Indirect influences of DEI initiatives on Black college students’ mental health through school climate and sense of belonging

Objective: This study investigated how diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives influence Black college students’ campus experiences and mental health. Methods: A secondary analysis was conducted with data from 1,061 Black college students who completed the Healthy Minds Network survey with measures of DEI initiatives at the student’s institution, school climate (including perceptions of antiracism and fair treatment on campus), school belonging, and mental health problems (including depression, anxiety, loneliness, and suicidal ideation). Results: A structural equation modeling analysis revealed a significant serial indirect effect, whereby greater DEI initiatives were associated with a more positive school climate, which was positively related to school belonging, which was linked to fewer mental health problems among Black students. Conclusions: These findings contribute to the existing literature suggesting that DEI initiatives promote a more inclusive school environment, which can improve school belonging while contributing to more positive mental health outcomes for Black students.