Our services are evidence-based and shaped by student feedback. These supports can be the difference between staying in a course or dropping out. However, increased demand has put pressure on services, particularly one- on-one counselling. For some students, waiting a few weeks to see a counsellor can be crucial, and emergency appointments can be life-saving. This past summer, Trinity’s SCS became the first university service in Europe to be accredited by the International Accreditation of Counselling Services (IACS), which sets global standards for professional counselling. Achieving this milestone demonstrates Trinity’s commitment to prioritising student mental health. At a time when student mental health is a critical priority, both in Ireland and worldwide, this accreditation feels more important than ever. According to the British Journal of Psychiatry , mental health conditions among students are increasingly common, with a fivefold increase in disclosures over the past decade. The Lancet Commission further highlights this urgency, noting that 75% of mental health disorders develop before age 24, with adolescence and early adulthood being the most vulnerable period. With demand for counselling services higher than ever, both in Ireland and globally, the development of Trinity’s SCS aligns with national efforts, such as expanding after-hours support like NiteLine, a student-run helpline, and the HSE-run crisis text line 50808. At Trinity, the SilverCloud programme provides online cognitive- behavioural support for anxiety, depression, and stress. Provost and President, Dr Linda Doyle, reflecting on the accreditation, said: ‘It’s fantastic to know that our service exceeds the highest standards. Supporting mental health will remain a top priority. Credit is due to the broader student support network, including tutors, the College Health Service, the Disability Service, and Trinity Sport, all of whom play a vital role in student wellbeing and mental health.’
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