These are worrying and challenging times. Now, more than ever, it is vital we are aware of our own mental health and how we can support our students.

But for those of us who do not have any specialist training, how can we ensure we know what to look out for and how to help our students in distress?

The Charlie Waller Memorial Trust aims to help people recognise the signs of depression and offer help when they need it. They have developed a free e-learning package for University staff who have little or no experience with supporting students mental wellbeing. It covers:

• signs to look out for
• key skills you will need
• how to support students in crisis
• who else you need to involve

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Who should complete this e-learning?

Everyone! Whatever your role, we all have a part to play when supporting our students. Even if your role might not directly involve interaction with students, you never know if you will be faced with someone, anyone, in need of help. Wouldn’t you feel better knowing you had the skills and knowledge to provide what support you can?

“For students experiencing depression, anxiety, homesickness or low self-esteem, that first conversation can make all the difference – and it’s often non-specialist staff such as personal tutors, porters and cleaning staff who first notice that a student may be in distress.”

CHARLIE WALLER MEMORIAL TRUST WEBSITE

Also make sure you have read the University’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Framework and know what support is available for students. 

By doing so, who knows – you might just make that difference to somebody.

I end this post by expressing my heart-felt hope that you all stay safe and well – take care of yourselves and each other.

Zoe Connell, Digital Learning and Development Advisor