In today’s fast-paced educational environment, students are often overwhelmed by the pressures of academic achievement, shifting social roles, and personal responsibilities. The challenges of managing rent, evolving social expectations, and balancing academic and personal goals can lead to heightened anxiety and a significant decline in students' quality of life. My thesis explores the critical role of social support and expert guidance in helping students navigate these transformative periods. It highlights the urgent need for accessible mental health resources on campus, which can make a tangible difference in student well-being.
ULMHS (University Life Mental Health Support) Service is designed to address this need by embedding a comprehensive mental health support system directly into campus life. Through an innovative integration with a Discord server, the service fosters a virtual community where students can easily access expert-reviewed resources, self-help guides, and mental wellness programs. This includes free counselling services, mental health courses, and active wellness programs that are often scattered and underutilised.
The platform not only serves as a one-stop-shop for these critical resources but also encourages peer interaction, allowing students to share their experiences, offer support, and recommend services that have been helpful to them. The website extension of this service caters to those who may prefer a more private approach, offering the same expert-compiled resources without the need to join the server.
By publishing my thesis on a website, I aim to extend the reach of these vital findings and resources, making them accessible to a broader audience. This online presence will also facilitate continuous feedback, ensuring that the service evolves to meet the ever-changing needs of students. My work contributes to the broader discourse on mental health in education, offering practical solutions that can significantly enhance student well-being.