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Looking After Your Mental Health and Wellbeing at University

Starting university is an exciting adventure. New friends, new experiences, and a whole new level of independence can be incredibly rewarding. But let's be honest, it can also feel a little overwhelming at times.

If you're feeling nervous, stressed, anxious, or unsure about what's ahead, you're definitely not alone. Most students experience ups and downs as they settle into university life. The good news? There are lots of ways to look after your wellbeing and plenty of support available if you need it.

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Getting Started Finding Your Balance Managing Stress Getting Support Urgent Support You've Got This

It's OK to Feel Overwhelmed

Moving to university often comes with a lot of change all at once. You're learning new routines, meeting new people, and adapting to a different environment.

It's completely normal to feel:

Excited one minute and anxious the next.
Unsure about whether you're doing things "right".
Homesick or lonely at times.
Worried about fitting in.
Overwhelmed by new responsibilities.

Remember: Nobody has everything figured out, even if it looks like they do.

Finding Your Balance

University life can sometimes feel like a juggling act. Between lectures, social events, part-time jobs, and remembering to feed yourself something other than instant noodles, there's a lot going on!

Your degree is important, but you don't need to spend every waking hour studying.

Top tips:

Use a planner or calendar to stay organised.
Break larger assignments into smaller tasks.
Take regular breaks to avoid burnout.
Celebrate small wins along the way.

Making friends takes time, and friendships don't appear overnight.

Try to:

Attend events that genuinely interest you.
Say yes to new opportunities when you feel able.
Remember that quality friendships matter more than having a huge social circle.

Many students balance university alongside part-time jobs.

A few things to remember:

Be realistic about how many hours you can manage. Remember that your degree is a full-time commitment. The University recommends no more than 20 hours of part-time work per week.
If you're an international student, make sure you understand any restrictions that apply to you.
Protect time for studying and rest.
Don't feel pressured to work more than is sustainable for you.

Self-care isn't just bubble baths and face masks (although those are great too!).

It can also include:

Getting enough sleep.
Eating regularly.
Moving your body.
Spending time outdoors.
Taking breaks from screens.
Doing things you enjoy.

Looking after yourself isn't a luxury. It's essential.

Managing Stress and Anxiety

A little bit of stress is a normal part of life, but if stress starts feeling overwhelming, it's important to take notice.

Some simple ways to manage stress include:

Taking things one step at a time.
Focusing on what you can control.
Talking to someone you trust.
Practising mindfulness or relaxation techniques.
Taking regular breaks when studying.
Getting fresh air and exercise.

Remember: Difficult days do not mean you're failing. They mean you're human.

Asking for Help is a Strength, Not a Weakness

Many students worry about reaching out for support because they think they should be able to cope on their own.

The truth is that asking for help is one of the strongest things you can do.

You wouldn't expect yourself to fix a broken laptop without support, so don't expect yourself to manage every challenge alone either.

If you're struggling, talk to:

Friends or flatmates.
Your personal tutor.
University wellbeing services.
SU Advice.
Your GP.

Support is there for everyone, not just when things reach crisis point.

You don't have to wait until you're in crisis to ask for support. Getting help early can make things easier to manage.

Urgent Mental Health Support

If you feel like you could be in an urgent crisis, the following services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

UK Emergency Services

If there is an immediate risk to life or serious injury, call 999.

NHS Mental Health Crisis Support

Call 111 and select Option 2 to access NHS Mental Health Crisis support.

Campus Patrol / Security

For urgent assistance on campus, call 01206 872222.

Samaritans

To talk about anything that is upsetting you, you can contact the Samaritans 24 hours a day, every day.

Samaritans: 116 123 (free from any phone).

Papyrus – Prevention of Young Suicide

For confidential suicide prevention advice, contact HOPELINE247, available 24 hours a day, every day.

Papyrus: 0800 068 4141.

Shout

If you would prefer not to talk but want some mental health support, you could text SHOUT to 85258.

Shout offers a confidential 24/7 text service providing support if you are in crisis and need immediate help.

Be Kind to Yourself

University isn't a race, and there is no "perfect" student experience.

Some weeks you'll feel confident and motivated. Other weeks you might need a little extra support. Both are completely normal.

Give yourself permission to:

Make mistakes.
Learn as you go.
Take breaks.
Ask for help.
Move at your own pace.

Most importantly: Your wellbeing matters just as much as your academic success.

You've Got This

Starting university is a big step, and it's normal to feel uncertain sometimes. Take things one day at a time, look after yourself, reach out when you need support, and remember that you're not alone.

Your university journey is about more than just earning a degree. It's about growing, learning, and discovering what works best for you.

And if things feel difficult along the way? We're here to help.