Supervising Students with Mental Health Conditions A workshop for higher degree by research supervisors Counsellors, Student Engagement Unit

Implications of a Mental Health condition on study Most students study effectively most of the time Mental health conditions fluctuate Some students may benefit from additional assistance

Implications of a Mental Health condition on study Study commitments may not be met due to –Concentration and/or memory –Motivation –Attitude to study –Non-attendance (eg hospitalisation, exacerbation of condition) –Medication issues

Suggestions If a student has difficulty with planning or organising their research –Break tasks down into ‘parts’ to prevent feeling overwhelmed –Focus on a few ‘parts’ at a time –Discuss how to do them –Keep in regular contact with student –Research Education staff in TIU can assist students

Indicators of Distress in Students BehavioursExamples of what to look for Absenteeism and going ‘off the radar’Non-attendance, non-participation Procrastination, reduced motivationInability to take steps (eg extensions) Upset and crying, pessimism or reduced confidence Obvious display of tears, reduced eye contact, self criticism, negative Anxiety Non-attendance or avoidance, fidgeting, worried Erratic behaviour and/or aggressionVerbal abruptness, fidgeting or restless Depression Discouraged, hopeless, sad, deterioration in appearance, talking about ending it all Over-reliance on SupervisorSelf disclosure, excessive contact

Suggestions If you are concerned about a student you could say –Are you okay? –I don’t want to be intrusive, but I just want to ask you how you’re going? –I’ve been a bit concerned about you. I’m wondering how you’re travelling. –I’ve noticed some change(s) in.....

Responding to Students Stay calm particularly in crises situations Clarify what is most concerning them right now Consider what you can do and be clear and consistent with students Maintain professional boundaries Consider what others can do (eg Counsellor in the Student Engagement Unit) and refer Follow up with the student

How to refer students Give the student a card or brochure for the SEU Counselling Service and/or Disability Service Suggest the student call the SEU on their home campus Offer to call the SEU to make an appointment for the student or bring them in to make appointment Provide details of UnisaMedical for referral to GPUnisaMedical For Urgent referrals bring the student into SEU or contact Security

Self care strategies Ask an experienced colleague or supervisor for advice Debrief with someone if you’ve encountered a challenging situation at work Look after yourself including regular exercise, healthy eating and adequate rest

Self care strategies Have realistic expectations of yourself Have a routine Support available for staff –Speak with a Counsellor about the student –Resources on Counselling websiteResources on Counselling website –Mental Health First Aid TrainingMental Health First Aid Training –Broomhall and Young (Employee Assistance Program)Broomhall and Young

Contacting the SEU City East City West Magill Mawson Lakes