Mental Health Support Service for Mathematics and Statistics students in Scotland

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Miller, Ainsley (2026) Mental Health Support Service for Mathematics and Statistics students in Scotland. Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. ISSN 1759-667X (In Press)

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Abstract

Mental health conditions are increasing among young people in Scotland, with universities experiencing rising demand for support services. Long waiting times and limited resources have highlighted the need for innovative approaches. This article presents a case study of a Mental Health Support Service (MHSS) embedded within the Mathematics and Statistics department at a Scottish university. Since its launch in 2021, the service has facilitated over 100 appointments, providing confidential listening and signposting support for students. Analysis of service usage reveals engagement across all year groups and demographics, with common issues including anxiety, low mood, and stress. Feedback indicates that students valued the subjectspecific understanding, accessibility, and responsiveness of the service. These findings suggest that departmental-level support can complement university-wide provision, enhance early intervention, and improve student well-being, offering a model for other faculties seeking to address mental health challenges in higher education.

ORCID iDs

Miller, Ainsley ORCID logoORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5295-4848;
CORE (COnnecting REpositories)