Looking after your mental health at university

12th Nov 2017

For me personally, coming to Warwick is the best decision I’ve ever made. I am studying a subject that I love, on a beautiful campus, surrounded by some of the most talented and like-minded people that I’ve ever met.

But the truth is, while these past two (and a bit) years have been incredible, university is hard work. It comes as part of the package when you’re studying at one of the best institutions in the world, all while trying to maintain a healthy social life, think about future careers, and cook a decent meal every now and then!

For the most part it’s manageable to juggle all these things- work is doable if you’re organised and keep track of deadlines and by making sure you don’t go outnight of the week! Sometimes though, often for no apparent reason, things can get a bit too much. Anything from stress to a serious mental health issue can throw you off course, and make already challenging work a lot harder.

You will never be able to do your best academically if you aren’t looking after yourself physically and mentally. Whether you’re stressed with an assignment or are struggling with your mental health, the most important thing is to try and look after yourself. This can be as simple as making sure you’re eating healthily, getting enough sleep and taking time to relax even during periods where deadlines are looming, but sometimes this might not be enough.

If this is case then it is important to get the help you need, and there is plenty available to you here at Warwick. Obviously, the system isn’t perfect and I can’t speak for everyone, but from my own experiences the staff at the university (and in the chemistry department) are dedicated to making sure you feel supported in your university experience.

The chemistry department runs a mentoring scheme for first year students, providing them with a mentor from a year above. I was a mentor for a group of freshers last year and have seen the dedication of the mentoring team in giving the new students the support they need both academically and pastorally. This is a great scheme to allow you to get advice or signposting from another student if you don’t feel like you can talk to a member of staff.

Your personal tutor is also always there to help with any problems you might have, and if they can’t give you the help you need they can point you in the direction of someone who can. As well as this, the university itself has services available to students. Making an appointment at the health centre on campus is easy to do, and a counselling service is there for anyone who wants to use it. The SU also has a helpline called Nightline that you can call.

The point I’m trying to get across is that if ever you have a problem at university, there will be somewhere you can go or someone you can talk to. Whether that be making use of the services university provides or simply talking to a friend, Warwick really is a community where you can find someone to help.

If you, or anyone you know is struggling do not hesitate to:

Talk to friends, family or your personal tutor
Contact the Warwick SU Nightline:***** *** ***
Contact the University of Warwick Student Counselling Service by phone: ***** *** *** or by email:counselling@warwick.ac.uk
Talk to your GP (University Health centre telephone:(024) 76524888)

(Additional mental health helplines)