149 148 “You can promote the positive message that asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but a strength of humility.” SPEAKING OPENLY ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH, ENCOURAGING MENTAL SUPPORT AND HELP-SEEKING People are too afraid to admit that they are struggling with mental health issues. The social stigma and the fear of being judged leave them isolated with little support or help. The former President of Cornell University, David J. Skorton, urged his students in an email and also in Spring 2010 with a full-page ad in their student newspaper: “Your well-being is the foundation on which your success is built. If you learn anything at Cornell, please learn to ask for help. It is a sign of wisdom and strength.” You can promote the positive message that asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but a strength of humility. You can also help students feel more comfortable by talking naturally about everyday mental well-being. Students could strive for success and actualize their dreams while they have a support network for sharing personal stories of both good and challenging times. References Cornell community reacts to recent student deaths. (2010, March 14). The Cornell Daily Sun. Retrieved from http://cornellsun.com/2010/03/14/cornell-community-reacts-to-recentstudent-deaths/ After 3 suspected suicides, Cornell reaches out. (2010, March 10). The New York Times. Retrieved from https://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/17/education/17cornell.html Chapter Seven: What Faculty and Staff Can Do Chapter Seven: What Faculty and Staff Can Do You may also consider including the following reminder in your course syllabus: Mental Well-being and Counseling Support As a university student you may experience the following which cause short-term or persistent impairments on your studying and daily functioning: • Difficulty in concentration • Lack of motivation • Loneliness • Low mood or depression • Relationship tension • Sexual orientation • Sleep disturbances • Social anxiety • Study stress and anxiety • Trauma and abuse If you are suffering from any of these conditions, you are encouraged to consider meeting with a Student Counselor. The personal counseling service is available on campus and the counseling discussion will be kept confidential. With professional guidance and advice, Student Counselors can help you discover your personal strengths and potentials, approach problems constructively, learn to make favourable adjustments and develop adaptive coping strategies for your personal concerns. To make an appointment: http://counsel.ust.hk 24/7 HEARing helpline*: (852) 8208 2688 *A 24-hour helpline that supports exclusively all HKUST students 7 days a week, and is made available by our Counselors in collaboration with the Christian Family Service Center.
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