We are running online Transition to University and Beyond workshops for year 13+ students, this September.
This 60-minute session provides an overview of stress biology, its cumulative effects, and practical strategies for managing stress. It also addresses the critical shift in duty of care between schools and universities, often overlooked by students and families. In addition, this talk will also explore what we need to know about starting medication while at university.
Sessions for parents and year 13+ students will provide essential tips and strategies to boost confidence in managing university life. They focus on proactive well-being support, equipping students to handle challenges and develop a backup plan. Unlike traditional transition talks, these sessions address often-overlooked well-being topics, encouraging ongoing conversations.
The session will cover:
- The biology of stress and quick relief strategies
- Options for help and including a named adult in their wellness journey
- Exploration into the students concerns and tips for addressing them
- The risks of medications like antidepressants, which can list suicidal thoughts as a side-effect
- How to use Safe Plans and Prescription Safe Plans for added protection
Why this is important:
- Students will be responsible for managing their well-being independently
- GDPR regulations limit parental involvement in their care
- With many students starting medication that lists suicidal thoughts as a side effect, while away from those who would typically support and advocate for them, students are at increased risk for suicide
- This session helps students establish support networks and safety plans in advance
- The goal is to ensure they are better prepared and supported if challenges arise
Outcomes:
- Students will explore the biology of stress and tips to restore balance
- Gain clarity on the legal aspects of ‘Duty of Care’ and GDPR and who that impacts university students
- Learn about the ‘opt in’ process offered by some universities that facilitate contacting a named adult if unwell and what to do if your university doesn’t offer such a scheme (most don’t).
- Better able to recognise medication side effects that could affect their well-being or a friend’s and know how to respond
- Understand Safe Plans and Prescription Safe Plans and how to use them
