Arden University launches new mental health and neurodiversity support website

Starting university brings many new experiences and challenges. For some students, looking after their wellbeing, managing their mental health, or understanding how their mind works is an important part of succeeding in their studies. Some students may already have a diagnosed mental health condition or neurodiversity diagnosis when they join Arden, whilst others may begin to experience difficulties, recognise traits in themselves, or seek assessment and support during their time at university. Whatever their starting point, having access to reliable information, practical strategies and appropriate support can make a significant difference to wellbeing, confidence and academic success.

That's why we're delighted to share that Arden University's new Psychology Resources for Mental Health and Neurodiversity Support website is now live. Developed as part of the Access and Participation Plan, with clinical experts in mental health and neurodiversity from the School of Psychology, led by Marie Chellingsworth, the website has been designed as a free resource for all Arden students and staff. It serves two key purposes: to provide students with accessible, evidence-informed information, practical tools and wellbeing resources to help them thrive during their studies, and to support staff in developing their understanding of mental health and neurodiversity so they can better recognise, understand and respond to the needs of the students they support. The website also includes resources to help staff members maintain their own wellbeing and mental health.

What's on the website?

The website brings together a wide range of resources aimed at supporting wellbeing, increasing understanding of mental health and neurodiversity, and helping members of the Arden community feel informed, supported and connected.

The site is split into two main areas: Mental Health Resources and Neurodiversity Resources. Here's a quick look at what you'll find in each.

Mental Health Resources

This section is designed to help students and staff understand, manage and maintain their mental wellbeing. It may be particularly useful for individuals currently experiencing mental health difficulties, those supporting someone who is struggling, or anyone wanting to develop a greater understanding of mental health.

You'll find a range of mental health booklets exploring common conditions, including information on signs and symptoms, treatment options, self-help strategies and guidance on accessing support. There are also wellbeing resources designed to help people build resilience, develop healthy habits and enhance day-to-day wellbeing.

Those wishing to explore topics in greater depth can access videos, webinars and events delivered by the School of Psychology team, covering areas such as resilience, positive psychology, stress management and mental health awareness.

Neurodiversity Resources

This section has been created for individuals who identify as neurodivergent, those who are exploring whether they may be neurodivergent, and anyone wishing to gain a better understanding of neurodiversity and the strengths and challenges associated with different neurocognitive profiles.

One of the website's most unique features is an interactive 3D brain tool, allowing users to explore different regions of the brain and understand how they may relate to various neurodivergent presentations.

There are also neurodiversity booklets covering topics including diagnosis, disclosure, sensory differences, executive functioning, burnout and practical strategies for study and everyday life. Visitors can explore the Neurodiversity Network Hub, where neurodivergent and neurotypical students and staff can connect, share experiences and foster a sense of belonging within the Arden community. A calendar of events and workshops celebrating neurodiversity is also available.

If you need urgent help

We want to ensure that anyone experiencing a mental health crisis, or concerned about someone else, knows where to turn for immediate support.

The website includes a dedicated Urgent Help page containing clear guidance and signposting to emergency and crisis services.

If you or someone else feels unsafe, you should call 999 or attend your nearest Accident and Emergency department. Mental health emergencies are just as important as physical health emergencies, and you will always be taken seriously.

For situations that feel serious but are not immediately life-threatening, the website provides information about NHS 111, NHS Talking Therapies and a range of national helplines, including Samaritans, who are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year on 116 123. Support is also signposted for specific communities, including young people and LGBTQ+ individuals.

No one should feel they have to face difficult times alone, and the Urgent Help section has been designed to make finding support straightforward and accessible.

Built to be accessible for everyone

Recognising that people access and process information in different ways, the website incorporates the Recite Me accessibility toolbar, enabling users to personalise their experience.

Features include text-to-speech functionality, translation into more than 100 languages, adjustments to font size, style and colour, reading rulers, screen masking, built-in dictionaries and page summaries to help users engage with content in a way that suits their individual preferences and needs.

Who is the website for?

At Arden, we believe that mental health and neurodiversity support should be available to everyone, not just those who know where to look or feel confident enough to ask for help.

Students can use the website to access psychoeducational resources, practical strategies, events, self-help materials and information about seeking support, whether they are living with an existing condition, exploring whether they may be neurodivergent, experiencing difficulties that have emerged during their studies, or simply wanting to maintain good wellbeing.

Staff can use the website to enhance their understanding of common mental health conditions and neurodivergence, build confidence in recognising and responding to student needs, learn more about inclusive practice and reasonable adjustments, and access resources to support their own wellbeing and mental health.

The resources have been developed by the School of Psychology team, led by Professor Marie Chellingsworth, Professor of Mental Health and Psychological Therapies, and are informed by current evidence, clinical practice and contemporary understanding of mental health, neurodiversity and psychological wellbeing.

Take some time to explore the website

Whether you're a current student seeking practical strategies to support your wellbeing, a prospective student wanting to understand the support available at Arden, or a member of staff looking to further develop your knowledge and practice, the Mental Health and Neurodiversity Support website offers a wealth of accessible, evidence-informed resources designed to help members of our community feel supported, informed and empowered.

Explore the Mental Health and Neurodiversity Support website here