STUDENT ASSISTANCE AND RETENTION IN HIGHER EDUCATION: CONTRIBUTIONS OF PSYCHOLOGICAL SUPPORT TO WELL-BEING AND ACADEMIC TRAJECTORY

Abstract

This article aimed to review the contributions of psychological support offered within student assistance programs to the well-being and retention of students in Brazilian public higher education. Considering the expansion of university access and the socioeconomic and academic vulnerabilities faced by students, the importance of student assistance policies as a retention strategy was discussed. The methodology consisted of an integrative bibliographic review, selecting studies published in the last decade in recognized databases. The main findings indicate that psychological support plays a relevant role in promoting mental health, coping with psychological suffering, and enhancing academic trajectories. It is concluded that the multidisciplinary nature of student assistance, with emphasis on Psychology, is fundamental in ensuring student retention and success.