Atlantic Technological University and Ulster University to host spring conference on college students mental health and wellbeing

Dr Louise McBride, Head of the Department of Nursing and Health Care at Atlantic Technological University, Donegal, says there is now a heightened urgency of addressing mental health concerns across all educational levels with "Contemporary trends suggesting that we now need to refocus on mental health and wellbeing not only at the higher education level but also including secondary and primary school levels."

The conference aims to shed light on the significant shifts in the mental health landscape of higher education institutions post the COVID-19 pandemic. These changes have had a profound impact on students' progression, attrition rates, and overall college experiences, according to evidence-based research.

Speakers and guests for the event include:

· Dr Orla Flynn, ATU President, who will open the conference.
· Joe McHugh TD, who will launch the IRC U-WELL Research project.
· Prof Siobhan O’Neill, Professor of Mental Health Sciences at Ulster University and Mental Health Champion for Northern Ireland.
· John Meehan, Assistant National Director, Mental Health Planning, and Head of the HSE National Office for Suicide Prevention.
· Prof Gary Donohoe (NUIG), Clinical Psychologist and Professor of Psychology at the University of Galway.
· Dr Ross Woods, Senior Manager, Teaching and Learning, Student Success, Health and Wellbeing, Higher Education Authority (HEA).
· Paul Hannigan ATU Donegal Head of College, who will close the conference.

The conference will also present key findings and recommendations from the HEA North-South Research funded I-SWAP project. This initiative aimed to improve the wellbeing and help-seeking behaviours among students living with ADHD on the Island of Ireland. The I-SWAP research team included Dr Elaine Murray (UU), Dr Louise McBride (ATU), Dr Margaret McLafferty(UU) and James Sweeney (ATU).

Details about the conference schedule and registration information can be found through the ATU website or by emailing nursing.donegal@atu.ie

Registration is free of charge and based on a first-come, first-served basis.

Featured image: 

I-SWAP research team: James Sweeney, Brian McGonagle, Sharon Ferguson, Dr Louise McBride, Dr Maragret McLafferty, Tara Doherty and Eilis Boulais. 

Aidan Haughey 
ATU Communications Manager /
Bainisteoir Cumarsáide OTA
Ollscoil Teicneolaíochta an Atlantaigh (OTA), Éire
Atlantic Technological University (ATU), Ireland       
Tel: +353 86 086 6913
www.atu.ie/communications