Exploring the health, well-being and support of social work students at a selected university

Abstract

The purpose of this research study was to explore and describe the lived experiences of social work students at a selected university in three areas: health, well-being and support. The research approach used was qualitative and the research design was phenomenological, since it required the researcher to focus on participants’ lived experiences in three thematic areas. Three specific questions were asked of the participants of the study. These were: (i) Describe a particular situation in which you experienced an emotional event(s) while on campus that affected your studies thereafter; (ii) How did this event and experience affect your health and well-being (physical, spiritual, emotional, mental, intellectual, financial, social or in terms of occupational health)? (iii) What are the kinds of support you needed and used at the university