Undergraduate student reflections of the Out of Darkness storytelling project on bipolar disorder stigma: A qualitative study

Abstract

Mental illness is prevalent amongst university-aged individuals; however, stigma makes it difficult for these individuals to reach out for support. Arts-based approaches, specifically, digital storytelling interventions, have shown promise in addressing mental health difficulties and stigma. This study involved university students viewing a set of digital storytelling films (the Out of Darkness project – which were originally created for medical residents in psychiatry) and then participating in a focus group discussion to explore students’ experience of watching the films. We transcribed focus group discussions and used thematic analysis to uncover student perspectives of the digital storytelling intervention. The major themes identified include a change in attitude, empathy, and compassion, encouraging conversation, recognizing the importance of support, increased understanding that mental illness is not a choice, and acknowledging the stigma that still exists. The findings of this study suggest that the Out of Darkness digital storytelling intervention has merit beyond the training of medical professionals and can act as a valuable tool for addressing the stigma associated with severe mental illness on university campuses.