Students must know help is on hand

The high number of students seeking help from counselling services is a clear cause for concern. Many of our brightest and best young people head to local universities and it is heartbreaking to think so many of them are struggling with mental health issues.

Leaving home to attend university should be one of life’s great experiences — but it is far from easy.

For many it can prove to be a traumatic time and it is essential that help is on hand for those who, for whatever reason, struggle to adapt to university life.

Of course, the high numbers may not necessarily be an indicator of a worsening situation. Universities Scotland are quite right to point out that it could also be the result of an increased confidence among young people to seek help rather than suffer in silence,

What is of paramount importance is that help is on hand when students need it.

The Scottish Government has pledged to act toward ensuring such an outcome, pointing out that a new mental health strategy will “improve intervention and ensure better access”.

These are vital factors.

Young people should be able to attend institutions of further education in full confidence that, should they encounter problems, prompt and appropriate help is available.