Mental Health, Learning, and Studying Juha Nieminen Study psychologist University of Helsinki

Themes 1)What does a study psychologist do? 2)Institutional shortcomings met by students with mental health problems 3)Individual psychological challenges 4)What kind of support is needed? 5)Questions and discussion

What does a study psychologist do? Areas of expertise: Study skills and -strategies Self-regulation, metacognitive skills Motivation and achievement Time management, stress reduction Studying and well-being Student identity and relations with learning environment Work with individual students, groups, and teachers

Basic Philosophy Many challenges are similar for all students –Students are often unaware of how common their experiences are –Intensity of problems may vary Some students require more intensive support than others Everyone’s situation is slightly different

Experiences of failure result in Lowered sense of competence Studies coloured with negative emotions Often a complicated relationship with learning environment (teachers, peers)  May lead to avoidance of study-related tasks and people  Sense of isolation, shame, lack of trust

What does a student need? Encouragement Help with making a realistic study plan Practice, positive experiences, ”my efforts are productive” Moments of focussed work A negative cycle of thoughts, emotions and behaviour can be turned to a positive one

SMART goals S pecific M easurable A ttractive/ Acceptable R ealistic T ime-bound

Studying and Well-Being Studies should never be the only important thing in one’s life –Different aspects of life support each other –Overly significant goals are difficult to attain A good day of studying is like a good day of work: set times for both work and free time Every fifteen minutes of work is a step forward -- the importance of rewarding oneself for efforts Social support goes a long way

Institutional Challenges Part-time studying –Financial support based on full-time presence –Some programs have little flexibility –In some faculties personalized arrangements are easier Support and guidance are fragmented –Getting information and guidance demands lots of effort and patience