role of the disability resource office (DRO) on campus related to student mental health. Implications and strategies for practice.