University Mental Health Day

It’s University Mental Health Day today (Thursday 9 March).

One in six people will experience a mental health problem at work this year, according to the mental health charity Mind.

Being aware of the challenges of mental ill health is important, and last month, 10 colleagues shared their own stories, as a start of an open conversation about mental health.

To help promote positive mental health here is a reminder of the various wellbeing offerings you can access at Reading.

There are also resources to help you advise students who may ask for support.

Health and Wellbeing hub

The Health and Wellbeing pages are full of resources and advice for colleagues. Find out about about the University's commitment to health and wellbeing, and read about some simple steps you can take to improve wellbeing day-to-day. Colleagues can also access cost of living support, and benefit from cheaper hot meals at Eat at the Square and Park Eat. 

Employee Assistance Programme

The University provides an Employee Assistance Programme, which is an independent, free, confidential support and counselling service which is run by CiC and is called Confidential Care.

Confidential help is available 24/7.

CiC also have a number of useful helpsheets and host monthly webinars. March’s session takes place at 13:00 on 13 March, and looks at mental health in young people. To sign up, visit the Events pages.

Wellbeing Peer Support

This network of trained staff volunteers is a first point of contact if you are experiencing poor wellbeing, a mental health issue or emotional distress.

They are trained to recognise the signs and symptoms of common mental health issues, and can guide you toward the right support services. They are not there to diagnose or counsel but to provide initial confidential support and information.

Visit the Wellbeing Peer Support Network page for more details. 

Training and development

People Development offer plenty of courses to help build resilience and avoid stress. Upcoming courses include:

• Mental Health in the workplace (any time)
• Mental Well-being and Resilience (any time)
• Financial Wellbeing for Colleagues (29 March)

Browse UoRLearn for more courses.

Supporting students

One in four students nationally has reported a diagnosed mental health issue. Colleagues working with students can often find themselves in a position of offering wellbeing support.

A round up of the support services available to students is on Student Essentials.

If you’re particularly concerned about a student who may be at acute risk, the Student Welfare Team has produced one-page guidance with information on how to support and advise students in an emergency.