University of Exeter students pledge to promote wellbeing in 2012

The national campaign, ‘25by2012’ was launched by Mental Wealth UK, a non-profit-making organisation that was setup to support student-led mental health and wellbeing advocacy.

The ‘25by2012’ campaign was introduced following a report released by the Royal College of Psychiatrists published in September, which suggested that “social changes such as the withdrawal of financial support, higher rates of family breakdown and, more recently, economic recession all have an impact on the mental health and wellbeing of students. As such, many counsellors and mental health advisors in universities are reporting increased demand from students for their services.” The report highlighted the “pressing need” for more mental health promotion on campuses.

Gareth Morris, President of the Mind Your Head Society at the University of Exeter says, "It is a great opportunity to work and collaborate with like minded groups across the country. Running a Mental Wealth group is an exciting way to raise awareness, meet a variety of people and make great friends!"

The campaign and the successes of each of the groups were celebrated at an event in Leeds in January. This was a great opportunity for the groups to reflect upon 2011, and also to look ahead at the campaigns and events planned for 2012.