Grand Challenges in Student Mental Health
The 2011 report from the Royal College of Psychiatrists drew attention to the fact that university students are at particular risk of developing mental health problems, and face specific challenges in accessing appropriate support. Research has estimated that around 29% of students experience mental distress, however there is considerable variability in prevalence statistics.
About Grand Challenges
This research project was designed as a first step to begin to understand where efforts to improve the state of student mental health might be directed. By asking current and recent university students, along with university staff (including mental health advisors, university counsellors and academic teaching staff) several key challenges facing student mental health were identified.
Thematic analysis was used to identify 13 themes:
Thematic analysis was used to identify 13 themes:
- Academic pressure and concerns about future employability.
- Study skills and support.
- The university academic environment.
- Life skills and personal development.
- Accessing support through the NHS.
- Accessing support in general.
- Structures for pastoral support and mentoring.
- Managing the transition to university.
- University lifestyle.
- relationships.
- Coordinating responsibility for student mental health and wellbeing.
- Campaign messages and public attitudes.
- International students.
