How to support students and their mental health

04/03/21

Students may be facing economic, social and academic pressures that influence their wellbeing. You could be the first person whom they disclose this sensitive issue.

On average, three-quarters of adults will experience the first symptoms of mental illness by age 24. Early intervention can make a great difference, preventing early signs from developing into severe and complex issues. Whatever your role, there are many ways in which you can help them.

Spotting a student who might need support

You can support students by making sure they feel heard and have their concerns validated.

But equally, it is very helpful to be able to:

Recognise when they could benefit from specialist support
Identify a crisis situation when immediate action is required.

In some cases, you may not notice any symptoms. However, for most students, you can begin to recognise small changes or have a feeling that ‘something is not right’.

Some of the common signs that a student might mention, suggesting they may be in need of further support, include:

Sleep or appetite changes.
Changes in mood or appearance.
Drop-in functioning – this may be reduced attendance or assignments being handed in late or not at all.
Problems with concentration – students who may stare at a computer for hours and not getting anything done.
Increase in alcohol consumption or drug use.
Depression, anxiety or panic attacks.

Signs of a potential crisis include:

A student mentioning suicidal thoughts, along with plans and the means to act on these, or immediate plans to harm themselves.
A student mentioning an intention to harm others.
Extreme emotional distress.

How to talk about mental health and wellbeing

Listen and communicate non-judgementally

It is important students are able to express their concerns without fear of judgement or unfair treatment.

Listen to hear and understand

You are not expected to have all the answers, but to reassure the student that effective help is available.

Do not promise to keep information confidential

If the student makes comments that indicate a potential risk of harm to themselves or others, including suicidal thoughts, do not agree to keep this confidential.