Today is World Mental Health Day, one in four of us will experience a mental health problem.
That number is rising with first year students, a Student Experience survey shows that almost nine in ten of first year students find it difficult to cope with University life.
We understand that University is a difficult transitional period in a young persons life, having to deal with social anxieties, academic stresses and financial burden everyday.
Our best bit of advice for those that struggle with mental health, is to open up and talk to friends and family, it’s seems obvious but it really makes such a difference. People will listen and will want to help you. It’s also just as important to recognise if someone suffers with mental health and to be that support for them.
If you are experiencing mental health problems, go to your Student representatives for help, alternatively there are lots of support listed below.
Mind Infoline
Telephone: 0300 123 3393 (9am-5pm Monday to Friday) Email: info@mind.org.uk Web site: www.mind.org.uk/help/advice_lines
Mind provides confidential mental health information services.
With support and understanding, Mind enables people to make informed choices. The Infoline gives information on types of mental distress, where to get help, drug treatments, alternative therapies and advocacy. Mind also has a network of nearly 200 local Mind associations providing local services.
Rethink Mental Illness Advice Line
Telephone: 0300 5000 927 (10am-2pm Monday to Friday) Email: info@rethink.org Website: http://www.rethink.org/about-us/our-mental-health-advice
Provides expert advice and information to people with mental health problems and those who care for them, as well as giving help to health professionals, employers and staff. Rethink also runs Rethink services and groups across England and Northern Ireland.
Saneline
Telephone: 0845 767 8000 (6pm-11pm) Website: www.sane.org.uk/what_we_do/support/helpline
Saneline is a national mental health helpline providing information and support to people with mental health problems and those who support them.
Elefriends
Website: http://elefriends.org.uk/
Elefriends is a supportive online community where you can be yourself. Elefriends is run by Mind.
If you’re a carer needing support you can contact all of the above as well as Carers Direct and the Princess Royal Trust for Carers, both of whom are able to provide support and advice on any issues affecting you.
#WorldmentalHealthDay, Let’s help each other!