The University of Buckingham explains why it is establishing itself as a positive place to learn in light of student mental health
It wouldn?t be an exaggeration to say that mental health problems at universities are currently at crisis point. With more than 15,000 UK-based first-year students admitting to having some form of mental health condition (as found in a 2017 survey by the Institute for Public Policy Research), figures demonstrate that there are almost five times as many young people experiencing problems than there were 10 years ago.
It was also revealed that 94% of UK higher education providers have experienced a rise in demand for counselling services, while only 29% are in possession of an explicit strategy on student mental health and wellbeing. It?s clear that more needs to be done to reduce the risks, which is why the University of Buckingham has adopted a new approach that helps staff and students feel happier and more engaged with learning, and develop a purpose in their lives while studying and beyond.
An intellectual revolution
As the first ?positive university? in Europe, this venture is inspired by the intellectual revolution initiated by Professor Martin Seligman at the University of Pennsylvania. When Seligman noted that not enough research was being developed on mental wellness, he outlined a framework called PERMA, which focuses on positive emotions; engagement; relationships; meaning; and accomplishments.
After performing extensive work with w...