Implications for practice and research

• Mental health problems are prevalent in university students; but common disorders, such as depression and anxiety, respond to treatment

• The question remains of who is responsible for delivering interventions, and how best to deliver these

• Universities should consider preventative options, such as reducing cohort sizes, to enhance sense of community

Context

There is a mental health crisis in university students, with mental health problems becoming increasingly prevalent.1–3 Previously, it was thought that being a university student was a protective factor for mental health (as it was predominantly the economically stable who attended). However, as more access higher education, mental health prevalence in students is changing; arguably becoming more representative of the general population.1 This, alongside increasing performance-related and financial worries, …