Legal News
Students at Risk of Mental Health Issues (4 October 2011)
Date: 04/10/2011
Psychiatrists have warned that the latest generation of students are at an increased risk of developing mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, than generations of students before them. The Royal College of Psychiatrists (RCP) claims that in increasing numbers of university students come from less privileged backgrounds and are less prepared for the stress of university life. Students also face increasing debt and uncertain job prospects, doctors have warned. The concern is ever greater as universities are likely to consider cuts to counselling and support services as a means to save money.
Dr. John Callender, who co-authored the report into the mental health of students, claimed that many students had to find employment and work long hours in addition to their full-time academic studies. Dr. Callender noted that many students receive less support from family than in years gone by. He also said that students experienced intense social pressures in relation to living away from home and attempting to live up to the expectations that their student years will be happy and sociable.
Around four per cent of university students seek counselling services for support and recent research indicates that these vital services are under increasing pressure. Some universities are investing in their support services, in recognition that students who drop out of their course will suffer from damaged career prospects and result in universities losing fees. The RCP wants academic staff to receive greater training and GPs to receive greater incentives for running dedicated health services specifically for students.
Duncan Lewis’ mental health law solicitors assist clients suffering from mental health problems who are being compulsorily detained under the Mental Health Act 1983.