RESEARCHERS at Edinburgh University have found that students’ mental health may be tied to their approach to learning.
Experts say changing the way students are given feedback could help them adopt a more appropriate and positive mindset, and improve their psychological wellbeing.
The team in Edinburgh found that students who believed their level of intelligence was fixed showed signs of poorer mental health.
The students scored lower on five out of six areas of psychological well-being compared with those who believed that their intelligence could be improved.
Previous studies have found that students’ mindset relating to intelligence is influenced by the type of praise given by parents and teachers, as well as the way in which they are assessed.
The research suggests altering feedback and assessment styles to promote a positive outlook on learning may tackle mental health problems among students.
Mental health problems such as depression and anxiety are becoming more common among UK university students.
The number of students seeking counselling has risen by almost a third in the last four years.
Researchers at the university’s Royal School of Veterinary Studies used a questionnaire to assess mindset and psychological well-being in 148 veterinary students. Vets are particularly susceptible to mental health problems and are four times more likely to take their own lives than the general population.
The study is published in the Journal of Veterinary Medical Education.
Rachel Whittington, lecturer in Professional Studies at the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, said: “We’re interested in how we can give our students and graduates the best chances of a fulfilling and successful career while promoting positive psychological wellbeing.”
Earlier this month, the president of NUS Scotland warned that students with mental health issues are in danger of dropping out of college due to difficulties in getting referred for treatment.
Vonnie Sandlan said exams, deadlines and financial difficulties had been identified as the main triggers of mental distress.Worries about accommodation, relationships and finding employment both temporary and on graduating are also sources of anxiety.
However, Sandlan said many students faced problems accessing treatment because by the time they reach the top of the waiting list on the health board covering their university area they have gone home when term ends.
She added: “If students don’t have access to the support they need as they approach exams, their academic performance could be affected or they could end up leaving education altogether. We cannot take away from the hard work of university staff.”
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