Frequently asked questions

What is the role of a non-medical help mentor in supporting students?Depending on the type of support you provide will depend on the roles you take on. Essentially, the tole of an NMH mentor is to facilitate a students positive experience in practical terms as well as supporting with their mental health whilst studying. 

How can I become a non-medical help mentor for higher education students?                                                                                                              You will have to satisfy certain qualification conditions to become an NMH mentor. Each role has it's own requirements. Send us an email for more information. 

What training or qualifications are required to become a non-medical help mentor?                                                                                                                  As above, each role has it's own requirements. You will be required to be educated to degree level with some roles requiring a specific teaching qualification. A membership to a professional body may also be necessary. For more information send us an email. 

How can I effectively support students with their academic and personal challenges?                                                                                                Discussions with your student during your initial meetings should be directed towards what support is needed to succeed. This will look different for every student. You will be required to keep a learning support plan to monitor your progress. These will be completed collaboratively every 12 weeks. 

What resources are available to non-medical help mentors to assist students? There are many accessible resources available online. If you would like further guidance, please send us an email. 

How often should I meet with the students I mentor?                                   Each student is assessed for a certain amount of hours per academic year. There are no rules as to how often you should meet, however you should bear in mind how effective sessions are and the student's preference. You are unable to use more than the allocated hours per academic year, however can request more hours if it is deemed necessary. For more information on how to request further hours, please send us an email. 

Can I offer advice or guidance on mental health issues, or should I refer students to professionals?                                                                                  You can offer guidance and advice as far as you feel comfortable and are qualified to do so. If the student wishes to receive advice relating to medications, therapies, or anything you are not qualified to provide should be directed towards the relevant professionals. 

How can I establish boundaries and maintain confidentiality as a non-medical help mentor?                                                                                                  During your first couple of sessions you can discuss your professional boundaries with your student. It may be helpful for the student to be able to express their own boundaries during this time. An agreement can be written so both parties are aware of each others boundaries. This can be done separately or collaboratively. 

Are there any specific strategies or techniques I should use when mentoring students with mental health concerns?                                                            This will be dependent upon your relationship with your student. It may be useful to discuss strategies and techniques with your student to see what they have tried before, what has or hasn't worked for them, and to assess their learning style. 

How can I support students who are struggling academically due to mental health challenges?                                                                                           There may be times where more practical support is needed. In this instance, discussions can be had as to what the student feels they require support with at that time. If the student is finding their mental health challenging, refer them onto the relevant professionals for further support. 

What should I do if I believe a student is in immediate crisis or needs urgent medical help?                                                                                          Encourage the student to contact 999/111 to speak with the police or the crisis team. If they have a mental health worker or community psychiatric nurse they may discuss their ongoing concerns with them. If you feel the person is at immediate harm or risk to others, follow the safeguarding procedure. 

Are there any legal or ethical considerations I should be aware of as a non-medical help mentor?                                                                                     When working with a student, please remember you have a duty of care towards them. If you feel a student is at risk of harm, you have a duty to report this. In addition, you have a duty to advise of the confidentiality process. You shouldn't provide advice if you are not qualified to do so. For more information please send us an email. 

How can I effectively collaborate with other professionals or support services on campus?                                                                                                  Support services advertise their contact information on their websites. Alternatively, you could request Acharya Mentoring contact on your behalf. 

Are there any resources or workshops available to enhance my skills as a non-medical help mentor?                                                                                      There are many opportunities for Continuing Professional Development (CPD). You can use Google to search through the many opportunities. Remember to keep a record of all your CPD training!

Can I provide referrals to mental health professionals or services if a student requires additional support?                                                                                  If you feel confident to and have the student's consent, yes! If a service has a self referral scheme, the student should be encouraged to do this themselves or with your support. 

How can I support students who are experiencing stress, anxiety, or depression?                                                                                                         Talk to them! Find out what they need and help to facilitate that as best to your ability. Utilise online resources to provide guidance along the journey. 

Are there any specific strategies for promoting self-care and well-being among the students I mentor?                                                                        Again, this is dependent on each student and what they find helpful. Discussing this with your students may help to empower them to take responsibility for their own wellbeing. 

How can I help students develop resilience and coping mechanisms for their mental health challenges?                                                                            Approach this with your student and utilise the many resources available to you. Often, it helps to relate to the student through personal experience. Only do this if you feel comfortable doing so. 

Are there any campus policies or procedures I should be aware of as a non-medical help mentor?                                                                                     These will be published on the university websites. 

How can I effectively communicate and build rapport with the students I mentor?                                                                                                                    Ensure you are actively listening to the student. Take notes during sessions so you can recap when you see them again. Rephrase to confirm your understanding. Show an interest in the student and what is going on for them.