Promoting Wellbeing in Higher Education:A Comprehensive Guide for Students and Academic Staff

Abstract

The growing prevalence of mental health challenges among students and academic staff highlights the urgent need for institutional approaches that transcend reactive support. This presentation introduces a comprehensive, evidence-informed 100+ page Guide on Mental Health in Higher Education, designed to empower universities to cultivate supportive, inclusive, and resilient academic communities. Developed through an extensive collaborative co-design methodology involving key stakeholders, the guide outlines actionable strategies, policy recommendations, and sustainable practices tailored to the distinct needs of both learners and educators. Grounded in a whole-institution framework, the resource addresses critical touchpoints including prevention, early intervention, stigma reduction, and systemic culture change. Attendees will gain insight into the guide’s conceptual framework, co-design process, and strategic implementation pathways, equipping higher education leaders and practitioners with practical frameworks to embed mental health and wellbeing directly into the core of academic life.