The University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona Campus, on Thursday launched its Mental Health Toolkit, an initiative aimed at increasing awareness and strengthening support systems for student mental health and wellness.

Speaking at the launch, Professor Densil Williams, Pro-Vice Chancellor and Principal of The UWI, Mona Campus noted that “the document will provide a roadmap for students and community members for understanding the importance of mental health within our community.” He saw it as investment that the Campus is making to keep mental health at the forefront of the student success ecosystem.

Dr Tomlin Paul, Deputy Principal of The UWI Mona, acknowledged the growing global and local challenges facing student mental health.

“This is a worldwide problem affecting university campuses and is also a challenge for us here at The UWI Mona,” said Dr Paul. “These challenges can have a negative impact on the success of our students, but we are very committed to addressing them.”

He emphasized that the Mental Health Toolkit is a strategic investment to mobilize the university community in addressing student mental health needs.

“A central and consistent question that defines the work of my office is: How can we build thriving, connected ecosystems defined by collective awareness, assets, and actions? We’re not just looking for a single solution, but for diverse, people-centered interventions. This is more than just a financial investment—it’s a community-wide movement.”

Dr Paul also highlighted the various initiatives across campus contributing to this broader student success ecosystem, including innovations being developed within the Office of Student Financing, Library, Registry, and Campus Security. He announced the upcoming launch of an online application portal for student scholarships as another effort to improve the students’ experience. He noted that “our staff and faculty are a critical part of this ecosystem and we must stress that these investments will also impact their experience given the principle of connectedness.”

The Mental Health Toolkit was developed by Professor Audrey Pottinger, Consultant Clinical Psychologist and a longstanding advocate for student well-being. In her remarks, she shared her vision for the toolkit’s impact:

“I hope that the toolkit serves to sensitise students and staff to the nuances of mental health and decrease the shame and stigma associated with seeking mental health help.”

According to the toolkit, which was unveiled in the Council Room at the UWI Mona, common mental health stressors for students include financial hardship, academic pressure, social isolation, identity conflicts, and the ongoing effects of climate change and economic instability in the Caribbean region. These issues can hinder academic performance, professional development, and personal well-being.

 “Although some of the challenges can be overcome by family, peer or staff support, some students will experience more persistent emotional or psychological difficulties and will benefit from professional mental health counselling and support,” the document said.

“Added to that is the students’ and their families’ perception of mental health stigma and discrimination against help-seeking behaviour. Thus, some students who are struggling mentally are suffering in silence because of the fear of being exposed,” it said.

It added: “Given the ascending trend of high rates of student mental health difficulties globally, the need for universities to develop student mental health programmes and policies has become a priority. Universities and colleges therefore must ensure that appropriate plans and arrangements for student welfare are in place for undergraduate and postgraduate students.”

The UWI Mona, according to the toolkit, wishes to create an environment committed to taking reasonable steps to supporting the mental health of their student members.

 The document outlines clear objectives:

• Raise awareness about mental health concerns and reduce stigma in the university environment.
• Inform students about the range of mental health services available at UWI Mona.
• Provide guidelines for staff and peers on how to respond to students experiencing distress.
• Clarify reporting procedures for student leaders, faculty, and staff.

The toolkit was endorsed by key academics and leaders on the campus, including Professor Silvia Kouwenberg (Chair, Committee of Deans), Dr Tina Hylton-King (Director, University Health Centre), Dr Winklet Gallimore (Associate Dean, Faculty of Science and Technology), and Dr Debbie-Ann Chambers, (Senior Counselling Psychologist).

It will be formally rolled out during the summer orientation programme for new students and is expected to be an integral part of the university’s ongoing student success strategy. “We want our students to thrive—not just academically, but emotionally and socially. This toolkit is one more step in building a connected, compassionate campus,” Dr Paul concluded.