Students are waiting as long as three months for mental health support
Research released today by ex-health minister Sir Norman Lamb, found that students at UK universities are having to wait up to three months for mental health care.
The information was obtained through a number of Freedom of Information requests, and showed that the Royal College of Music in London had the longest wait times - with some students waiting 84 days to be seen by someone.
Edinburgh Napier University saw a wait of 57 days, Royal College of Art in London sat at 56 days and Bristol University, which has seen a string of suicides in the last few years had an average wait time of 52 days.
Student mental health and wellbeing is an increasingly talked about topic, with many expressing their belief that university counselling services aren't up to scratch at a time when many experience loneliness, panic and uncertainty.
Sir Norman Lamb has expressed concern at the welfare of those experiencing such long wait times for treatment whilst suffering with anxiety and depression, saying that this interim time without support could potentially be damaging.
"Twelve-week delays to start counselling are scandalous, particularly when we know that so many students are taking their own lives…That’s longer than a university term," said Sir Norman Lamb, "It’s extraordinary that some universities are subjecting students to such long waits and failing their student populations so badly.
"Universities with these long waiting times need to remember that students suffering from mental health conditions very often need help as a matter of real urgency. The risk is that their mental welfare will decline even further while they wait and wait for care and support."
If this resonates with you or sounds like someone you know, MIND offer a free advice service over the phone, email or text. The Mix is the UK’s leading support service for young people, offering to listen and offer advice via online, social or a free confidential helpline.
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