Policies across countries are striving to support the mental health needs of young adults and promote inclusive higher education. There is a lack of evidence on the challenges faced by Students with Mental Health Conditions (SwMHC) and the available support at Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs). This study aimed to explore the challenges faced by SwMHC in higher education, available support, and the utilization of institutional support services. A qualitative phenomenological approach and purposeful sampling were used to understand the experiences of SwMHC. Ten participants were interviewed online, by telephone, or face-to-face, based on their preference. Most participants were diagnosed with a mental illness, and three participants were diagnosed with a neurodevelopmental condition. Data were collected between August 2024 and June 2025 and transcribed and coded simultaneously. Qualitative data analysis was conducted using Atlas.ti version 25. Qualitative data analysis gave rise to 435 codes,10 categories, and three themes: (a) sailing through a sea of challenges; (b) supports to stay afloat; and (c) portrait of an inclusive and supportive institution. SwMHC face multiple academic and social challenges in HEIs. Institutional support services play a major role in creating an enabling and supportive environment for SwMHC. The study findings can inform institutional practices and educational policies.