Diane Phimister and Kerry Archer argue that the psychological health needs of many students go unmet and suggest a series of recommendations to improve the support available in universities

Increasing numbers of university students appear to be presenting with psychological and mental health needs. This has become a subject of debate within academic contexts and is underpinned by research studies suggesting that mental health problems among students are becoming more widespread and more severe (Stanley et al 2007). Thames Valley University, for example, found that 46 per cent of male and 64 per cent of female students were suffering from symptoms that could be classified as clinical anxiety, with symptoms indicative of clinical depression in 12 per cent and 25 per cent respectively (Coxon 2001). Research has indicated that this is not just a local issue but one that spans the UK (Office of National Statistics 2007). This article offers the context for development of a policy to address this issue, and includes recommendations for other education and placement providers to consider.