Every year on October 10th we celebrate World Mental Health Day. It is an opportunity to talk about mental health, connect with others and raise awareness of the support that is available. 

This World Mental Health Day, take stock of how you’ve been feeling lately. Many people experience changes in their mental health during their time at university. You may feel homesick, worry about money, find the pressure of study too much, or stress that you’re not fitting in. These feelings are very common and usually subside as you begin to settle more into university life.

However, for some people, they can become overwhelming and develop into depression or other types of mental health problems. There is no shame in admitting that you are having difficulty managing your mental health. 

Helping Yourself

It’s important to notice when your mental wellbeing may be slipping. If you begin to feel like this, there are some simple things you can do to try to improve your mental health: 

• Keep in touch with family and/or friends.
• Make time to do things you enjoy.
• Look after yourself through good diet and exercise.
• Talk to people you trust. 

You may not feel you need to get in touch with our Support Services  but are looking for ways to improve your mental health. The Wellbeing Service has lots of resources to help manage your wellbeing:

Help Yourself Hub

The Help Yourself Hub provides information on self-help resources, support groups, campaigns, awareness days and much more.

Student Life Handbook

The Student Life Handbook has tips and advice on maintaining good mental and physical health, and how to access support if you need it:

Student Life Handbook (English)

Llawlyfr Bywyd Myfyriwr (Welsh)

Wellbeing Workshops

In the Moment

Tuesday 11 October, 5.00pm - 6.30pm, Newport Campus

Wednesday 12 October, 4.00pm - 5.30pm, Treforest Campus

Tuesday 18 October, 5.00pm - 6.30pm, Cardiff Campus

Therapy Hounds

Wednesday 19 October, 6.00pm - 7.00pm, Cardiff Campus

Identifying and Managing your Mental Health

Tuesday 25 October, 5.00pm - 7.00pm, Cardiff Campus

Thursday 27 October, 5.00pm - 7.00pm, Newport Campus

Getting Support

It is important to remember that whatever issues you may be facing, you do not have to face them alone. It may be that you have an existing mental health condition or that your health has worsened, and you no longer feel you can manage this yourself. The Wellbeing Service is here for you, offering a range of practical support in a confidential, professional setting.

Wellbeing Advice Appointments are a first point of contact to the Wellbeing Service and provide you with an opportunity to discuss your university support, mental health, and well-being. Appointments are 30-minutes long and are available on campus, by telephone, and Microsoft Teams, and can be booked via Advice Zone Online.

Resources

Mental Health Foundation

Time to Change Wales

Student Minds

Student Space