This study explores the intersection between mental health and university social responsibility (USR), focusing on how higher education institutions integrate psychological well-being into their social mission. This study aims to identify trends, challenges and opportunities for fostering inclusion, resilience and equity in university contexts.
A systematic literature review was conducted using Web of Science and Scopus. English and Spanish keywords related to mental health, well-being and USR guided the search. After screening and removing duplicates, 11 articles published between 1970 and 2025 were selected. Thematic analysis was applied, organizing contributions into five categories: student well-being, community health, psychosocial and contractual models, institutional resilience and historical initiatives.
The review reveals that USR initiatives, such as student hubs, arts-based practices, employability support, physical activity programs and university hospitals, contribute significantly to psychological well-being and social cohesion. Theoretical frameworks – including the 4Cs model, social exchange theory, psychosocial models and conservation of resources – highlight how institutional practices influence mental health outcomes. However, gaps remain, including limited longitudinal evidence, insufficient attention to diversity and weak connections with public health policy.
This study reframes mental health as a central component of USR rather than a peripheral service. By integrating mental health into universities’ social contracts, this study underscores the ethical imperative of embedding well-being in higher education strategies. The findings of this study advance interdisciplinary understanding and provide a conceptual foundation for inclusive policies that strengthen resilience, equity and social justice within and beyond university settings.
