Student mental health
The coronavirus pandemic has presented students with unprecedented challenges and pressures, and student mental health is now a growing concern. The isolation some students have been facing has affected their study pattern, but also the way they socialise and interact. With growing concern surrounding this, England’s universities are calling on the government to put more funding into student mental health.
The effects of lockdown
During lockdown in March online student community ‘the student room’ said the number of suicide-related posts needing support jumped 87%. This worrying figure has highlighted just how fragile some students are, and that student mental health has deteriorated drastically. In addition to this, conversations around anxiety and depression increased by more than 77% on the site. Last month, Lily Arkwright, a 19-year-old student from Cardiff University, took her own life on a visit home to Shropshire. This shocking and devastating news reflects just how serious student mental health is, and how support must be given immediately.
Counselling and well-being support
There are many organisations in the UK that provide amazing support for students. Mental health charity MIND offers support on how to cope with student life, especially during these tough times. MIND say that students are at higher risk of developing mental health problems. Research shows many students first experience mental health problems or first seek help when they are at university. They also say ‘Coping with new challenges can have an impact on your mental health. But there are lots of things that you can do to make your time as a student easier and more enjoyable.’
Where to get help
One of the first places students can go for support is their own university. Firstly, look on the intranet and look for mental health services, support, and counselling. Each university will have their own support network to safeguard students mental health. Alongside this, charities such as MIND, the NHS and Student Minds all offer amazing support. Also, try to reach out to friends and family for support, often opening up to those around you can really help.
Are you a student at the UEA and your looking for support? If so visit their wellbeing service today.