Mental health conditions

The term 'mental health conditions' is an umbrella term used to describe a range of diagnoses and support requirements, which may be long-term and may be fluctuating.

The stigma experienced by people with such conditions is considerable and is likely to impact on their ability to discuss their conditions with those around them.

The diagnoses likely to be covered by this label will include anxiety, depression, bipolar affective disorder (formerly manic depression), eating disorders, and schizophrenia.

For further information, see the Student support website.

The impact of a mental health condition will vary from individual to individual and will depend upon a range of factors including time since diagnosis, and support available. Students with mental health conditions may need support in the following areas:

• Fatigue: medication may increase fatigue in the mornings and a change in medication may mean a student has additional difficulties in the interim period
• Anxiety, including social anxiety
• Poor concentration
• Low mood
• Auditory and visual hallucinations: these are less common but may also impact on concentration

Many principles of inclusive teaching are beneficial for students with mental health conditions. Here are some particular examples:

• Timetables to take account of medication needs and appointments for support
• Well-structured lectures and supervisions so that if concentration is poor the student can easily find their place again
• Deadlines in advance and clearly described academic tasks
• Provide legible written feedback, including good points and aspects requiring further development. This is useful to the student as it avoids the need to record feedback while discussing it and provides a helpful reference.
• Firm management of group discussions to manage any difficult conversations. This helps to reduce any anxiety felt by the student about taking part.