When we are trapped in a cycle of learned helplessness, we may find it difficult to make active choices. Here are some ways to open up and support students to regain their sense of agency. Collaboration:

Humans are social beings. We all rely on cooperation and social support to thrive and survive.

Growth, progress and healing from trauma therefore take place in the context of relationships and meaningful connections that enable shared control and decision-making.

A university is a place that provides support services and opportunities for collaboration, but students may need help and support to access them as well as the motivation to do so.

We can help students to build strong relationships with peers and staff, and to navigate the university to find the support they need.

Collaboration involves:

Peer-to-peer support systems and communities

Setting up spaces where students and staff can learn from one another

To find support from academic staff and build strong relationships. I had lost a friend and a family

member within a few months. The Wellbeing team supported me through my bereavement

process and I was able to complete my second year.

Student testimony

Ask yourself: What can you do to facilitate collaboration between students, and between students and staff?Try it

Wellbeing services

SMART team (financial support)

Disability and Dyslexia Service

Positive stress

Examples of key support services

to enable collaboration:

Ask closed questions

Ask open questions

Be clear on the boundaries

Give them a range of options

Have one- to-one

conversations Show patience

Display encouraging

body language

Listen actively and intently