Keeping mental health in Mind
Fri, 31 Mar 2017 02:00:00 BST
For students experiencing depression, anxiety, homesickness or low self-esteem, that first conversation can make all the difference.
For students in distress, the first point of contact is often with non-specialist university staff such as porters, domestic staff, bar staff, security, academic tutors or maintenance staff. The first conversation students have with a member of staff like this can be vital – in ensuring they receive a warm, empathic and understanding response to help them immediately, and that they are then signposted, if necessary, to receive help from a mental health specialist.
Developed by the Charlie Waller Memorial Trust, this new e-learning package is designed to give non-specialist staff the skills, knowledge and confidence to offer this first line of support.
Introduced by well-known TV presenter Alexander Armstrong, the package consists of six, easy-to-follow 20-minute sessions, including:
- Signs to look out for
- Key helping skills
- Knowing who else to involve
- Supporting students at risk or in crisis
Student mental health is a growing area of concern, with increasing numbers of students struggling with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, self-harm and suicide risk. There is no doubt that equipping staff with the necessary skills and confidence will put students in a better position to be supported with their mental health issues at an earlier point.
To find out more access the Charlie Waller Memorial Trust website.
