The new Health and Wellness Centre at the University of Malta was officially opened by the Minister for Health, Christopher Fearne, Minister for Education, Evarist Bartolo and University rector Prof. Alfred J. Vella.

The Centre will be offering, under one roof, various services, not only those that were already available but will also be introducing others so that both students and staff will now have better access to holistic and professional support. Counselling Services, Mental Health Services, Nutritional Advice, Tobacco Cessation Support, Sexual Health Clinic and advice on drug-related issues will all be available at the Centre. Moreover, the building also houses the Traditional Chinese Medicine Centre and its various services.

Counselling Services for registered students and staff at the University are by appointment, on weekdays during office hours, while new service users can refer themselves by email, over the phone or in person.

The University Mental Health Services project was launched recently to address mental health problems, especially the more common depressive disorders. Both students and staff are referred to the service either by the doctor or through a review by the psychology team.  

The Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Directorate is offering the weekly service of a registered nutritionist to help users plan and make healthy lifestyle changes. The Directorate is also providing free weekly confidential and individual smoking cessation services. 

Caritas and the University of Malta have teamed up to offer support at the Centre to students and staff who are facing drug-related issues directly or indirectly.  Support on Campus is now available and seeking help is a mature step towards recovery. This service is being offered once a week.

The Sexual Health Clinic at the new Centre will provide discreet and confidential advice about issues relating to sexual health to students and staff at the University of Malta. Services will be offered on a weekly basis.

The Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Clinic is housed within the Health and Wellness Centre, which is located just outside the old University gate at the corner of Imhallef Paolo Debono Street. TCM looks at a person's health and wellbeing through a holistic lens, to achieve a balance of harmony in mind and in body.  The clinic is manned by highly professional doctors from Shanghai University. Treatment options offered include dietary advice, herbal medicine and interventions such as acupuncture, moxibustion and cupping.  After a detailed consultation with the patient, the case is discussed and treatment delivered by appointment against a nominal fee. 

The University also offers other support services on Campus (outside the Health and Wellness Centre building). The Disability Support Unit (ADSU) is dedicated to the equality, diversity and inclusivity of the learning and teaching environment for all. The coordinator on Campus is the main referral point for all requests in connection with special access arrangements.

The University Chaplaincy provides spiritual and pastoral care support to those of a particular faith or religion, as well as those who have none.  It provides a welcoming environment where students and staff can find a listening ear or some quiet time to relax, unwind, meditate and pray. 

The Student Advisory Services Unit is available to all prospective and current students at the University of Malta and aims to provide the necessary information and advice to enable them to make informed and sensible course choices.  The Unit supports the students by providing advisory services on practical and personal issues related to career paths and courses of study within the Maltese context and by providing vocational advice. 

For more information phone the Health and Wellness Centre on 2340 3988; email: [email protected]