MANAGING STRESS & ANXIETY

Starting uni is full of new experiences, new friends, new surroundings and, for most, a completely new way of life. This should be a really exciting time, but feeling stressed and anxious is completely normal for most students. Here’s how to cope…

In a recent UniHealth survey, 82% of firstand second-year student respondents at UK universities said they were suffering from stress and 45% have experienced depression. It’s unsurprising in some respects – starting university is a big life step and one that often requires major upheaval. It’s likely you’ll have moved away from your home, mates and family. You need to make new friends, orientate different surroundings and deal with new academic pressures. Add in the burden of student debt, dayto-day financial concerns and pressure to have an amazing

Getting Help

Whilst mental health awareness has become more prominent in recent years, lots of people still struggle to come forward and seek help. Often, they feel embarrassed or weak, especially when they believe they should be having the time of their life.

The good news is that there are various places

‘uni experience’ and it’s no surprise that sometimes life can seem overwhelming. For some students, it’s exceptionally challenging – one in five respondents in the UniHealth survey said they have had suicidal feelings. What’s more alarming is that only 25% of students experiencing stress and depression said they would seek help. Many others said they were “too embarrassed” or they were unaware that help was available to them. to go to for help – speaking to a parent or a friend could be a good place to start. Going to see someone at your uni’s counselling service or your GP is another good option – they understand the pressures on students and can offer bespoke support. If you prefer to speak to someone confidentially, you can call the

One of the biggest challenges when starting uni is that everyone appears to be coping well and taking the new experience in their stride. They seem to have made friends, post amazing photos on Instagram, and hand in all of their assignments on time. But, behind the scenes, the reality is often completely different. There are very few people who don’t suffer from stress or anxiety at some point, so it’s important to realise that you’re not alone or different.

Samaritans (free on 116 123) or text, e-mail or call Nightline (www.nightline.ac.uk), which is an overnight listening service run by students for students between 8pm and 8am.

Remember that it takes strength and courage to say you need support, and no one will ever judge you for seeking it.