Where to find help at uni if you're feeling blue

The student experience is amazing but unfortunately it does come with ups and downs. Whether you're stressed about the workload, worried about the way you're thinking and feeling or want some general advice on your wellbeing, there are so many services that are here to help. 

Your mental health is just as important as your physical health and you shouldn't hesitate to look for support as and when you need it. Here's a list of some useful support services that you can access during your time at university:

Health Assured

We want you to have a positive experience during your stay with us and you can access our Student Advice Line from our partners at Health Assured. Whether you need to talk about your mental wellbeing, finances or would like some general advice the phone line is open 24/7 so feel free to contact them when you need some support. 

It could be a good idea to download their My Healthy Advantage app. Use it to keep track of your mood and set goals in order to organise your thoughts. 

• Tel: 0800 030 5182

Student Minds

As the UK's student mental health charity, they offer 24-hour support including top tips, a diverse range of resources and student stories that shed light on the tough times during university. Make sure you take a look at Student Space for expert advice on mental wellbeing. 

They also provide a varied selection of communication services, from texting and webchat to phone calls and emails. Choose what method suits you best, if you don't feel comfortable speaking to a volunteer on the phone you might prefer to text instead.

• Tel: 0808 808 4994
• Text 'STUDENT' to 85258
• Email: students@themix.org.uk

Samaritans

This is another charity that is available for your mental health needs 24/7 and has a range of ways that you can contact them. So you can choose which is best for you and your needs.

If you think keeping track of your emotions might help you organise your thoughts and identify the causes of some of your issues, download their self-help app and get recommendations for coping techniques. 

• Tel: 116 123
• Email: jo@samaritans.org

SANE Support Forum

SANE has a wide variety of services to support you when you're feeling down or find yourself struggling. SANEline is their national out-of-hours helpline open from 4pm-10pm every day where you can speak to trained volunteers who offer non-judgemental support and solutions. 

Sometimes writing your feelings down can be easier than speaking to someone. If you feel this way, emailing or texting might be more useful to you. It's also worth considering joining their online SANE community forum too which provides a safe space to share experiences with over 25,000 other members.

• Tel: 0300 304 7000
• Email: support@sane.org.uk
• Textcare: online form

The Mix

If you're under 25 and are needing advice regarding your mental health, finances, employment and more, The Mix is a great organisation to contact. Not only do they have a helpline and crisis messenger, they also offer a counselling service if you're looking for short-term support where you can have up to 8 sessions.

• Tel: 0808 808 4994
• Crisis messenger: text 'THEMIX' to 85258
• Email: online form
• The Mix Counselling Service: online form

Shout

Text trained volunteers confidentially at any time, day or night. This service is ideal if you don't feel comfortable speaking to someone on the phone. It's a great way to be signposted to further resources and extra expert support when you don't know where to go. Just note that the volunteers will respond as quickly as possible but have to prioritise high risk texters during periods of high demand. 

• Text 'SHOUT' to 85258

Where to go for support at university

Most universities have a dedicated mental health team that offer one-to-one sessions to discuss your struggles, they can also signpost you to other services outside of university, support groups and workshops. If you're not sure who to speak to, your lecturers will be able to give you some guidance and it can be helpful to make them aware of your circumstances during your studies.

If you have been assigned an advisor or supervisor for the academic year they're not only there to keep track of your progress and studies, you can also go to them with any personal issues you're experiencing. They will also be happy to signpost you to the right services offered by your university. Don't forget about the Students' Union either! 

Seek out the support you need and make the most of your time at university.