Students in UK Experience Some Mental Health Problems

【Unlocking Word Meanings】

　今日の単語・フレーズ

Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article. 

1. suicidal [soo-uh-SAHYD-l] (adj.) – having the desire to kill one’s self

Example: The student’s suicidal attitude makes him prone to harming himself.

2. anxiety [ang-ZAHY-i-tee] (n.) – the feeling of being uneasy or scared of what could happen in the future

Example:  The upcoming final exams brought a lot of anxiety to the student.

3. homesick [HOHM-sik] (adj.) – feeling sad for being away from home

Example: The professor felt homesick because he has not seen his family for a long time.

4. intensify [in-TEN-si-fahy] (v.) – to strengthen or to make stronger

Example:  Stress intensifies mental problems.

5. well-being [WEL-BEE-ing] (n.) – the condition of being satisfied with one’s happiness, health, and success

Example: Being stress-free improves a person’s well-being.

【Article】

　ニュース記事

Read the text below.

A survey by the National Union of Students (NUS) revealed that university students in the UK experience stress, depression, and suicidal thoughts. NUS surveyed 1,200 students throughout the UK to know what mental health problems they go through. Through this survey, the organization aims to improve its support to students suffering from any mental health problem. Results of the survey shows that 80% of the students feel stressed, 55% suffer from anxiety, 50% have sleeping problems, and 40% feel worthless and hopeless. Also, one out of 10 students has thought of suicide. One in every 20 students also feels anxious due to bullying, while one in 20 students is addicted to alcohol and drugs. According to students, they feel stressed because of exams and grades. Students also feel pressured due to increasing tuition fees and fewer job opportunities after college. Aside from school-related problems, troubles involving friends, family, and money also cause stress and anxiety. In fact, 22% of the students said they felt homesick. Sadly, many of these students have kept their problems to themselves. According to Mr. Farmer, chief executive of a mental health charity, lack of support from friends and family may only intensify the student’s stress and anxiety. Mr. Farmer suggests that educational institutions support students’ well-being by promoting an open culture wherein students can able to talk freely about their problems.

【Viewpoint Discussion】

　ディスカッションテーマ

Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.  

Discussion A

·         Why do you think students tend to keep their problems to themselves?

·         In your opinion, how can friends and family help a student who suffers from mental health problems?

Discussion B

·         How can we prevent other people from harming themselves?

·         Why do you think some people hurt themselves?

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