Understanding mental health difficulties
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When people refer to mental health, they are usually referring to mental health difficulties. It is important to consider what mental health actually is in order to set mental health difficulties in context. Good mental health isn't just the absence of mental health problems.
It is estimated that up to 1 in 4 people experience mental health difficulties, which cover a very wide spectrum.
- A person may have a diagnosed mental health disorder or may be experiencing a period of mental distress.
- They may be ill for long periods, or their symptoms may be controlled by medication, therapy or other means.
- Mental ill health may be a constant factor in a person’s life, it may recur periodically, or it may be a one-off experience.
Everyone's experience of mental health difficulties is different, and depends on a wide range of factors, such as
- the level and type of mental distress
- the university environment and the support provided
- the people around them - friends, partner, family, tutors, fellow students
- their previous experience of mental distress or illness.
Mind (National Association for Mental Health) has a range of informative factsheets and booklets. Their leaflet 'Understanding Mental Illness' makes some important general points.
The Royal College of Psychiatrists provides information leaflets on mental health topics.
A study into mental health in HE is reported on the Oxford Student Mental Health Network, where you will also find useful information for academic staff on providing appropriate support.
