Introduction
As the spotlight on researchers' mental health grows, especially for those immersed in emotionally demanding research (EDR), the need for robust support strategies becomes more evident.
A new study, led by Dr Mary Quinton of the SPRINT project at the University of Birmingham, published in the International Journal of Qualitative Studies on Health and Well-being, set out to uncover best practices in how to improve researchers' mental health in EDR across both academic and non-academic settings through a participatory action research (PAR) approach.
Dr Mary Quinton shares her thoughts on why this research is needed:
“With the expansive range of emotionally demanding research undertaken, it is surprising and concerning that no clear guidelines exist for a culture to support researchers’ mental health with the emotional challenges that such research can encompass. This new study emphasizes that there are already many examples of best practices we can learn from that will help promote a more inclusive research culture in academic and non-academic contexts.”
In partnership with Mind, and with the inclusion of an Advisory Group, this study explored and synthesized best practices from world-leading experts across a variety of disciplines and research sectors.
What were the key findings?
Through interviewing a diverse group of 26 individuals experienced in EDR from various backgrounds, including academia, industry, NHS, the charity sector, and peer researchers, three main themes were generated:
The need for a psychologically informed research culture
The study advocates for a psychologically informed approach that addresses the broader emotional support needs of researchers. This approach moves beyond the focus on individual responsibility, such as the expectation to become more resilient. Instead, it places the responsibility on research organizations and those in the broader research culture to provide the necessary resources and support, such as access to appropriate mental health support if required.
Actions and principles in the immediate research environment
Actions such as regular check-ins, debriefs, and clear communication about expectations are vital. Creating well-being plans and setting boundaries for research engagement are also recommended.
Researcher boundaries with the research, others and oneself
Establishing healthy boundaries, including time management and self-care strategies, is essential for researchers to maintain their mental health.
Why is this important?
With the recent increase of co-production and participatory research methods, it is important to understand how to best support all researchers’ mental health, regardless of job role and identities.
Dr Meghan McDonough, a Professor in the Faculty of Kinesiology at the University of Calgary and Advisory Group Member, shares her thoughts on the importance of this research:
"The conversation about researcher mental health is important, particularly for those doing emotionally demanding work. Considering strategies individuals can use, such as self-care, alongside the role of the researcher environment and larger context, is helpful for making changes that support the well-being of researchers."
James Downs, Patient Representative for the Royal College of Psychiatry and Advisory Group Member, highlights why it is important to consider researchers’ mental health across all research contexts:
"Ethical research rightly focuses on participant safety and support, but it’s just as important that it’s ethical for everyone involved—including researchers. With greater co-production, the divide between researcher and participant is increasingly blurred, and ethical responsibilities apply to all contributors. In my experience of mental health research, where personal experiences often shape involvement, I’ve seen the real challenges that can arise for researchers. We need to recognize these complexities and make sure that everyone—whether they are researching or being researched—is properly supported. A truly ethical approach means thinking beyond traditional roles and ensuring research is safe and fair for all involved."
Conclusion
A psychologically informed research culture is essential when conducting emotionally demanding research – in both academic and non-academic contexts and extending to the broader research environment such as conference organisers and research funders. The study highlights a need to shift towards a more inclusive culture for all researchers, regardless of method, discipline, or sector.
You can access the paper (open access) here: [Full article: Best practices for supporting researchers’ mental health in emotionally demanding research across academic and non-academic contexts]
References:
Quinton, M. L., Shepherd, K., Cumming, J., Tidmarsh, G., Dauvermann, M., Griffiths, L., Reynard, S., Skeate, A.; Fernandes, A.; Choucair, T.; Downs, J.; Harrison Dening, K.; McDonough, M.H; Mitchell, L.; Rhind, D. J. A., & Tresadern, C. (2025). Best practices for supporting researchers’ mental health in emotionally demanding research across academic and non-academic contexts. International journal of qualitative studies in health and well-being. https://doi.org/10.1080/17482631.2025.2464380.
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Also see below for some resources and networks on supporting researcher mental health in EDR:
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