Supporting students with their mental health

Mental health specialists from Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (EPUT) are now based on campus at the University of Essex to support students.

A small team of nurses and an occupational therapist work from the health centre on the university’s Colchester campus to assess students’ mental health needs and help them access support and treatment.

They work closely with a GP and the university’s wellbeing team to ensure students are supported throughout their studies, particularly those who may be away from home and their familiar support networks of family and friends.

The team also attends student events to raise awareness of the mental health support services available on campus.

Today (14 March) they are attending a University Mental Health Day event organised to showcase the wellbeing services available through the university and external partners.

George Davidson, Associate Director of North East Essex Community and Dementia Services at EPUT, said: “University is a time of fun and excitement but it can also be a difficult time for some, particularly students who are away from home. Loneliness, combined with exam and financial pressures, can impact mental health.“We work closely with our partners at the university and across the health and care system to make sure students feel supported, know help is available and how to access it if they find themselves struggling.”

The EPUT team is also providing specialist training to help university staff recognise students who may be struggling and encourage them to reach out for help.