A new wellbeing space in the library will be worked on in an effort to help students relax and recharge, two of its backers have told Brig.
Mental Wellbeing Society president Annabelle Cooper says the space, unveiled days before exams begin, has been created to alleviate stress and aid mental health.
As well as books and flowers, the wellbeing space contains a selection of food and drink, games and mental health support documents, all overlooking Stirling’s famous, scenic campus.
Located in the library’s short-term loan area, Cooper says the space is intended to feel less like a formalised study location and more like a living room.
“When I was in second year, I realised just how stressful it was and how stressed all students get, whether it’s with dissertations or throughout the year.
“We thought it would be a good idea to see if we could arrange a space for everybody to chill out, where they don’t have to think too much about exams and stuff like that.”
Faculty liaison librarian Maya Jeffery says counselling experience has made her well-aware of how common mental health issues are.
“I sit on the [university’s] equality and diversity committee, and there was a report put in there about the crisis students had in looking after themselves, so we thought it would be a good opportunity to provide a tranquil space.”
Over time, organisers plan to add elements like new furniture, beanbags, and a partition, and will ask students to suggest other ideas.
“We want it to be a place students can make evolve, and comment on what they want to improve,” said Jeffery.
The project has received funding from the Stirling Fund and Vice-Chancellor’s Fund, as well as support from the library and Stirling Students’ Union. Mental Wellbeing Society initially struggled to find a viable wellbeing space until they were put in contact with the library.
Cooper said: “It’s such a great space, we didn’t know this was going to happen, so I’m really glad it’s come about in such a short amount of time.
“We couldn’t have done it without the Stirling Fund and Vice-Chancellor’s Fund as well, so that was really helpful.”
Union President Astrid Smallenbroek said: “The new wellbeing space in the library is a space for students to unwind and relax, to promote positive mental health.
“Hopefully, the space will promote positive mental wellbeing. The space is for all students to use and we’ve already seen a lot of positive feedback on social media.”
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