Workshop 3.3 – Well-Being and Mental Health
Student Well-Being & Mental Health
N.N., Student Counselling, STW Schleswig-Holstein
Student services cooperation with the university – a strong partnership
Christine Bartho, Psychological Psycho-therapist at University Clinic for Psychotherapy at Christian Albrecht University in Kiel
ADHS in student counselling
This session will present modern approaches to the treatment of ADHD in individual and group settings, and how these can be applied when counselling students.
The following topics will be covered:
• Introduction: „What exactly is ADHD?“
• Checklist: „Could the student have ADHD?“
• Various treatment options for ADHD, particularly in counselling (social support through group activities, coaching, mindfulness training)
• Mindfulness exercise in practice, if applicable
Fiona Earley, Support Officer, Dublin City University
Creating an autism-friendly university
Our research led to the „Nine Principles of an Autism-Friendly University,“ a framework designed to embed „inclusion by design.“ In 2018, Dublin City University (DCU) committed to implementing these principles, which are now integral to reshaping its cultural, academic, and physical environment.
We will explain how the principles are implemented through a structured, three-tiered approach.
Individual support- including a summer transition program, peer-mentoring led by autistic students, specialised counselling, and a program to enhance workplace access for interns and graduates.
Increase autism acceptance and awareness- through comprehensive training for academic staff, administrative departments, and student leaders. This promotes a deeper understanding of neurodiversity, reduces stigma, and ensures autistic voices are amplified across the community.
Adapting the physical environment to mitigate sensory and navigational challenges, utilising tools like the „DCU Campus Explorer,“ an „Autism-Friendly Design Guide,“ and Quiet Spaces across campus.
This holistic model supports autistic students from transition to graduation, improves the campus sensory experience, and fosters a better work environment. It offers universities practical insights on how to move from simple accommodation towards creating a genuine sense of inclusion and belonging for all.