Doctoral student perspectives on mental health and wellbeing

This chapter concludes this edited collection by directly presenting voices from three doctoral researchers in conversation with the editors. Supplementing existing research with doctoral researchers that relies on capturing their voice through surveys and interviews, this chapter engages in a conversation-style methodology to capture unmediated experiences. The participants, who shared their insights on mental health during doctoral studies, discuss their challenges and perspectives, shedding light on the complex landscape of mental health and wellbeing during the doctorate. Drawing on the notion that conversations can be a form of participatory action research, the chapter explores the collaborative and reflective nature of this approach. Methodological and ethical considerations are acknowledged, noting the potential bias of participants who are more willing to share experiences and recognising the diversity of student voices within the doctoral community. The chapter provides valuable insights into the multifaceted aspects of mental health and wellbeing in the context of doctoral studies and draws together themes from the previous chapters.