Navigating Academic Burnout: An Interdisciplinary Study on Mental Health, Productivity, and Institutional Support among PhD Students

Abstract

PhD students often face intense academic pressure, prolonged isolation, and uncertain career prospects, making them especially vulnerable to burnout and mental health challenges. This interdisciplinary study examines the intersection of psychology, education, and organizational behavior to analyze factors contributing to academic burnout in doctoral researchers. Using a mixed-methods approach that combines survey data, interviews, and institutional policy reviews across multiple universities, the study highlights key stressors, coping mechanisms, and the role of supervisor-mentee dynamics. It further evaluates the impact of institutional support systems on student well-being and productivity. The findings underscore the need for integrated mental health strategies within doctoral programs and advocate for evidence-based policy reforms to foster a more sustainable research environment.