University of Bristol first to launch 'happiness course'

The University of Bristol has become the first to launch a 10 week 'happiness course' for students in the UK, exploring what happiness is and how to achieve it.

It comes amid growing concerns around the mental health and well-being of students.

Thousands of students have signed up to an opt-in scheme, agreeing foruniversity staff to inform a designated parent, guardian or friend if there areserious concerns about their well-being.

Something a father has been campaigning for after his 19 year old son took his own life during his first year at the university.

The university says core issues such as whether happiness is in the genes and can really be changed and the role of culture in happiness will be explored in the course.