Student Life - February 2018

ISSUE 13 • FEBRUARY 2018

Lifestyle Magazine for the Students of Suffolk

www.student-life.co

Proud supporter of

Cover photo from STUDENT LIFE image library

STUDENT Life

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Editor’s

WORD

Best wishes, Rachel Gilbey Co-editor

Contents...

CONTACT US 01473 35 35 12 rachel@student-life.co www.student-life.co Snapchat : studentlifesc FB : @studentlifedigital

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Welcome to February’s edition of Student Life. For students at college and sixth form, you will now be settled into your second term and I’m sure essays and coursework are well underway. At the University of Suffolk, many students have already returned to study but we are also preparing for the arrival of a new intake of students. With the arrival of new students comes a week of activities and events hosted by the Students’ Union. Much like Freshers week which takes place in September, Re:Freshers Week takes place midway through February. It’s an opportunity for new students to be inducted into University life, to meet their peers and for returning students, it’s a ‘welcome back’ and chance to refresh before exams and assignments take over! There are a range of activities suited for all types of students from club nights to family friendly activities, from film showings to theme park trips! It’s a very exciting time and an opportunity to showcase Student Life to new students too.

Last month we introduced our shiny and new Mental Health sub-section and it’s now an important monthly feature in Student Life. It is so important to raise awareness and we hope that through the articles, tips and questions printed month by month, we can help to break down the stigma and encourage people to talk. If you’d like to get involved, please contact Leanne Arnold at leanne@student-life.co Have a great month and see you in our next issue!

STUDENT STYLE Date Night ....................................................................................................... 4-5 STUDENT BEAUTY Begin with Skincare ............................................................................... 6-8 STUDENT SAFETY Policing In Our Community ............................................................10-11 STUDENT REVIEW Rory’s Film Reviews ......................................................................... 12-15 STUDENT SUPPORT Parkside Academy .........................................................................18-19 STUDENT HEALTH Mental Health Magazine ............................................................... 23-40 2 • FEBRU ARY 2018 • S T UD E N T L I FE

AT THE LOCK

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DATE NIGHT WHAT TO WEAR Love it or loathe it, there’s no escaping that Valentine’s Day is fast approaching and love is in the air.

Finding the perfect date may present its difficulties, but your outfit need not.

Nothing says Valentine’s Day quite like the colour RED, however think smart and perhaps indulge in a splash of RED within your chosen outfits to celebrate the traditional Valentine colour?

WITH FASHION EXPERT PAM DAVIS

COCKTAILS

This may lead to dinner or dancing, so keep it smart casual and comfortable!

CINEMA

You can be slightly more casual, however tailored items and smart shoes are a must! If you are going to the theatre, smarter heels will complement any outfit.

DINNER DATES/FINE DINING

Most of us panic as to what to wear… this is mainly because you may not know what your date has planned?

This is the chance for you to go all out glamour/smart to impress your date, whilst looking super stylish.

Let’s make this simple and cover all possibilities.

ACTIVE DATES/BOWLING/ ROMANTIC WALKS

FIRST DATES

Keep it simple, but smart, you want to impress so not too casual. Dresses and heels are always a great option.

Just because you are indulging in this type of date, this doesn’t mean your outfit has to be bland! Keep things Chic with stylish jeans and tops, to continue to impress your date.

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NIGHT IN WITH A MEAL AND NETFLIX

These are the perfect nights, to get cosy and comfortable… however make sure you keep the attire smart.

VALENTINES WITH FRIENDS

This is pretty simple, glam up in a playful way and have fun!

MEN YOU ARE EQUALLY IMPORTANT AS THE LADIES.

It is wise to opt for a semi-formal look.

Wearing casuals might make you look too laid back, while a formal outfit will make you feel a little too cold for the warm atmosphere. Team up a pair of dark jeans with a formal shirt. Tailored jackets make a statement as it is one item that never goes out of style.

Nothing ruins your look more than dirty shoes. Most women draw out their inferences about a man’s behaviour by looking at their feet.

Wearing good shoes is a must to impress women, but wearing clean shoes is what impresses them further.

So, go ahead and wear a good pair of loafers keeping in mind your semiformal attire and make it a point to see that they’re squeaky clean.

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GOLDEN RULES Valentine RED is a must somewhere within your attire Always make sure you are comfortable in what you are wearing (inc shoes) Dress according to the occasion Make sure your outfit flatters your body shape Don’t wear anything too small or too baggy Select colours that suit your skin tone Accessories are a must and complement any outfit, but keep to a minimum Don’t overdo it!

ENJOY…because you are worth it!

GET IN TOUCH E: pamela@fashioncandy.co.uk M: 07713 095355 www.fashioncandy.co.uk S T UD E N T L I FE

STUDENT Beauty

Great Make-Up begins with Great Skincare WRITTEN BY STUDENT LIFE’S BEAUTY PARTNER - ROSIE MAY Our skin is one of the most important parts of our body and it is vital that we look after it properly. Makeup is a very good way of hiding certain flaws on our skin, for example spots and blemishes. However, it is definitely better to target the problem right at the root. If we target skincare, then it will make our makeup look even more flawless! I am allergic to Lanolin which is an ingredient used in a lot of skincare products and soaps, meaning I have to be even more careful when finding the right products for me!

I suffer from the odd spot and blemish, however I have been through stages of bad acne. Certain skincare products helped me to battle the blemishes, but also how frequently I was using these products was equally as important. Ideally, we should be giving our face the skincare pampering it deserves every morning and night (before you apply your makeup and after you take it off). Even if you’re not a wearer of makeup, this is still as important as these are the times your skin can be most oily or dry depending on your skin type. I know it’s very easy to be busy and end up not having time, but waking up an extra 15 minutes earlier or making sure you remember to do your skincare in the evening can have huge advantages over a long period of time!

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MY MORNING ROUTINE After I wake up, I always wash my face with some form of face wash. I suffer from an oily T-Zone so waking up in the mornings is when it’s at its worst! I wash my face using the Simple Foam Cleanser because I love how it feels on my skin and it battles my oiliness perfectly. I will then move onto my morning skincare routine, before going ahead with makeup. I start off by using some Eye Masks. Mine are from a company called Grace and Stella and they are gold which is SO cute. They are an American company, however you can get some products on Amazon. I use these just after I wash my face so that they are going onto fresh skin. These Eye Masks help to tackle my puffiness and dullness under my eyes due to just waking up (especially if it is before 8am!). These really help to hydrate my under-eye area too. I love them! They have to stay on for 20 minutes so, whilst I wait, I apply the Liz Earle Superskin Face Serum. It has naturally active ingredients so it’s really great for your skin and doesn’t have any harsh chemicals in. I apply this before my moisturiser, as I find this way works really well for my skin. The moisturiser I use is the Bobbi Brown Hydrating Face Cream. This product is a little pricey at £42, however it makes my skin feel super smooth! After all of this I will then take off the Eye Masks, massage the remainder of the solution into my skin and then apply my makeup!

CONTINUED ON THE NEXT PAGE...

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MY EVENING ROUTINE I use a lot more products during my evening routine purely because I want to ensure all of the dirt and makeup is completely out of my pores. This is one of the main reasons people get spots and blemishes, so it is really important if you want to eliminate those skin problems!

I start off by taking my makeup off using some Micellar Wipes from Primark. You can get two packs for £1 and they work really well! I have very sensitive skin, so I tend to react badly to a lot of brands of makeup wipes, however I have never had an issue with Primark ones! I then use the Liz Earle Hot Cloth Cleanser. Liz Earle is one of my favourite brands of skincare! The products are amazing and even though it is a little more pricey, they do gift sets full of different products at very reasonable prices! The Hot Cloth Cleanser is one of their most popular products, and I use it after my wipes to ensure my face is fully cleansed and free of

Instagram - @rosiestewartbeauty_ YouTube - Rosie Stewart Beauty Blog - rosiestewartbeauty.wordpress.com

dirt! I massage this into my skin and wipe off with the warm cloth. I then use a Liz Earle mask. It depends on how my skin has been that day as to which one I use, but I am no stranger to multi-masking! I often use the brightening mask under my eyes and then the deep cleansing mask all over my face. I leave this on for 15-20 minutes and usually pluck my eyebrows while I’m bored and waiting! If you’re looking for a cheaper alternative, the Garnier Sheet Masks are incredible for moisture. They are around £3 and you get one mask in there. They make your skin feel brand new! I then exfoliate the mask off using a sponge and apply some of the Liz Earle Instant Boost Skin Tonic. You can apply any tonic, but it really helps to lock the moisture into place and smooth out your skin texture. Finally, if my skin is playing up I will apply some night cream to sleep in, in order to battle any skin problems. I love using the Simple Night Cream, as it has green tea infused in it which is really good for your skin.

I switch up my routines from time to time to ensure my skin isn’t getting too used to the products, otherwise they will stop having the same effect. There are cheap alternatives to any high end products; Boots and Superdrug will always have a huge selection to choose from! One top tip is to look at the ingredients of products you’re buying. See what good ingredients it has to ensure you’re not being ripped off. Always avoid products with alcohol in as this is really bad for your skin, and read the descriptions to see if it will be the right product for your skin type! Always massage right into the skin and do it as frequently as you can, otherwise it won’t have a huge effect! A perfect canvas means a perfect painting!

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fancy yourself

BEHIND THE CAMERA? Attention all keen photographers We are running a monthly competition to find the following month’s magazine cover. Entries to be emailed only to media@ student-life.co

TERMS Amateur photographers only.

One entry per person.

Original photo only - no filters.

Portrait orientation only.

Submit as high-res Jpeg.

Please note clear space required at the top of the photo.

ISSUE 08 • SEPTEMBER 2017

Lifestyle Magazine for the Students of Ipswich

Proud supporter of

Photo by CONRAD YOUNG using an iPhone 7

STUDENT Life

13 • S E P T E M B E R 2017 • WAT E R F RO N T L I F E

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prevention, problem-solving, community engagement, and partnerships.

The community policing model balances reactive responses to calls for service with proactive problem-solving, centred on the causes of crime and disorder.

Community policing requires police, the public and our partners to work together.

POLICING IN OUR COMMUNITIES Darren Oxbrow is a Sergeant in the Suffolk Constabulary, heading up the C & YP and Schools Engagement team. In the first of a regular series of articles written by the Team, Darren gives a brief overview of the problems of substance misuse that we in society and within our own neighbourhoods, need to address. We want to create debate with young people and show that the Police are an active community partner; both looking to find solutions, but open to views and ideas from the public.

WRITTEN BY DARREN OXBROW

I suppose the question is “What constitutes Community Policing?” and within that what are the expectations of the public.

Community policing, focuses on crime and social disorder through the delivery of a police service that includes aspects of traditional law enforcement, as well as

So, by its own wording Community requires us all to take an active interest in how our neighbourhood is policed. I suppose if we all accept responsibility, work together and make the community our business - for example knowing who lives in our homes, holding regular neighbourhood meetings and having a better social and interactive connection with those who live in our locality - we would undertake and deliver a lot of this work.

Has the diverse nature of our communities, the change in our activities and our means of communication, pushed us all into a state of isolation and self- obsession?

At this moment in time Suffolk Constabulary is going through change and I would suspect that the change may impact on our ability to provide Community policing that the public want or desire.

Suffolk Constabulary is currently contemplating how it intends to work with our neighbourhoods and communities in the future.

Can we continue to have officers patrolling our streets, their attendance at neighbourhood meetings, their support at community events and their engagement with schools and other young people establishments? All of the above is important to ensure Police continue to be part of each and every community; having those continued links so the public know where to go and who to speak with in order for their concerns and issues to be listened to and also acted upon.

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But likewise, the police also want this to be a two way communication - so there is a need to have some serious thought around our ability to provide a police service which continues to have the Community and our neighbourhoods at the heart of it.

Who takes the lead and is responsible for community activities?

The police will lead on crime and incidents which require investigation, but this should not be a lonely path for the police, there should be adequate support from the community. This could be providing information, informing the police of ongoing local issues & suspicious activity; the public looking for and finding solutions to their own problems and delivering their own crime prevention and crime reduction advice.

The police can’t be everywhere or see everything. But we have a huge number of eyes and ears in the community who can.

Schools, doctors, social care teams, health visitors, milkmen, postmen, refuge workers, care homes for the elderly, housing organisations, childcare centres and other educational or residential establishments, plus shops, cafés, garages, restaurants, churches and volunteers; all these and more are part of and have a responsibility to respond to community issues.

Standing together, showing a united front, being a good neighbour are all important if we are to rid our communities of crime. Often people ignore cries for help and assistance.

We are, at times, too afraid to speak out or get involved, but we can if we all do it as a collective and have a supportive network around us. This is about asking the Community, “What can you do to make Suffolk a safer place to live, work, travel and invest?”.

We all know that the requirement of the police service is to investigate and detect crime, especially around violent crime and those which cause communities the greatest impact and concerns.

Does having a Police officer or Police Community Support Officer walking through your local estate in fact prevent crime? Should the police continue to offer reassurance patrols, high visibility policing, proactive patrols in high crime locations? Is this balanced against the need to make savings, address the reduction in staff, the more demanding needs and a change in behaviours & offending, linked to on-line activity?

I believe Suffolk Constabulary is in a good place and offers its communities a good service around Community Policing. We have our Neighbourhood teams, we have a network of Police Community Support Officers and we have a schools’ programme, all with excellent engagement and joint working.

But there are still opportunities to improve.

Community Policing requires us all to work together. Suffolk Police is committed to community policing and continues to build those strong relationships with both our partners and the communities we serve.

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RORY’S WRITTEN BY RORY BATHGATE

On paper, this should have equalled a resounding success for the studio; surely the combined appeal of fanfavourites Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman (fresh off the triumph of her debut film this May) should have drawn in audiences? Not so much.

Marvel spent the four years between 2008’s Iron Man and The Avengers releasing solo ventures for each member of the titular team (The Incredible Hulk, Iron Man 2, Thor, Captain America), thereby ensuring that when it came time for the heroes to work together, audiences knew who they were dealing with. In between Man of Steel and Justice League, DC have barely managed to solidify who Batman and Superman are, let alone introduce newcomers Aquaman, Cyborg and the Flash. The result is that audiences watch Justice Five films in to the DCEU, Warner Brothers have attempted to replicate League with a mixture of bemusement and confusement, the success of Marvel’s 2012 smashwith characters talking to one hit The Avengers, a team-up of another with a jokey familiarity epic proportions in which all of the that would be acceptable if we franchise’s most popular heroes knew the characters half as meet on screen for the first time well as they seem to know one another. (barring after-credits scenes).

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J U S T I C E L E AG U E None of the characters really take full form at any point in the film - despite the apocalyptic threat facing them, they meander from scene to scene relying on quips and intertextual references alone to give themselves any sense of depth, without success. There are some genuinely funny moments, with Flash and Aquaman providing some welcome humour in contrast to the gritty dullness of previous ventures such as Batman vs Superman.

But they’re too little too late in a franchise that has already lost its sense of self, and often jokes fall flat; Batman is a particular offender, switching between brooding and absurd on a dime.

The start of the film offered hope Batman pursuing a goon across the dreary Gotham skyline is a scene that could come out of any of his comic or film appearances. After a short, intense fight sequence, Batman dangles the criminal over a ledge, in what has to be a call-back to Tim Burton’s Batman, as well as Nolan’s Batman Begins. So far so good, but things quickly get out of hand. The scene proceeds to devolve into an eye-glazing mesh of CGI that looks more like a cut scene from a videogame than anything a $300

RORY’S RATING

million blockbuster ought to present.

“One misses the days when one’s biggest concerns were exploding, wind-up penguins” muses Batman’s butler Alfred, played reluctantly by Jeremy Irons, at one point in the film.

It’s a cheeky line - a nod towards the camp 60s Batman that’s exactly the kind of self-referential banter so characteristic of acting-director Joss Whedon. The problem is, he’s right; faced with demi-gods, ancient evils and hordes of computer-rendered baddies, I found myself longing for the simpler plotlines of Batman old.

Perhaps if DC spent less time playing catch-up, and more time trying to recapture what made properties like classic Batman so engaging, enduring and, well, fun, we would be facing a much different film today.

What’s most tragic about the film is the wasted potential it exudes.

One would expect that with a roster of some of the most famous superheroes in the world, and nearly 80 years of comic book storylines to draw upon, Warner Brothers would be able to produce a piece more befitting its godlike characters.

Director: Zack Snyder Runtime: 120mins Certificate: 12A

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RORY’S WRITTEN BY RORY BATHGATE

When Rian Johnson was announced as the director of the eighth Star Wars outing back in 2014, it was met with mixed reactions from fans and critics alike.

Known by most only for his 2012 sci-fi flick Looper, which was well received by critics but failed to resonate with audiences, Johnson seemed like an odd, even risky, choice to head the second film of Disney’s ‘Sequel Trilogy’.

Now, three years later, the choice makes sense. Just as J.J. Abrams was the right pick to reintroduce audiences to Star Wars, Johnson is the right pick to take audiences on a new journey, in new ways, whilst retaining what makes Star Wars, Star Wars.

Mark Hamill’s return is a triumphant one, delivering one of the best performances of his career as an embittered Luke Skywalker reluctant to play mentor to Daisy Ridley’s Rey. What’s most impressive is how effortlessly Hamill appears to sink into the role, naturally but intriguingly progressing the character that

audiences know and love. Adam Driver is also deserving of commendation - far removed from the somewhat angsty Kylo of The Force Awakens, here the character is brought to new and surprising heights, a testament to both the writing of director Johnson and Driver’s acting ability. Carrie Fisher turns in a respectable final performance, having shot all of her scenes prior to her tragic passing in 2016 - her role in the film does make one wonder, however, how much plans for the overall plot have changed in the wake of her absence.

There are, it must be said, disappointments to be found within as well. The plot breaks the characters apart in a rather scattered approach, leaving the audience with three plotlines to follow, and at times this proves too much; the prolonged escapades of Rose and Finn on the casino planet of Canto Bight, for example, leaves one yearning to return to the frankly more interesting goings on of Luke and Rey. Those who worry about Disney’s control over Star Wars might also take this film as reason to worry - the humour throughout comes across as a bit too ‘studio friendly’, and is comparable to the constant quipping to be found in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. That having been

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S TA R WA R S - T H E L A S T J E D I said, there are many funny scenes in the film - Johnson’s claims that his film wouldn’t be the dark and brooding sequel the marketing presented are proven true, with characters such as the Ahch-To caretakers and Domhnall Gleeson’s Commander Hux earning well earned laughs in the theatre.

As far as sound and visuals go, there is nothing to complain about here; as ever, the folks at Industrial Light and Magic turn out shots that defy belief. A particular scene involving a lightspeed jump towards the end of the film has to be mentioned - the awe was palpable throughout in the theatre I attended.

The lightsaber fights, a cornerstone of Star Wars, also receive a welcome makeover, with Ridley and Driver exhibiting their own distinctive fighting styles in truly breathtaking fashion.

RORY’S RATING

Despite a somewhat clunky plot and too much screen-time for its own good, Star Wars: The Last Jedi is a triumph; boasting gorgeous visuals, fan favourites and exciting new directions for the series, it leaves one fulfilled and entertained in a way that many blockbusters fail to.

Director: Rian Johnson Runtime: 155mins Certificate: 12A

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STUDENT Travel

BAGS OF

TIME

Travelling with Attitude WRITTEN BY CLAIRE KING

Our series of monthly articles invites readers to send in light-hearted stories of their travel experiences.

As the choice of 3 lift doors in the 4th floor elevator foyer eventually pings in recognition of the middle shaft being available to descend in, I breathe a heavy sigh of acceptance and press ‘G’.

‘15 MINUTES EARLIER….’

I approach the reception desk at the city centre hotel that will be my home for the next 3 days and announce my surname. As I have found before in similar scenarios, the receptionist waits a few seconds (as if I’m going to follow this with “……of Sweden”), realises I’ve given my surname and presses a few buttons on her keyboard, before stating “sorry we don’t have a reservation in that name”. Off we go again, with another check-in fiasco. I’ve already booked online, paid and added breakfast, so I am once again baffled at why I can’t just be given my keycard and be sent in the direction of the lifts.

But…..I now give my company name in case (and I know it will have done) the

hotel computer has read the second line of my booking and not the first and hey presto…..my booking is found.

A piece of A4 is slid in my direction and I am asked to add my nationality (I’m in Basingstoke, so not overly important) and my car registration number (n/a) (I put that once and the receptionist said “oh a personalised number plate – how nice”) and I sign the form. Next, I am asked if I would like to pre-authorise a credit card so that I can charge items to my room.

I can’t help myself (I always do this…) and ask how much the pre-auth will be for? I am told £50.00. I tell my new nemesis that I will drink that in Pinot tonight, so do I have to come back tomorrow to pre-pay again? At this stage, the business-suited hotel rep has got my measure and politely says “no”.

My keycard is eventually in my grasp and I am indeed pointed in the direction of the lifts, one of which I am destined to descend in again much quicker than I should be.

‘PRESENT DAY….’

The lift doors slide open to indicate my arrival at ‘G’. I walk over to the reception desk, wait 8 minutes due to understaffing, request my keycard be ‘re-cut’ as it doesn’t work, go back up in the lift to ‘4’ and hope that this is not a remake of Groundhog Day.

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AGE? Class of ‘78… hanging on to my 30s by my fingernails!

OCCUPATION? (Officially) Priest in charge St Helen’s, Holy Trinity and St Luke’s and Anglican Chaplain of University of Suffolk and Suffolk New College WHAT OCCUPATION DID YOU DREAM OF GROWING UP? I had

a bizarre fascination in the diplomatic service / ambassadorial work… too many Ferrero Rocher ads on TV in those days.

WHAT WAS THE LAST PHOTO THAT YOU TOOK ON YOUR ‘PHONE?

Q& A TOM ROUT

Vicar of Waterfront Churches WHAT WAS THE LAST THING THAT YOU BOUGHT FOR LESS THAN £20?

Regular fries and regular Coke Zero

BUNGEE, PARACHUTE, SKYDIVE OR TERRA FIRMA? I’m not one for rollercoasters

and amusement parks… so definitely terra firma!

HOW MUCH MONEY WOULD TEMPT YOU ON TO A REALITY SHOW AND WHAT WOULD THE SHOW BE?

Bizarrely it was of a whiteboard in the chaplaincy office - capturing a mind-map after a piece of review work.

My daughters would love me to go on Strictly but I’ve told them that daddy dancing isn’t a recognised genre.

WHAT WAS THE LAST MUSIC THAT YOU PURCHASED/DOWNLOADED?

IF YOU COULD HAVE PERSONALLY WITNESSED AN HISTORIC EVENT, WHICH EVENT WOULD IT HAVE BEEN?

Pentatonix’s That’s Christmas to me (a gift for someone) YOU GO TO A RESTAURANT THAT SERVES EVERY CUISINE IN THE WORLD, WHAT STARTER DO YOU ORDER? Too hard! How do you choose?

Moules mariniere would leave me plenty of space for a big main!

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST THOUGHT WHEN YOU WOKE UP THIS MORNING? It’s Tuesday… so I’m

Noah’s Ark (assuming I was on board!)

YOUR SIGNATURE DISH? To paraphrase carmaker Henry Ford, “I’ll cook you anything you like, so long as it’s pasta” LAST BOOK THAT YOU COULDN’T PUT DOWN? The Strange Death of Europe by

Douglas Murray .

THE ONE WORD THAT DESCRIBES YOU BEST? My wife has a few…! I might say

(CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE...)

empathetic - but that really depends what meeting a vicar colleague for breakfast in… less than 35 minutes!17 • FEBRU ARY 2018others • S Tthink!

UD E N T L I FE

STUDENT Support

PARKSIDE WRITTEN BY ERIN JELINSKA (YEAR 10)

Parkside Academy is a close-knit community. The teachers have far less students to teach, because form groups consist of less than 10 students. This means that lessons are less cluttered and busy, making what you can do in the classroom more flexible. Having such smaller groups helps strengthen the bond between teacher and pupil, and teachers can give more support to students who need it. The smaller learning environment is beneficial for students with mental health issues, autism and learning difficulties.

In some lessons, students have the freedom to listen to music in class through earphones or headphones. The majority of the time, students really benefit from this

privilege, which can help concentration and focus in lessons, since the background noise and conversations going on in different classrooms is less audible.

The curriculum altogether at Parkside is quite unique. However, like other schools, we do core subjects, tests, mocks and get homework (which is fortunately optional!), but here at our school we have lessons such as Jigsaw, ASDAN, Enrichment, Project Based Learning and Transition.

Enrichment is a double period in which students from KS3 (Years 7, 8 & 9) join together and work in mixed groups with teachers and staff, focusing on team building skills and collaboration. This is all activity based.

Project Based Learning is a mix of English, Maths and Science and is also a lesson involving KS3 students. The teachers and students in years 7 and 8 plan the work to be done in the lesson. All of the subjects feed into a driving question, such as ‘Could we colonise another planet?’ which has been a recent project in Year 9.

Transition is build-on work which begins towards the end of Year 10. Students get the support they need for plans for when they leave high school: going on to sixth form, college, university and work.

Jigsaw isn’t a specific topic or lesson, but one with multiple choices. These choices are enterprise (art), sport, guitar and drumming. The musical aspects of Jigsaw are taught by professional teachers with

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genuine experience. There are guitars provided by the school which students can use with permission from staff. In enterprise, you can make scrapbooks, paint & sketch, make pom-poms, whatever you’d like! (within reason) ASDAN is projects that students work on which are based on what they’d like to do.

Each student will do a different challenge led by their personal interests. You turn ASDAN into a lesson full of things you like.

You don’t necessarily get work assigned to you.

In Life Skills, we use the unit award system, which is tailored to the needs of students.

This involves using public transport, going to a café, ordering something and paying and doing things that build confidence in public spaces. This really helps pupils come out of their shell and become more independent. Life Skills at Parkside doesn’t completely involve going out of school and into town, but work is also done within the school building. Unit awards can be done within the comfort of the classroom, such as learning how to wash clothes by what symbols are on the labels, making a hot drink with a microwave, etc.

English, Maths and Science have nothing particularly unusual about them. In English we do language and literature. In mainstream, both are mandatory but here they are more flexible and student centred.

Decisions about which path students will take are in collaboration, rather than being inflicted on students. If a student is really struggling, their emotional well-being is taken into account rather than the focus being solely on academic progress. In English, Maths and Science the curriculum is the same as any other school, but the teacher’s approach is what makes it different.

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TERRY HIGGINS

SUFFOLK C-CARD SCHEME Free condoms for under 25s WRITTEN BY ANDY TURNER

WHAT IS IT? The Suffolk c-card scheme is a free condom distribution service run by Terrence Higgins Trust Suffolk, aimed at improving the sexual health and condom access to young people living or accessing services in Suffolk. It is freely accessible to any young person aged between 13-24 years old.

There are many other forms of contraception including pills, injections, and implants, and these are prescribed by a doctor or nurse.

Condoms however, are the only type of contraception that can both prevent pregnancy and protect against most

sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

They are also readily available and can be easily used by anyone, without the help of a health worker. When used correctly every time you have sex, male condoms are 98% effective (femidoms are 95% effective).

HOW DOES IT WORK? The c-card scheme is easy to sign up to and means you can get free condoms, dams, femidoms and lube until your 25th birthday. There are loads of outlets across Suffolk including student services and many pharmacies; which are usually identified by a poster or window sticker with the c-card logo displayed. For a map of outlets visit - https://www.icash.nhs.uk/ contraception-sexual-health/c-cardscheme/c-card-suffolk You’ll be asked a few simple questions like your name and age (nothing too embarrassing!) and this will be kept completely confidential. We then make sure you have the right information about clinics, who to speak to about emergency contraception and other issues. We also make sure you have all the information you need to ensure your condom use is as effective as possible, by providing a demonstration

20 • FEBRU ARY 2018 • S T UD E N T L I FE

of how to use one (okay that bit can be a bit embarrassing, but we’ve done it so many times before it’s really no big deal!). You get given a bank card sized card and you can then use this to get your free condoms at any of our outlets across Suffolk.

Outreach workers from Terrence Higgins Trust often visit different locations around Suffolk offering dropin sessions. Ask them about the c-card scheme when you see them.

HOW CAN I STAY SAFER? Condoms should be used with waterbased lubricant as supplied on the c-card scheme, as oil-based lube can weaken them. Condoms come in a variety of types and sizes. We even have Latex free condoms for those with an allergy to latex. It’s important you find the right condom for you and any partners.

Condoms and Femidoms don’t take away all the risk however, as some STIs are passed on through skin to skin contact. So it’s recommended that you have a regular sexual health screen. iCaSH Suffolk (Integrated Contraception and Sexual Health) run a weekly walk-in clinic for people under 25, every Thursday between 3pm and 6pm from the Terrence Higgins Trust office at 3-9 Arcade Street, Ipswich IP1 1EX. For further information about this clinic, please call 0300 1233650 during office hours.

(Please note that you cannot book an appointment though Terrence Higgins Trust for this clinic, and the clinic only runs on the advertised day!).

If your condom breaks, you could take emergency contraception to reduce the risk of pregnancy. The emergency contraceptive pill is available free from GPs, sexual health clinics, or young person’s clinics. Some pharmacies will provide it free to young people under 19, and some schools may also be able to provide it via the school nurse. It is available to buy at pharmacies if you are aged 16 or older - but this can be expensive, as most charge around £26.

It is important to remember that if you need the emergency contraceptive pill it is you that has to see the doctor or pharmacist. Nobody else can get it for you. It is not something you should use in place of regular contraception because it is not as effective in preventing pregnancy, and offers no protection against STIs. So, what’s not to like? Free condoms, femidoms, dams and lube until your 25th birthday - don’t miss out, sign up today!!

Email: sexualhealthsuffolk@tht.org.uk Website: www.tht.org.uk

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WATERFRONT Churches

An Alternative

CHURCH

only use them at the weekend or in the holidays. It’s nice for them… but it doesn’t do much for the resident community. The church risks being like that. Its buildings can stand idle much of the time, taking up a lot of space, but doing very little… until Sunday rolls around.

While our worship spaces are best suited for worship and seminar purposes, we try to make our church halls available for other uses that may benefit the local community. Sometimes these are events and activities we run - most of which are open to all! Just recently we held a quiz night at Holy Trinity church hall. We also use St Luke’s hall on Cliff Lane for a Wednesday morning parent and toddler group (Grapevine), a Wednesday afternoon children’s club (Kids’ Rock) and a Thursday morning cafe (Coffee Pot).

“The church is the only society on earth that exists for the benefit of non-members” So said former Archbishop of Canterbury William Temple. It’s worth us re-reading that quote to feel its full force, especially those of us in the church, who may be prone to forgetting it. We’re here really as a channel for the good of people around us, whoever they may be. And that applies also when it comes to our buildings.

But our halls are available for local people to hire out as well. The purpose needn’t be ‘religious’ in any way. Sometimes people need a suitable venue for a birthday party or family reunion. Perhaps there’s a club or a group that needs a space to meet whether weekly, monthly or quarterly.

For example, there’s a dance group that hires the hall at St Luke’s every Monday afternoon and a toddler group has used St Helen’s hall every weekday morning for years. One of the best uses of Holy Trinity Church hall in recent times has been the Ipswich Winter Night Shelter, who provide a safe, warm place for the homeless of the town to spend the cold nights. We’re delighted when our buildings can be a benefit to everyone - especially nonmembers!

A lot of heat gets generated in areas (predominantly sea-side communities) where properties are bought as second homes by people who live elsewhere and

If you ever need to hire one of our halls, please contact office@ ipswichwaterfrontchurches.co.uk or call 07419 746281

WRITTEN BY REV. TOM ROUT

Tom Rout is vicar of the Ipswich Waterfront Churches (St Helen’s, Holy Trinity and St Luke’s) and Anglican Chaplain to the University of Suffolk and Suffolk New College. He is married to Nicola and father of 3 young children.

22 • FEBRU ARY 2018 • S T UD E N T L I FE You can always get in touch via tom@ipswichwaterfrontchurches.co.uk or t.rout@uos.ac.uk

MENTAL Health SUPPLEMENT

Mental health difficulties are like weeds in your garden.

We can spend so much time ignoring the issue that the root spreads.

Digging deeper identifies the root; removing the root, removes the problem.

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“

Editor’s

WORD

Take a look! https://www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk/ or 0808 801 0677 Best wishes.

Leanne Arnold Mental Health Co-editor

Contents...

CONTACT US 01473 35 35 12 leanne@student-life.co www.student-life.co Snapchat : studentlifesc FB : @studentlifedigital

“

Hello!

Along with Christmas and new year, I was also excited to see this supplement in print, and I can say I am super happy and proud of what we have achieved. I would be interested to hear your thoughts as readers!

Please do take time to read the Self-Care and Tips & Advice features, these are all new, interactive and they allow you as a reader to get involved. I would also like to highlight that February hosts the eating disorders awareness week. This takes place from the 26th of February until the 4th of March. This is an international week where every year BEAT focus on issues that matter to people affected by eating disorders. It is a fantastic opportunity to raise awareness and to educate those who are unsure of what this means.

SELF CARE ............................................................................................................................................. 25 SOCIAL MEDIA .......................................................................................................................... 26-27 YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED ...................................................................................28-29 AWARENESS ............................................................................................................................... 32-33 WHERE’S YOUR HEAD AT? .................................................................................................... 36 MENTAL HEALTH IN PREGNANCY ..................................................................................... 37 LGBTQ+ AND MENTAL HEALTH .................................................................................. 38-39

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STUDENT Health

SELF CARE ASMR WRITTEN BY RACHEL GILBEY ASMR stands for Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response. It describes a tingling feeling and relaxation that someone can experience when they watch or listen to a certain video.

Now before I start, here’s a disclaimer.

ASMR isn’t for everyone. You might find it weird or uncomfortable to watch or listen to, or you might find that you feel a lot more relaxed (or sleepy!) after watching.

I admit, when I was first properly introduced to ASMR by my sister, I thought the whole thing was creepy and I couldn’t sit and watch a video for longer than 30 seconds. However, after researching it a bit more and exploring various channels, I soon found a couple of YouTubers who I enjoyed watching.

ASMR videos come in a variety of formats.

Whether it’s listening to sounds or it’s role play, you’re likely to find a type of video that you prefer listening to. If you need to relax or have trouble falling asleep, then

I recommend giving it a try. The soothing sounds will help to make you feel relaxed and will shift your focus from whatever you may have been thinking or worrying about.

Most ASMR videos are softly spoken or whispered, which assists relaxation.

Some of my favourite videos involve the YouTuber conducting a doctor’s examination or different role play scenario. The idea of someone paying you one to one attention can often make you feel good about yourself.

If you’re not sure where to start, I’ve listed some of my favourite channels below.

• ASMR Darling • Gibi ASMR • asmr zeitgeist Why not let us know at Student Life why you like ASMR or send us a YouTube channel suggestion!

MENTAL Health

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A I D E IAL M

SOC

HOW SOCIAL MEDIA AFFECTS OUR MENTAL HEALTH

perfect breakfast. We might see this as the norm, but research has shown that social media can have a negative effect on our mental health. In a recent study, it was revealed that young adults who spend more than two hours on social media were twice as likely to report mental health issues. As this suggests, it’s important for us to pay close attention to our social media habits.

WRITTEN BY AYLA BLOOM

CONNECTIVITY:

Ayla is 21-years-old and is studying Screenwriting and Film Studies.

Ayla plans to become a writer. She likes poetry, cats, and drinking copious amounts of tea. Ayla decided to get involved in Student Life to inspire others and reach out to the community.

Despite its negative connotations, social media can have a positive effect on our mental health. For one, it can be a great way for communities to connect with one another. Through chatrooms, individuals can find others who share similar interests. Fan-bases and online communities are more prominent on social media now than ever before. It can make friendships happen that might not have been possible before. Just look at YouTube. Influencers have transformed the platform, building it into a community

Twitter. Facebook. Instagram. Snapchat.

For many, this has become the usual way to communicate. Every day we see photographs of models, gym selfies, or the

IF THIS ARTICLE HAS BROUGHT UP ANY EMOTIONS THAT 26 • FEBRU ARY 2018 • S T UD E N TYOU L I FE WOULD LIKE TO DISCUSS, PLEASE REFER TO OUR CONTACT LIST AT THE END OF THIS SECTION

where young people can now have their voices heard about things they care about.

This can range from fashion to politics to education.

COMPARING OURSELVES TO OTHERS: Although it’s important to get people talking, social media can also have the adverse effect on our mental health.

We’ve all been there. You see a photo of a celebrity whilst scrolling through Instagram. You wish you had thinner legs, a flatter stomach, or the perfect skin like them. However, in a study it was reported that social media can overstimulate the ‘addictive’ part of our brain. This can increase our desire for re-tweets and likes for instance. So, when we aren’t getting thousands of likes like the Instagram model, we might experience feelings of anxiety and low self-esteem.

However, steps have been taken to ensure that more ‘realistic’ images are presented. Celebrities are now using their platforms to embrace their ‘flaws’. Media personality, Stacey Solomon, recently posted an unedited photograph from a magazine shoot, exposing the effects of photoshopping. Young women are now using Instagram to photograph their acne, rather than filter it. Since research has suggested that edited images can play a role in encouraging eating disorders and body dysmorphia, highlighting flaws can make us understand that the images we see on social media are not ‘perfect’.

LIVING LIFE THROUGH A LENS: Identities on social media are constructed.

Even if we use our own pictures and information, we are living through personas. We might see snapchats of our friends at parties for instance. But if we aren’t there to experience this with them, we might experience ‘Fomo’: the feeling that we are missing out. I think it’s too easy to forget that everything on social media has been mediated in a certain way. While you might think that your friend is having the perfect life through their pictures, you tend to forget what’s going on in reality.

Social media is a double-edged sword.

It can be an extremely powerful tool for enabling people to connect and share.

However, it can also have a detrimental effect on our mental health if it is not used in proportion. In a world fueled by hashtags and likes, reality can become blurred. So, next time you’re on social media you might want to reconsider if yoursocial media habits are having a positive or negative effect on your mental health.

MENTAL Health

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Tips & Advice

YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED Got a burning question about mental health difficulties? Want non-professional, peer-to-peer advice? Look no further, this feature will appear every month and invites readers to send in questions regarding mental health for tips and advice*. My name is Leanne and I have both specialist training and personal experience in mental health and will aim to provide userfriendly, non-professional advice to anyone who asks for it!

Q.

MY PARTNER DOESN’T KNOW ABOUT MY MENTAL HEALTH PROBLEM, SHOULD I TELL THEM? A. I would always advise discussing any difficulties and worries with your partner, irrespective of whether it is regarding a mental health difficulty. I believe it is important to recognise that when we talk about our problems we can often find this therapeutic and feel reassured afterwards. It also allows us to discuss options that we can take in order to tackle the issue. It happens all too regularly that we as humans do not talk about our problems and let them build up, eventually these built up problems all spill out at once making it more difficult. By talking frequently and regularly about our issues

we exercise a cleansing of our mind and enable ourselves to keep them at a manageable level.

Q.

I’M FEELING SWAMPED UNDER WITH UNI WORK, I’M STARTING TO STRUGGLE & IT’S AFFECTING MY MOOD. WHAT DO I DO? A. Okay, firstly, breathe. It is ok. Your education is in your hands. Your health is in your hands. If you feel you need a break, or extra time, these things can usually be arranged. I would advise talking to your personal tutor about any worries you have regarding uni work and deadlines, there are options available to students. You can apply for extensions and deferrals which, in a nut shell, give you extra time

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to complete the work. This hopefully may help in reducing the pressure and stress we can all experience from deadlines and essay work! You can also utilise this time to talk to your tutor about your mood and how this is being impacted by your workload. I would also advise that if you feel your mood is becoming unmanageable you should contact a professional for advice.

Q.

I’M REALLY CONCERNED ABOUT MY FRIEND’S MENTAL HEALTH, THEY WON’T TALK TO ME! A. Depending on the severity of the mental health problem and the risks attached to this, I would consider approaching a member of staff to express your worries and concerns. It might be worth approaching this plan with your friend first, but it is important to recognise that this could potentially aggravate things and therefore sometimes it is best not to do so. You could also get advice from your mutual friends, bearing in mind not to give out information about the person concerned. Of course, if there is very high risk then it is important to talk to someone quickly in order to address the situation in a timely manner.

Q.

I’M PREGNANT AND I’M WORRIED ABOUT MY MENTAL STATE DETERIORATING. DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE? A. Likewise with mental health in general, if you feel you are unable to control your mental health problem and you feel concerned about yourself then I would always advise talking to someone about this.

That someone does not always have to be a professional, but it is advised if the severity of your problem is high. Health visitors and midwives are fantastic people to confide in, they should be able to get in touch with the correct people and offer you services appropriate for you. It may interest you

How to ask: PLEASE SEND YOUR QUESTIONS TO: LEANNE@STUDENT-LIFE.CO *Please note not all questions will be answered, and all will be posted anonymously. If you are seeking urgent or professional advice, please see our contact list at the end of this sub-section. to know that Student Life has a monthly perinatal mental health article which discusses a whole range of things that may concern mental health during pregnancy.

Q.

I’M EXPERIENCING DISCRIMINATION ABOUT MY MENTAL HEALTH DISORDER, HOW DO I MANAGE THIS? A. This is very dependant upon the level of discrimination and who it is coming from.

Not all people will feel confident to do so, but talking to the perpetrator may help.

Discussing your troubles and the reasons for their actions might settle the problem.

If this is not a suitable option you could approach the matter with your senior, this could be a lecturer, course-leader, or tutor. They should be able to sit down and discuss the situation with you. I just want to reinforce the fact that you should not be treated any differently just because you have a mental health disorder, discrimination is never acceptable. It takes courage to address situations like these and you should be proud of yourself.

MENTAL Health

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RELATIONSHIPS WRITTEN BY RACHEL GILBEY Talking about mental health with anyone can be daunting enough, but how do you approach that subject with someone you are dating or are in a relationship with?

When even is the right time to do that?

Questions I have struggled answering in the past and ones which I don’t think have a ‘one rule for all’ approach. Since struggling with Anxiety, I have been in a couple of long-term relationships where I have had good mental health and also bad mental health and my experiences have differed.

I have been in a relationship where my boyfriend ‘gets it’ and one where it’s taken a bit longer to understand the day to day. Both experiences have shaped the way I view mental health & relationships and have influenced how I approach the subject.

In my current relationship, I have had to introduce anxiety and really take care not only to understand how a relationship impacts my anxiety, but also take time to learn how my anxiety can impact the person I’m in relationship with. It’s been difficult, I can’t lie and it has tested us beyond limits, but if you are able to put in the time, it is worth it.

I used to send articles about anxiety to my boyfriend to help him understand how I can sometimes feel, as well as sending him articles to read about how he might be able to support me.

Communication is key. If you can get to a place where you can both openly talk about how you feel, then that’s a step in the right direction.

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WRITTEN BY LEANNE ARNOLD

Self Diagnosis As a professional in training, I sometimes find myself struggling with this concept.

The main reason for this is the dangers that come along with diagnosing oneself.

I do believe that self-diagnosis can be therapeutic, although only if utilised properly.

It took me 4 clicks from my desktop to a page on the internet that presented me with a ‘tool’ to diagnose my mental illness. How fantastic! That saves me the dreaded trip to the doctors, and the petrol it will cost. Although, when I see that I’ve got bipolar disorder and I need to take mood stabilisers even though I’ve formally been diagnosed with a different condition altogether, I may not feel the same way about the ‘tool’. It is common knowledge now that if we search our symptoms online, we can end up with all sorts of diseases, infections, lumps and bumps, and all the rest. This is an important reason to tread carefully when exploring your own mental health. There are many reputable charities who can provide information which is reliable and safe.

These charities can provide information via the telephone, on the internet, and some even hold drop-in days. You can find out about your local charities by asking your GP or utilising the NHS website. I would always avoid using self-diagnostic tools, there is specific training for mental

health professionals and consultants for a reason; mental health is extremely complex, and many conditions can present similarly to other conditions. I think the important message to take away from this article is to tread carefully when diagnosing yourself - ask for professional help if you feel you are unable to manage, and remember you can be aware of your mental health without having to diagnose the ‘problem’ you have.

MENTAL Health

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STUDENT Health

AWARENESS OF YOUR OWN MENTAL HEALTH WRITTEN BY EZRA HEWING, HEAD OF MENTAL HEALTH EDUCATION, SUFFOLK MIND At Suffolk Mind we believe that all of us need a better awareness of the emotional needs upon which good mental health depends.

that an important need is unmet and that we should be giving it attention. We should never ignore what nature is telling us and always seek help when distressed.

Our emotional needs include the needs to feel safe; in control of our lives; to give and receive attention; to be a part of the wider community; that we are valued and emotionally connected to others; to have privacy and time to reflect; that we are achieving things in our lives; and that our lives have meaning and purpose.

In this sense, diagnosing the cause of our distress is an important skill. However, trying to diagnose without the correct information can be unhelpful and even prevent us from getting the right help when we need it.

We also need to develop the resources which enable us to meet those needs. Our resources include the emotions which guide and shape how we see the world, rational thinking, imagination, relationship skills and an ability to step back and become aware of the bigger picture.

These resources, our emotions and our sense of awareness, form part of nature’s warning system – when we become stressed or experience distress nature is telling us

It’s natural to want an answer and a solution to feelings of emotional distress, and we might turn to using online symptoms checkers for answers. However, even if they do correctly diagnose what you are experiencing, they are unlikely to relieve the problem – you should always follow up with your GP in the first instance.

One of our resources is the ability to categorise the world around us and giving upsetting feelings a label can help us to make sense of what is going on. However, labels can be misleading and unhelpful

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Another reason to be cautious about selfdiagnosis is that if we are experiencing stress or distress, it can be easy to assume the worst. This happens when our emotions, which in part evolved to evaluate risks in the world around us, override our ability to think rationally and cause us to imagine the worst case scenario.

because they fuel assumptions.

For example, to differing degrees we all need to have some order in our lives. But that doesn’t mean that because we feel slightly irritated by untidiness, we have Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD).

Likewise, our feelings ebb and flow and all of us will have ups and downs; days when we feel satisfied with our lives and days when we feel that things could be better.

This doesn’t mean however that we have Bipolar Disorder, a condition characterised by disturbing mood swings, which can be profoundly distressing for people who suffer from it.

When this happens we default to blackand-white either-or-thinking and might assume that because one thing feels wrong that everything is bad. This kind of thinking might cause us to assume that “because I have a headache, it must be a brain tumour,” or “one of my parents had depression so I must have it too!”

So what should we do? As we said before, we should never ignore symptoms, and in all cases we should seek advice from our GP who may recommend that you contact the Suffolk Wellbeing Service, Suffolk Mind or 4YP - the Suffolk Young People’s Health Service.

For more information about mental health and wellbeing visit suffolkmind.org.uk or call 0300 111 6000.

Just like high street fashions, medical labels can be trendy and even meet needs for meaning and purpose by providing an ‘off the peg’ identity. But this can devalue the genuinely distressing experiences of people whose lives are negatively affected by conditions like depression, OCD and Bipolar Disorder.

MENTAL Health

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Quay Place brings together wellbeing and heritage by offering a range of therapies, classes and training. Quay Place is also available for room hire and wedding receptions.

February & March 2018

Regular Groups at Quay Place

Animal Capers - Free Family Fun Monday 12th Feb, 10.30am - 2.30pm. Free half-term activities for children aged 0-11yrs.

Poppy Craft.

Mondays, 10am - 12pm

Small Talk, Big Steps Thursday 15th February, 6pm - 7.30pm. Find out how you can add a little sparkle to your conversation skills.

Huddl Ups with Suffolk Mind Friday 9th March, 9.30am – 12.30pm. Learn more about addictive behaviours in your child or young person.

Sporting Memories.

Mondays, 10.30am - 12pm Colouring Group Mondays, 2pm – 4pm Craft Group Wednesdays, 1pm - 3pm

Rejuvenate at Quay Place Sunday 25th February Rejuvenate your Body and Mind, with a whole day of learning how to relax, and setting goals to improve your wellbeing. Includes an overnight stay, breakfast at the 4* Salthouse Harbour Hotel, a full-body massage, lunch and mindfulness workshop.

01473 569696 • www.quayplace.co.uk • Quay Place, Key Street, Ipswich, IP4 1BZ

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Mental health charity, Suffolk Mind, has a range of opportunities to get involved; from fundraising, becoming a friend or volunteering. Visit www.suffolkmind.org.uk Volunteering Opportunities

Get Fundraising

Volunteer Peer Mentor Based across Suffolk. An exciting, varied role which includes 1-2-1 and group support for people seeking advice.

Are you organising an event or taking part in a sponsored challenge and would like to raise money for Suffolk Mind? If so we would love to hear from you - email carole.thain@suffolkmind.org.uk or call us on 01394 330823.

Volunteer Admin Support Based in Felixstowe. You will assist the accounting department with filing invoices and provide administrative support.

Ecotherapy Allotment Volunteer Based across Suffolk. You will attend weekly sessions to organise an allotment project helping people improve their mental wellbeing.

Events Admin Assistant Based across Suffolk. You will schedule and organise all aspects of training events and fundraising. This will include computer based work.

Become a Friend of Suffolk Mind Join our free network and receive information, help and support to make your own mental health a priority, and create a life that meets your needs. For more information visit Suffolkmind.org.uk To apply for a volunteering role, or for more information, contact Corrina Hanley on 0300 111 6000 or email Corrina.hanley@suffolkmind.org.uk

MENTAL Health

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seem daunting at times, but our committee members are all lovely and are here if you would like some encouragement. If coming to a casual meet up for half an hour would seem more manageable you are also more than welcome to do so. Our members are all very friendly and understanding too!

We also host a mindfulness session every Thursday 6.00-7.00pm, however this may be subject to change (all updates and details regarding events and meet ups will be on our Facebook page). In these sessions, there will be mindful colouring, meditation, or another activity available - as well as refreshments, but you can come along if you just wish to have a quiet space to study.

CO-WRITTEN BY ASHLEIGH MORTON, REBECCA HUDSON & MADELEINE NORRIS

Where’s Your Head At? is one of a number of Societies based at the University of Suffolk. With a primary focus on mental health, the Society also focuses on general wellbeing; aiding students & staff with additional issues such as stress or even loneliness, through events and socials.

WYHA? hosts weekly meet ups which are currently held on a Wednesday 6.00-7:30pm at Cult Café. Here, students can grab a drink or a bite to eat and socialise with the other members, but you are welcome to bring along study materials too. We understand that events and meet ups can

This term we are planning an event to raise awareness for University Mental Health Day (1st March).

We encourage any suggestions for future events, or comments regarding the Society through our Facebook page. Message us if you have any thoughts and one of the committee will get back to you!

The committee members are Ashleigh Morton (President), Rebecca Hudson (Secretary) and Maddie Norris (Treasurer and Recruitment Officer). Anyone is welcome to join the Society whether you have a mental health condition or not. You can also bring a friend along if you wish.

If you would like to contact anyone on our committee for dates and times of events, or would like to contact us regarding advice about where you can go for professional help - feel free to message us on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/WYHAUOS

IF THIS ARTICLE HAS BROUGHT UP ANY EMOTIONS THAT 36 • FEBRU ARY 2018 • S T UD E N TYOU L I FE WOULD LIKE TO DISCUSS, PLEASE REFER TO OUR CONTACT LIST AT THE END OF THIS SECTION

WRITTEN BY SUZANNE BROWN

MENTAL HEALTH

in Pregnancy

SOCIAL MEDIA Suzanne is 21 years old and is studying midwifery. Suzanne decided to get involved with Student Life because she wants to raise awareness and reduce the stigma of mental health conditions during pregnancy and up to a year following birth.

or ‘I look like that after I have eaten’ are often given as compliments, but could make a woman feel like her pregnancy is not normal. Every woman’s pregnancy is different, meaning their bumps will also be different, and this does not mean that they are doing anything wrong.

I am very much aware of the role that social media plays in our day-to-day lives, and how this can positively and negatively affect a person’s mental health. For pregnant women, social media can be a platform to share their pregnancy and gain insight into areas such as feeding and different useful products. Some women will share more than others, and that is okay!

The effect of these comments could continue after birth, especially regarding weight loss or gain. By looking at the comments on some pregnant celebrity’s social media accounts, and their journey through pregnancy and beyond, the true extent of these comments has become apparent. One woman who I follow had a small bump and following the birth, her baby needed to go to special care. She was made to feel guilty by some of her followers who suggested that it was her fault as she ‘didn’t eat enough’. These comments negatively affected her mental health, which she is still trying to overcome.

The danger of social media is that pregnancy is portrayed as being a certain way, thus setting expectations that are not always realistic. Something I have noticed recently is the power of people’s words on social media for women who are pregnant.

People often comment on whether a woman’s bump is small or large which can have the potential to cause offence, even if this wasn’t the intention. Comments such as ‘wow, your bump is so small/large!’

Regardless of what is accepted as ‘normal’, every pregnancy is different, and every woman’s body grows and nurtures their baby until it is ready or necessary to be born. Let’s combat this negativity by being aware of the power of our own words and by thinking before we comment. Words can hurt too, not just sticks and stones.

MENTAL Health

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We would like to introduce our latest feature, which will be based on the LGBTQ+ community. This is a monthly feature that will focus on all aspects of identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, or questioning, as well as other ways of defining our gender/sexuality. We aim to cover a variety of topics; some relating to mental health, positive and negative experiences, the reality of today’s society in accepting the LGBTQ+ community, day-to-day life, and many more. As always, we invite anyone who has a passion for writing, or who wants their voice heard, to contact us about writing an article for Student Life. I believe it is important to talk about the things that society can sometimes find uncomfortable. Hiding away encourages this behaviour, and I personally think that we are all different and there is no right or wrong. I say: “be who you truly are, be yourself, embrace yourself, and don’t let anyone get you down” – how boring would it be if we were all the same, eh? Please see our first LGBTQ+ articles which focus on the relationship between mental health and identifying within the LGBTQ+ community. If anyone has any questions regarding this topic, please feel free to contact me at Leanne@student-life.co

+ Q T LGB LGBTQ+ AND MENTAL HEALTH WRITTEN BY LEANNE ARNOLD Unfortunately, it is apparent that mental health problems are more prevalent within the LGBTQ+ community in comparison to the wider population. It is common for people within the LGBTQ+ community to suffer from depression, anxiety, and experience suicidal thoughts and feelings.

It has been recognised that mental health problems experienced by people within the LGBTQ+ community have been linked to bullying, discrimination, and homophobia. Other things to think about are the experiences that people may have within their family settings. Some people experience rejection within their families, communities, religions, and employers. All of this can have a dramatic impact on a person’s mental health and self-esteem.

IF THIS ARTICLE HAS BROUGHT UP ANY EMOTIONS THAT 38 • FEBRU ARY 2018 • S T UD E N TYOU L I FE WOULD LIKE TO DISCUSS, PLEASE REFER TO OUR CONTACT LIST AT THE END OF THIS SECTION

Stats say that one in five lesbian, gay and bisexual students have attempted to take their own life, and more than two in five trans students have also attempted this. This could be linked to the fact that around 45% of LGBT pupils are bullied for being LGBT in Britain’s schools.

So what can we do? Talk about it, educate ourselves around it, try to be less judgemental, think before you act, and remember that what other people are doing is not always your business. I believe that if people were more accepting and less judgemental, bullying would decrease; the acceptance would rise, therefore lessening the impact it can have upon a person’s mental health.

As always; you are here for yourself and you are here as yourself, therefore be yourself!

FEELING SELFCONSCIOUS WRITTEN ANONYMOUSLY For many people, discovering that they are gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender or queer+ can negatively impact their mental health, especially with how they view themselves. It can make someone feel very self-conscious – I know I did for a while. It was the reason behind me feeling down and blue for some months. However, fortunately, it is much more accepted now, if you are a member of the LGBTQ+ community; which can reassure people when they start to come out to family and friends. I started to realise I was bisexual around 13, which seems like

such a long time ago now! At first, I felt very anxious about it and I became quite down, mainly because I was so worried about my friends and family’s reactions when I would eventually tell them. Being 13, I was in year 9 at the time, which can be quite an immature year for dealing with things like this. But, when I slowly started to tell my friends, they reacted in the best way possible and I feel very lucky for that. They were so supportive of me!! I have also seen the same from second hand experience.

But prior to this, I did get quite upset a lot, I think it was because I wanted to be ‘normal’, but ‘normal’, of course, doesn’t exist! I could slowly feel myself losing confidence in myself. But 5 years on, I have learnt to embrace myself and express who I am the way I want to. When it eventually came to telling my parents, they were also very supportive and I would reassure that if you are worried about telling your parents, that you do try because when I did a massive weight was taken off my shoulders, although it is a hard thing to do.

But, if you believe you would come to any harm by doing so, protecting yourself is number one priority.

MENTAL Health

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CONTACTS IN CASE OF EMERGENCY CONTACT NHS OUT OF HOURS SERVICE: 111 OR CALL FOR AN EMERGENCY AMBULANCE: 999

Otherwise you can contact other services such as: SUFFOLK MIND: 0300 111 6000

or Your Local GP: www.nhs.uk/service-search/GP/LocationSearch/4 4YP – 01473 252607 or www.4yp.org.uk Childline: 0800 1111 Inside out Community: www.insideoutcommunity.com Lighthouse: 01473 228270 or www.lighthousewa.org.uk Papyrus Hope Trust: 0800 068 4141 or www.papyrus-uk.org Samaritans: 116 123 or www.samaritans.org Stem4: www.stem4.org.uk Students against depression: www.studentsagainstdepression.org Suffolk Wellbeing: 0300 123 1503 Turning Point: www.turning-point.co.uk 4 0 • FEBRUARY 2018 • S T UD E N T L I FE

WRITTEN BY SIAN ROBERTSON

Student Life is delighted to have joined forces with Career Ready UK. The organisation helps raise young people’s aspirations and bridge the gap between education and work, by providing access to real experience of the world of work. Here Career Ready’s Regional Manager for Cambridge and Ipswich, Sian Robertson, introduces the charity to readers.

If you are looking to start work straight after sixth form or college, begin an apprenticeship with an employer, or apply for a university place, it is never too early to start making a good impression.

Researching organisations to find favoured employers or education providers is something that you can start early on. It is always useful to plan ahead and consider your career path from as early as year 8.

Many jobs, apprenticeships and university courses require certain qualifications and what you decide to study in high school, sixth form, college and beyond can have an effect on your future choices.

Understanding what is required from you with regard to formal qualifications, experience and soft skills, is very important if you wish to succeed in securing the pathway you want. Most employers and course providers list what they are looking for in employees/students on their website, however many are very happy to have

conversations with you in person as soon as you express an interest in knowing more about them. If you get in touch to learn more about an organisation, then you are already demonstrating several key skills that are well sought after by all employers; initiative, confidence and the ability to manage yourself and your career. Having such initiative will help you to stand out early on.

If you aren’t already on LinkedIn then I would suggest you set up an account, as this can be a great way to discover employers, learn more about them and start up initial conversations.

If you are keen to go straight out to work, or begin an apprenticeship with an employer after sixth form/college, then a great way to introduce yourself - following some initial research - is by offering yourself up to an organisation for voluntary work, or to ask if they have any internship places available.

Experience of working within a company before you leave sixth form or college will not only help you to decide if you like a role, but if you do well, it will demonstrate to an employer that you have the ability to succeed within their company. In addition, you will develop your skill set further, making you even more employable. Many employers that we work with offer students a job or an apprenticeship following a successful internship, or work experience placement.

YOU CAN CONTACT US AS FOLLOWS:

Career Ready UK National Office 25 Canada Square Canary Wharf London E14 5LB Tel: 020 7986 5494 www.careerready.org.uk https://twitter.com/CareerReadyUK https://www.facebook.com/CareerReadyUK https://www.linkedin.com/school/954160/

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Introducing...

CORE COACHING CO. MY BACKGROUND My name’s Ben and I’m the founder WRITTEN BY BEN STEWART of Core Coaching Co. I’ve been passionate about healthy living and by someone. I tried out most things an active lifestyle for around 18 years but kept changing my focus every time now. As a kid and through my teenage something new came along, which years I was an overweight, unhealthy meant getting nowhere fast. and unhappy person who didn’t know how to take care of himself properly.

WHY I SET UP THE BUSINESS I was obsessed over the wrong goals It got to the point where I was fed and never focused on my health as up of constantly reading conflicting a priority. It wasn’t until I got a bit information online and hearing older and started to educate myself on different opinions from people that I how to live a healthier life that I came decided to study different areas of the to realise how much information is industry such as nutrition, personal out there and how confusing it can training, NLP and more so I could be to try and find the best thing for teach myself the right things. The you. Add to this the huge amount biggest issue I have found is that of marketing throwing all the wrong people tend to focus on the wrong things in your face every day and it’s goals for themselves - weight loss, no wonder people don’t get the results toning up, building muscle, getting they want. I was getting frustrated on that ‘beach body’ in six weeks, getting a daily basis because everywhere you ripped abs, and more. While all of turned for guidance you were given these goals sound fantastic, they don’t something new and fantastic to do actually amount to much other than which a week later would beFEBRU criticised 42 • ARY 2018 • S T UD E N T L I FE

loving your own reflection. But what about the really important stuff like mental health, a healthy body, less stress and anxiety, less worry, less visits to the Doctor, less money spent on expensive supplements, and so on? I didn’t want to keep hearing the same stories of people who wanted to feel good about themselves but kept failing because of bad diets, fads, advice and more. So I decided to use my knowledge and experience to help people focus on the basic principles of living a healthy life and how to do it properly rather than “lose 10 stone in just 10 days” or whatever companies promise.

This would allow them to focus on what’s important while still achieving those ‘perfect bodies’ as a result of their hard work. This is where my business was born.

SERVICES OFFERED Having previously worked as a Personal Trainer in a local gym, I now put my focus in to online coaching. I work with clients worldwide to teach them what they can do in their daily lives to improve their health and feel good about themselves just by making simple changes to their normal habits, and

not feeling like they have to go to the gym 70 times a week and eat kale all day, every day. I offer both one-to-one coaching and self service coaching programmes where you can take yourself through your very own course and learn ways to take better care of yourself.

WHAT I HOPE TO ACHIEVE My ultimate goal is to reach out to people who have previously never focused on anything health-related for themselves, or have tried diets and fads in the past but not achieved the results they wanted. I want to show you that it is possible to achieve your goals simply by applying some basic and achievable changes to your daily habits so you can feel like the best version of yourself. My company motto, “Change your life from the inside, out” means exactly that - focus on the inside, and the outside will follow.(in

GET IN TOUCH E: ben@corecoachingco.com W. www.corecoachingco.com 4 3 • FEBRU ARY 2018 • S T UD E N T L I FE

Our Strategic

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