Students welcome MSP’s commitment to tackle mental health
Following a parliamentary reception to launch NUS Scotland’s latest research report – Breaking the Silence – into mental health issues amongst students NUS Scotland has welcomed the commitment of Mark Griffin MSP to work within the current parliament to tackle the issues raised by the report. It is estimated that 1 in 4 people will experience mental health problems at some point in their lives, meaning over 14,000 students from Central Scotland could be experiencing some level of mental ill-health. NUS Scotland’s new report comes after the Royal College of Psychiatrists released research showing a worrying increase in demand for mental health services from students at colleges and university.
Speaking after the launch, Mark said:
“I very much welcome the research undertaken by NUS Scotland, and the important issues which it brings into focus. Within my own region there are 58,600 students, meaning up to 14,650 thousand students could potentially suffer from some level of mental health issues. Clearly something must be done and I would like to see student mental health specifically considered in the Scottish Government forthcoming mental health strategy.
“It was great to meet with students and representatives from the NUS who are working hard to tackle these issues. It’s clear that students are leading the way in tackling the problem head on, and I have pledged my unstinting support.”
Graeme Kirkpatrick, Depute President of NUS Scotland, added:
“What the research has shown us is that students are extremely susceptible to poor mental health, and this is a real worry, especially given the stresses and pressures we know that goes in hand with studying. It’s a matter which requires action by institutions and government, working in partnership.”
RSS