The mental health of students in higher education has been
highlighted in recent years because of a progressive increase in
the number of students presenting to college counselling services,
and in the apparent severity of their mental health problems.
Higher education institutions already make considerable
provision for the well-being of their students. Most have
sophisticated pastoral and counselling services in place, and there
are numerous examples of good practice in identifying and
supporting students with mental health problems.
NHS facilities, both in primary care and specialist mental
health services, also have a significant role to play in working
with universities and colleges to address these needs. However NHS
mental health provision for students is variable, and there are
sometimes obstacles to access and the continuity of care. Despite
their intellectual abilities and potential for advancement,
students with mental health problems are a disadvantaged
population. The current modernisation of mental health services
offers an opportunity to improve facilities for them.
The Royal College of Psychiatrists has investigated this
complex subject, and its findings are contained in this report. Its
aim is to review the nature, prevalence and causes of students’
mental health problems, to review existing services, and to present
recommendations for the development of strategic policy and best
clinical practice. The recommendations will be of interest to
students and higher education institutions, but are aimed primarily
at those who commission and provide mental health services.
CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
- The number of students presenting with symptoms of mental
ill-health has increased in recent years, as has the number of
students presenting with more severe mental health problems. Drug
and alcohol misuse is a serious and growing concern.
- Students report increased mental health
symptoms compared with age-matched controls, but there is
no evidence to confirm that students are more likely to suffer
mental illness.
- Higher education is associated with significant stressors,
including the emotional demands of transition from home and school
to the less structured environment of college, independent study
and examinations, and financial pressures. While stress is not
pathological in itself, these factors may contribute to the higher
rate of emotional symptomatology among students.
- Mental health problems in students may be seriously disruptive
to their education and emotional development.
- Students in higher education are at no higher risk of suicide
than the general population, and may be at lower risk.
- The increased numbers of students seeking help with mental
health problems may reflect:
- The increasing numbers of students entering higher
education;
- The progressive approximation of the characteristics of the
student population to the general population;
- The increasing willingness of young people to seek help for a
range of emotional and mental health problems.
- University counselling services are the primary mental health
care option for many students, and should be resourced
accordingly.
- Nationally agreed policies should be developed to ensure
continuity of mental health care between the student’s home area
and the university, and to preclude conflicts between home and
college NHS providers about funding.
- Local networks should be developed to ensure shared policies
and co-operation between colleges, primary care services, mental
health services, and other relevant agencies.