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Let’s be honest. Studying at university isn’t always a bed of roses.
Sometimes you’ll be up against what seems to be a mountain of deadlines.
You might face financial difficulties or problems with housemates.
You might feel homesick, miss family members, or feel overwhelmed by the sudden freefall into the world of adulthood, responsibilities, and new experiences.
Very few young people get through their entire university career without encountering some sorts of problems that have an impact on their wellbeing.
And yet, so little is said of this.
If you’re reading this, chances are you have hit a wall.
Or at least, you could do with some time out, a breather, whatever you want to call it.
Or maybe you want to support a friend or loved one that’s hit a rough patch at uni.
We firmly believe that mental health and wellbeing should be a priority for any student.
When people talk about wellbeing that means not only a healthy diet and exercise. It also covers mental and emotional fitness.
That’s why we’ve decided to offer up a few suggestions for wellbeing resources for students that might serve you in the more testing moments.
Student Minds
This mental health charity exists to offer wellbeing resources for students and education providers on their mental health websites.
This website provides loads of information about ways to improve your mental health, and even forms the basis of the Charter Awards Scheme which rewards universities that promote good mental health.
Here you’ll find links to additional support while you study as well as blogs and tips.
The Samaritans
One of the longest standing and most trustworthy lifelines that are out there, the Samaritans operates 365 days a year.
This one is ideal for anyone who just needs a confidential chat about their problems without fear of judgement.
The anonymity of being able to talk to someone that doesn’t know you at all can be liberating and you’ll feel a weight lifted off your shoulders.
Rape Crisis Service
The Rape Crisis Service provides specialist support to women and girls who have survived abuse at any time, whether it be recent or more historic.
Some students find that past traumas resurface at times of big change in their lives, such as becoming independent at university.
This service is dedicated to raising awareness and understanding of issues surrounding rape and abuse, and to supporting the needs of women and girls.
If this is you, don’t let your past become an obstacle to your future. Seek help and advice today.
Mind
This website is one of the most fantastic wellbeing resources for students. Run by the charity Mind, it provides advice and mental health support to those struggling with mental health difficulties.
They campaign to empower those who experience mental health issues, and to raise awareness of mental health.
Papyrus
This is undoubtedly one of the most important wellbeing resources for students and higher education providers.
Papyrus offers confidential help and advice from mental health professionals, in order to prevent suicide and to help those affected by suicide.
It’s quite literally a lifesaver, so keep it in mind if you should be faced with any of the issues related to suicide.
Kooth
Kooth is one of the most useful and practical wellbeing resources for students in their day to day lives.
It’s an application that you can download to your mobile phone.
You can use it to access counselling services, read articles and find resources for daily life, or even to organise your study timetable.
Well worth checking out!
Headspace
Sometimes all you need is to disconnect for half an hour.
That’s where Headspace comes in.
Headspace is used by many people as a means to access mindfulness techniques in their everyday lives.
Mindfulness has become increasingly popular in recent years, as it’s a tool designed to help people to focus on the present moment rather than fixating on problems or anxieties about the future or the past.
It’s the perfect tonic to help you unwind during or after stressful study sessions. (Just try not to fall asleep!)
Young Minds
This charity is the leading UK charity championing children and young people’s mental health.
Young Minds aims to offer a listening ear and companionship so that no young person feels alone or isolated, and that everyone gets the support they need when they need it.
Their website offers tips and advice on self-care, as well as ways to get involved in movements or simply seek counselling.
DSA – Disability Students Allowance
If you have a long-term illness, mental health problem, or disability, then make sure that you apply for DSA.
The government offers financial resources for those who qualify, to help cover extra costs such as travel, specialist equipment and anything which facilitates the student experience.
Talk to us
While you’re living away from home at university, it’s of the utmost importance that you feel safe and secure.
That’s why here at Novel we put your wellbeing first by providing security staff, study zones, wellbeing events, and even help and advice services.
When you stay with Novel, you’ll never have to feel alone. We are always happy to listen, and to answer any questions that you or your parents or carers may have.
If you’d like to know more about our wellbeing resources for students, get in touch today.