Students' mental health tackled by university
October 20 2008
Southampton Solent University has strengthened its support for students with mental health difficulties – with a weekly surgery run by a Primary Care Mental Health Practitioner, a new mental health policy, and the launch of free weekly relaxation sessions for students.
To celebrate the launch of the new policy, a mental health awareness week is being held on the university's campus this week (October 20-24). Students are being offered yoga, massage, blood pressure checks and even stress-busting sessions on a Nintendo Wii.
The week underlines Southampton Solent University's introduction of its mental health policy, designed to help students get greater support for a range of psychological and psychiatric issues.
As well as information and advice through Students 1st, a counselling service and multi-faith chaplaincy, it now offers hypnotherapy and an NHS practitioner trained to deal with students with mental health problems.
The policy - spanning all areas of University life from academic pressures, through to residences and support services - was developed by a University Mental Health Policy working group led by its Counselling service, to provide information and guidance for staff, students and other stakeholders in the University community.
It includes advice for staff on recognising the signs of mental illness – ranging from eating disorders to anxiety and schizophrenia - to appropriate ways of providing help and support.
Student Advice Manager, Alison Golden, said: "Keeping an eye out for students' mental well-being is pivotal if they are to they have a positive experience during their university life.
"At this time, particularly, students are experiencing the highs and lows of starting a new academic year – including meeting new friends, moving into new accommodation and managing finances and academic pressures. Looking after their mental well-being is as important as making sure they are eating enough and paying the rent."
There will be various information stands and events from 20 – 24 October at the university with literature, resources and goodies for students to take away.
On Wednesday, in the Michael Andrews Concourse (East Park Terrace), Sport Solent and Occupational Health will be offering five-minute massages and health checks, and Nintendo Wii sessions to relieve tension. New student weekly relaxation sessions will also be launched on the day.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT THE PRESS OFFICE ON 023 8031 9040