UCLouvain Launches Mental Health First Aid Training for Students
Beginning in October, a pilot project at the Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain) trains 75 students in mental health first aid. The initiative, reported by Le Soir, brings together the Croix-Rouge de Belgique, UCLouvain, and Univers santé to address psychological distress among young adults.
The curriculum stems from a collaborative effort between the Croix-Rouge de Belgique, UCLouvain, and Univers santé, backed by funding from the AVIQ (Agence wallonne pour une vie de qualité). The initiative responds to student survey data showing high clinical thresholds for anxiety, depression, and insomnia.
Mental Health Survey Data Among Students
An institutional survey conducted during the 2022–2023 academic year at UCLouvain revealed that 4 out of 10 students reported clinical levels of anxiety or depression, 1 in 6 experienced severe anxiety, and 1 in 4 suffered from clinical insomnia. To continue documenting these needs, a new student mental health survey runs throughout the current academic year, with results expected in the second quadrimestre.
Collaboration Between Partners and Funding
The project unites three distinct organizations with complementary expertise. The Croix-Rouge de Belgique contributes its background in emergency response and psychosocial support. UCLouvain provides knowledge of student life, peer support frameworks, and academic evaluation. Univers santé brings competencies in health promotion and participatory approaches.
Pilot Program Teaches Students to Spot Psychological Distress
The pilot program spans two half-days and focuses on practical intervention steps. Students learn how to spot signs of psychological distress, approach peers, offer empathetic listening, and direct individuals toward professional care. The curriculum emphasizes personal boundaries, teaching participants that they are not mental health professionals, while also stressing the importance of self-care. Priority for the initial cohort is given to student “buddies” who already act as support networks for their peers.
Adaptation of World Health Organization Tools
The Croix-Rouge de Belgique serves as a natural partner for the pilot, having offered similar workplace mental health first aid training since early 2026. Nathalie Durant, head of mental health first aid training at the Red Cross, noted that psychosocial support helps individuals recover faster following personal or collective crises.
Future Deployment Across the Federation Wallonie-Bruxelles
Organizers plan to scale the initiative beyond the initial pilot phase.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational and scientific communication purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition, diagnosis, or treatment plan.