Taking Care of Your Mental Health at University

Do Things That Actually Make You Feel Better

With life going at what feels like 100 mph, it's easy to forget to take a break. The thing is, there are some really easy ways to make sure you’re taking some time out.

Get moving

Exercise genuinely helps. It releases endorphins that help you de-stress and focus better. You don’t have to put in ten-hour gym sessions, either. Start small. Short walks between lectures, a YouTube workout or a walk with friends all count.

Get offline

Scrolling can last hours without you realising. Go outside! See some friends, join a society, or meet classmates for coffee. It’ll do way more for your mood than another hour on the phone.

Experiencing loneliness at uni? Here’s what you can do.

Sort Out Your Space

A tidy room can help you feel calmer and more in control. Ten minutes of tidying when things feel chaotic gives you a quick win when you need it.

We also have a handy guide if you’re feeling homesick at university.

Look After Your Body Too

What you do physically affects how you feel mentally. Small changes can make a huge difference.

Sleep properly

Lack of sleep makes everything harder. You won’t be able to concentrate, which’ll leave you feeling a lot worse. Avoid alcohol and get off any devices and screens at least one hour before bed. 

Eat food that helps

You don't need a perfect diet, but what you eat does matter. Swapping some of the sugary stuff for fruit keeps your energy stable and mood balanced. Carrots, grapefruit and apples have actually been linked to better mental health.

If you're drinking a lot, keep an eye on it. Alcohol might feel like it helps with anxiety in the moment, but too much can make everything worse later on.

Ask for Help When You Need It

One in four people goes through mental health struggles. There's zero shame in reaching out. It's actually one of the smartest things you can do. Here are some of your options:

University counselling

Most universities offer free counselling. You can talk through what's going on with someone trained to help, and they can sort things like deadline extensions if you need them. Services can get busy, so don't wait until you're really struggling.

Your Student Union (SU)

Your SU exists to have your back. They've got advice centres for money stress, housing and loneliness, all the stuff that affects students. They also have liberation officers who can support you with your identity or background.

Your GP

Your GP will work with you to find out what’s wrong and help by making suggestions, prescribing medication or referring you to a specialist. Write down how you’re feeling over a few days and bring that to your appointment.

Nightline

Loads of unis run Nightline, a confidential listening service run by students, for students. It's open 8pm to 8am (6pm to 8pm for London unis) during term via phone, email or messaging. No judgment, just someone who gets it.

Helplines that are always there

If you need to talk to someone now:

• Samaritans: 116 123 (24/7. For anyone struggling with anything

• Calm: 0800 585858 (5pm–midnight). Support for young men aged between 15 and 35

• HopeLine UK: 0800 068 4141 or text 88247(Mon–Fri 10am–5pm & 7pm–10pm, weekends 2pm–5pm). If you’re experiencing suicidal thoughts

• SaneLine: 0300 304 7000 (4pm–10pm). Specialist mental health support

• The Mix: 0808 808 4994 (4pm–11pm). For under-25s dealing with anything

• Shout: Text 85258 for urgent help

You’re not alone

Missing home, making friends, managing money, staying on top of work. It's a lot to handle all at once. If you're finding it tough, that doesn't mean you're doing it wrong. There are so many students going through the same thing.

If you're really struggling, even in your first week, tell someone. Your uni has wellbeing teams and mental health pros whose entire job is supporting students like you.

University can be amazing. Looking after your mental health means you'll actually be able to enjoy it.