Should Universities Teach Wellbeing?

Tuesday 14th May, 2019

18:30-20:30 , Arts One Lecture Theatre, Mile End Campus

A panel discussion about university responsibilities in mental health services for students. Can universities teach wellbeing, and what is the role of the arts and humanities in this endeavour?

There is, apparently, a mental health crisis in higher education. Student referrals for counselling are soaring, and according to one study, 40% of PhDs are depressed or anxious. Students in Bristol took to the streets to demand better mental health services, while the universities minister declared the purpose of universities should no longer just be knowledge, but also wellbeing. What are universities’ responsibilities in this area? What should students expect and demand? Can universities teach wellbeing, and what is the role of the arts and humanities in this endeavour?

This event is aimed at QMUL staff and students, and the public. It is free to attend but you need to register here.

Panelists:
Shamima Akter, QMSU Vice President Welfare
Prof Kam Bhui, QMUL Head of Centre for Psychiatry and Deputy Director of the Wolfson Institute of Preventive Medicine at Barts and The London
Dr Jules Evans, QMUL Centre for the History of the Emotions
Kevin Halon, QMUL Counselling Manager
Niall Morrissey, QMUL Mental Health Co-ordinator
Prof Barbara Taylor, QMUL History
Dr Tiffany Watt Smith, QMUL Drama (Chair)