Students - Improving your mental health at University
Going to University is a great opportunity to gain independence, make new friends and learn but we know from some it is not a positive experience 100% of the time.
First Things first - You Are Not Alone
We have dealt with hundreds of students over the years, some loving the University experience, and those who do not. We know some of you may experience mental health issues as a result of money worries or missing home, and we want you to know you are not alone.
Although some of you know that support is out there, it can be difficult to know where to turn. Here is our guide to help you not to suffer in silence.
Talk to your GP, Loved Ones or your Personal Tutor
If you ever struggle with suicidal feelings, it's important to talk to your GP and loved ones. It might also help to look at advice from Mind or see the helplines below if you need someone to talk to.
Don't forget that your personal tutor is often a good starting place if you want to discuss any issues you're having, and receive direction to the right support services.
Get in touch with Aberystwyth University or Student Minds
Get in touch with the Aberystwyth University team to find out about their counselling services and see what schemes they offer to help your wellbeing. There are also charities like Student Minds who run support groups.
Mental Health and your Assignments
If poor mental health has impacted your ability to complete your work on time, or to the same standard as usual, then you should be able to apply for mitigating or extenuating circumstances for any exams or coursework you think could be affected.
Mental Health Helplines
Don't forget that there will always be someone at the other end of the phone waiting to talk to you, no matter what time of day or night – you're never alone. Here are some of the main helplines:
Samaritans – Their support line is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week on 116 123. If you prefer to write down your feelings, or you're worried about being overheard, you can send an email jo@samaritans.org.
SHOUT – If you'd prefer to communicate with someone with text messages, you can text 'SHOUT' to 85258. This is a free and confidential support service that's available 24/7.
Nightline – A lot of universities have a nightline, which typically runs from around 8pm – 8am during term time. They offer a completely confidential and anonymous service, where they listen to you and offer advice but allow you to make your own decisions on any further action. Head to the Nightline website to search the phone number for your university.
PAPYRUS – This suicide prevention charity runs HOPELINEUK from 9am – midnight every day of the year. The helpline is for anyone under the age of 35, and you can call them on 0800 068 4141, text 07860039967 or email pat@papyrus-uk.org.
Mind – For information about the mental health support in your local area, you can call Mind's Infoline on 0300 123 3393 from 9am – 6pm every weekday (except bank holidays).
CALM – CALM (the Campaign Against Living Miserably) has a specific focus on reducing suicide rates among men, but offers general mental health advice too. You can reach their helpline on 0800 58 58 58 or their webchat between 5pm – midnight every day of the year.
University can be scary and everyone faces their own battles and challenges as they go through it. Passing assignments are important however not as important as your wellbeing, so please make sure you look after yourself and seek help when you need it.
Alternatively, if you feel more comfortable talking to one of us in the office please feel free to contact us on lettings@alexanders-online.co.uk / sales@alexanders-online.co.uk at anytime or pop in! We will do our best to help.
Take care,
The Alexanders Team.