Where to go for mental health support at university

All too often, we see a glorified image of uni life plastered over social media. But it's important to recognise that university can be a challenging time for many too. You may be living independently for the first time while having to balance conflicting academic, financial, and social pressures. This can all take a toll on your mental health. 

Sometimes being a student can feel very isolating. If you're struggling, it's always better to reach out to someone. While it might sometimes feel like there's nowhere to turn, this isn't the case. To recognise University Mental Health Day, we've put together a list of resources and places where you can get mental health support while studying at university. 

University support 

There are lots of different support structures in place at your university. Every university will have slightly different support structures in place, so it's always a good idea to look at your website. Take a look at the different options available to you and see if any of them feel like they might be the right fit.  

Wellbeing team

Your university should have a wellbeing team to offer you support with any challenges you might be facing, both physically and mentally. This team may also be called 'disability support'. Your university's wellbeing service will offer you a safe, non-judgemental, and, most importantly, confidential space to share any issues that might be affecting your studies. 

They may then be able to make specific arrangements to accommodate your needs, such as extra time on exams or extensions on coursework. They can also refer you to further mental health support resources if you need them.

University counselling service 

Most universities will have a free counselling service available to students. You can receive confidential counselling from a mental health professional who should be able to offer you emotional support or advice about your specific challenges. You can usually self-refer to your university counselling service, but do bear in mind that there may be a waiting list. 

Faculty 

When you start university, you should be assigned a personal tutor. They are there to help and support you with any specific challenges or issues you face from an academic or personal perspective. You can arrange to see your personal tutor privately to discuss any mental health difficulties that you might be having. They are well-positioned to liaise with your university support teams or other members of faculty to create a plan that could help ease the burden on you. 

If you feel that you have a better relationship with another member of the faculty, you can also reach out to them for advice. 

Outside university

Of course, your university isn't the only place you can turn to for mental health support as a student. There are lots of other resources available outside of university too. 

GP

Your GP can help you to get treatment for any mental health challenges. This could be by getting a professional mental health diagnosis (should you need one), prescribing medication where necessary, or referring you to other local mental health resources. 

You can get free appointments through the NHS. If you haven't already, consider registering at your local GP surgery at university so it's easier for you to attend appointments.

Charities 

There are lots of mental health charities out there that work specifically with students and young people. 

• Student Minds offers mental health advice and resources for students and encourages peer-to-peer support. 
• Students against depression offers specific advice for students struggling with depression, anxiety, or sleep issues.
• Nightline offers a safe and judgement-free telephone support and listening service every night.
• Young Minds offers support and information for young people struggling with mental health challenges.
• Propel offers help and advice to young careers looking to move into higher education.

If you ever need someone to talk to, you can also ring, text, or email Samaritans at any time of the day or night.

Friends and family 

Your friends and family can be a great source of support for you while at university. If you feel comfortable, reach out to a trusted friend at university if you're struggling. They might be able to offer advice, a new perspective, or just a comforting shoulder to lean on. 

Don't feel like you can't reach out to friends and family back home too. There's nothing wrong with calling home, or organising as many weekend visits as you feel like you need. Homesickness can be a cause of stress, anxiety, and depression and you might feel better by popping home for a visit. You should tailor your university experience to work for you, not what works for other people.

Online

There are lots of good mental health resources available online. For example, Student Space is a website set up by the charity Student Minds, which offers access to student support services by text, email, and phone, information on how to care for your mental health while at university, and additional guidance on how to find mental health resources and aid at your specific university.

Support yourself and others this University Mental Health Day

University Mental Health Day is an annual awareness day designed to get people talking about student mental health and encourage making mental health a priority across all universities. 

If you're struggling with any negative emotions while at university, try to reach out to someone. Remember that you're never alone and there is support available to you.

If you're looking for more advice, check out our blog on how to look after your mental health while at university. 

You can find more tips on the health and wellbeing section of our content hub too.