Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) is a student-centred Institute who consider not only their students’ academic pursuits but also put a specific focus on their student’s physical, emotional and social wellbeing. DkIT have a full suite of student services on campus from Careers and Employability, Student Counselling, the Health Unit, Pastoral Care, Disability Services & Support, Diversity & Access supports and recently they are delighted to report that Mark Finnegan a mental health nurse has also joined the Students Service team.
Mark’s new role as a mental health advisor has been created as an additional service to support students who often deal with a range of challenges, like stress from exams and balancing study with part time jobs. They might also feel anxious about their future careers or struggle with loneliness and homesickness. Juggling all these pressures can lead to deteriorating mental health, and the social pressure to fit in or perform well doesn’t help. Adjusting to college life can be tough for a lot of students due to the change in routine, the pressure and increased responsibility. Students often don’t realise how much this can affect their wellbeing until it’s suddenly too much.
Mark said “Among the challenges faced by students, many talk about how hard it is to escape the pressure to look a certain way and how It seems to them like everyone else has their life together. This is fuelled by the world they’re in, where active social media use feels like a generational expectation. My role starts with simply being here, being present, and helping these students navigate one of the most challenging and exciting times in their lives”
Mark decided to become a mental health nurse as he wanted a career where he could connect with people and make a positive impact on their well-being. Mark completed his Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Mental Health Nursing and proceeded to work for several years in a variety of in-patient and community settings. Mark also holds a post graduate MSC in Cyber Psychology, he said of this “I decided to complete a MSc in cyberpsychology with a focus on the impact of social media and digital content on mental health because I saw firsthand how deeply social media affects people's well-being. As a mental health nurse, I noticed an increase in people struggling with issues directly linked to their online interactions, from anxiety and depression to self-esteem and body image concerns. I wanted to dive deeper into understanding these dynamics and find effective ways to address them”.
Mark who is relatively new to the Student Services team in DkIT is loving his role so far, he said “Being a mental health advisor in DKIT is an engaging and impactful role. My day-to-day involves meeting with students to address their mental health concerns, whether they’re dealing with stress, anxiety, or other personal issues. Answering their questions regarding medications and therapies. Liaising with G.Ps and community mental health teams. I help students explore new ways of managing distress, breathing techniques, mindfulness strategies, and discuss whether they might benefit from therapy or counselling. I provide education on mental wellbeing and collaborate closely with both campus staff and student services to ensure students have access to the support they need”
Mark added, “I’m excited to enhance our already great student support services in DKIT and make a positive impact on student mental health and well-being. I’m leading the JED project, which focuses on boosting social connections, improving supports and encouraging students to seek help. This approach not only aims to build a healthier campus culture but also helps create a more supportive and productive college environment where students feel valued and cared for.
