Abstract
Mad Academics: Mental Health Autoethnography
Author(s): Kathryn Burrows*This paper explores the emerging field of mental health autoethnography in academia, examining its potential to challenge stigma, foster understanding and contribute to identity development. Through a comprehensive review of autoethnographic works by academics with mental health conditions, the study investigates the complex interplay between personal experiences and broader societal contexts. The paper addresses key themes including stigma, identity formation and the challenges of disclosure in academic settings.
The paper highlights how autoethnographic approaches allow scholars to navigate the delicate balance between personal vulnerability and professional identity, often serving as acts of resistance against traditional mental health narratives. It examines various methodological approaches, from collaborative autoethnographies to more experimental forms and their ef fectiveness in conveying the nuanced experiences of living with mental illness in academia.
The paper reveals that while mental health autoethnographies offer powerful tools for advocacy and personal growth, they also present significant risks, including potential professional repercussions and the re-traumatization of authors. The paper concludes by emphasizing the transformative potential of these narratives in destigmatizing mental illness within academic institutions and beyond, calling for more inclusive and supportive environments that value diverse mental health experiences.
This review contributes to the growing body of literature on mental health in academia, offering insights into the complex decision-making processes surrounding disclosure and the potential of autoethnography as a method for both personal healing and broader social change.