Student mental health policy launched at UCC

University College Cork’s new Student Mental Health Policy was launched today (January 15) by Mr John Moloney, Minister for Equality, Disability and Mental Health.
From the press release:
The university is aware that many people experience a period of mental distress or mental illness at some stage in their lives. Changes and challenges face students in a new environment and it is in this context that the university saw the need to have a coherent framework and supportive administrative procedures in place to assist the promotion of mental well-being in UCC.
Launching the Policy, the Minister for Equality, Disability and Mental Health, Mr John Moloney said: “As Minister of State for Disability and Mental Health, one of my main priorities is to eliminate social exclusion, stigmatisation and discrimination of the mentally ill and create a culture and environment where people in distress feel they can seek help from family, friends and health professionals. Both students and teachers can play a vital role by identifying early warning signs of an emerging mental health issue and encouraging the young person to seek help as soon as possible.”
It is hoped that the new Policy will help improve the Student Experience for all students attending UCC and so allow them fulfil their personal, social and academic potential.