A Perthshire teenager is calling on the Scottish government to provide more mental health support to help students cope with Covid-19 restrictions.
Aimee Thomas, 17, has started her first year studying law at Aberdeen University and says the restrictions on movement are causing students to feel more “agitated” and “unsettled.”
Aimee, from Kinross, said her first week had been broadly positive but recent demands that students limit their social interactions in a bid to prevent further outbreaks and local lockdowns were spreading fear and uncertainty.
“As more and more limiting restrictions have been introduced over the past few days, it’s made everyone feel agitated, unsettled and unsure of what to do,” she said.
“Whilst we can all comprehend that restrictions on social interactions are in place to prevent spread of the virus, we have yet to see any kind of helpful mental health support being offered by the government.
“The universities themselves are in a limbo situation, understanding the struggles of their new students but also having to follow the governments rules.
“The government needs to be far more tactical and think about the consequences and collateral damage of their decisions before announcing them to the public and fearmongering students.”
The Scottish Government said it had made £6 million available for mental health services, and was providing more than 80 counsellors to work specifically in colleges and universities.
A spokesperson said: “Student wellbeing is of paramount importance, and we want to reassure students and families that practical and welfare support is in place, particularly given current circumstances.
“The Scottish Government has committed funding to introduce more than 80 additional counsellors in colleges and universities. Some of these counsellors are already in place, and we are well on our way to achieving that goal.
“During the pandemic we have committed £6 million of funding to improve mental health throughout Scotland, and students have access to all services available to the general population.”
Aberdeen University has introduced sanctions for students found breaking government guidelines. These include a £250 fine as well as potential suspensions or expulsions.
Aimee’s mum, Sharon Thomas – manager of mental health charity, Lighthouse for Perth – said the measures were frightening for students.
She said: “They are really starting to scare the kids and no one is considering the mental health aspect to all of this.
“They really need to have on-hand support set up.”
An Aberdeen University spokesperson said: “This message was issued in order to remind students of their responsibilities, while thanking the vast majority whose behaviour has been exemplary.
“We continue to deal with a number of confirmed cases of Covid-19 within our University community, where a range of support is in place for students who are self-isolating.”
