Adopting the principles and practices of learning health systems in universities and colleges: recommendations for delivering actionable data to improve student mental health

Despite efforts to address the growing severity and complexity of student mental health issues, challenges persist in data quality and application, thereby hindering progress. This article is built upon three decades of cumulative expertise from the authors, complemented by insights gathered through the extensive observations of students and practitioners within the realm of student mental health. Drawing from both robust evidence and hands-on experience, it presents evidence-based recommendations aimed at enhancing data capture and utilization in alignment with the principles and methodologies of learning health systems. The approach is based on four interconnected themes: (1) Learning from global insights on university students’ mental health; (2) Measuring, monitoring, and managing data; (3) Involving student and stakeholder perspectives; and (4) Mapping transitions, access, and systems for student mental health services. These themes encompass both the individual student journey and the broader organizational layers of universities and colleges. Ten recommendations are made for supporting universities and colleges to move towards adopting the principles of learning health systems to support students’ mental health.