Supporting Wellbeing For Students This University Mental Health Day 2024
The demanding landscape of university life often brings with it challenges that can take a toll on students' mental health. University Mental Health Day, taking place on March 14th, plays a crucial role in raising awareness, fostering open conversations, and providing essential support for students facing mental health issues.
This day serves as a focal point for a myriad of events, workshops, and campaigns organised across the UK. It brings together institutions, student bodies, and organizations to address, destigmatize, and support mental health in higher education.
University Mental Health Day originated as a collaborative effort between student bodies and university health services. It emerged to address growing concerns about student mental health, acknowledging the unique pressures faced, including academic stress and socially. The day aims to keep mental wellbeing at the forefront of university priorities.
Why is University Mental Health Day So Important?
Student Minds' latest survey research highlighted some statistics that prove why University Mental Health Day is so important:
- 1 in 4 students has a diagnosed mental health issue.
- 30% reported a worsening of mental health since starting university.
- 1 in 4 students wouldn't know where to seek mental health support if needed.
How Can Students Find Support?
Are you a student worried about university life? You're not alone. The University Mental Health Advisor Network offers a advice on a range of issues students may face while at university.
Student Unions also provide support and drop-in sessions, accessible through university SU websites.
Enigma Wellness has shared our book Your Mental Health with 30 university Students’ Unions who were early adoptees of the University Mental Health Charter. This book, featuring expert advice and stories from figures like Gemma Styles that demystifies mental health, serves as a valuable resource for students navigating their own mental health journeys. You can find out more about Your Mental Health here: Your Mental Health (enigmawellness.co.uk)
Further Support Resources
Student Minds
Student Minds can offer support to all students through their Student Space portal:
- Student Space website: studentspace.org.uk
- Text ‘STUDENT’ to 85258 to start a conversation.
- Call 0808 189 5260, 7 days a week from 3 pm to 12 am.
UMHAN
- Explore support links for students via the advisory network website which can link you to your specific universities support services via https://www.umhan.com/pages/for-students
Nightline Association
A unique listening service for emotional support and information run by students for students.
- Visit their website:https://nightline.ac.uk/
Helplines for Immediate Support:
Samaritans
Samaritans are here to provide crisis support 24/7
- Freephone: 116 123
- Email: jo@samaritans.org
Visit their website for more information at https://www.samaritans.org/
SHOUT
SHOUT provide a 24/7 mental health text support service for the UK
- Text 'Shout' to 85258
Find out more about SHOUT on their website here https://giveusashout.org/
University Mental Health Day serves as a vital reminder that mental health matters, encouraging students to seek help and fostering a supportive community within the academic environment. Together we can ensure that universities prioritise wellbeing and create a culture where no student feels alone in their struggles.
