An increasing number of the student body is seeking mental health support while in college. In this case, clear evidence is needed of the best configuration of support services for students. Most evaluations of these services have focused on counseling, with little evaluation of low-intensity support services, such as non-clinical mental health and wellbeing teams or accommodation wellbeing support. the student body.
This qualitative study, Student mental health support: A qualitative evaluation of new well-being services at a UK universityaddresses that gap, examining the experiences of students and staff at new wellness advisors (‘well-being advisers’) in academic departments and university residences at a UK university. The work was carried out in 2018, marking a step change in the provision of social support. At a methodological level, the authors of this study use a reflective thematic analysis with data collected in 40 focus groups and interviews approximately 18 months after the launch of the service. The analysis led to the identification of five themes: trusted friend; Joint approach; Proactive versus reactive; Belonging; and My university cares.
‘Wellbeing advisors’ offered timely, low-intensity support as a reachable and accessible addition to academic, clinical and online provision. However, evidence showed operational challenges, such as data sharing between academic, professional and support services staff. The volume of students seeking support also appeared to compromise resources allocated to preventative and community development work, particularly in student accommodation.
Concerns persisted for students who do not seek help, and findings underscore the importance of issues of belonging, connection, and representation in relation to supporting well-being. According to the study authors, this highly visible investment in well-being appeared to shift a negative cultural narrative that was undermining student and staff confidence toward one of greater security in support.
The conclusions presented in this article have implications for the configuration of student support services and emphasize the importance of a comprehensive approach to university well-being. More and more students will resort to these services for their physical and mental balance in the academy, and universities are already beginning to take action on the matter.
