You’re not alone!
Much like other mental health issues, anxiety can be incredibly isolating but you are not alone. Did you know that 87% of students have struggled with feelings of anxiety? It can take a lot of bravery, but opening up to friends and family around you can often help to make you realise that you’re not alone.
Speak to people about how you’re feeling and let them know how they might be able to help in the future.
Look after your physical health!
University can be a time of great freedom and while that’s an amazing opportunity, it can sometimes lead to a lack of routine which can contribute to hectic sleeping patterns and a lack of physical activity.
Increasing physical activity can be a great way of helping to build a routine and reduce anxiety and stress levels.
Did you know that people who exercise every day reduce their risk of anxiety and stress levels by more than 40%? – NHS
Did you know that people who exercise every day reduce their risk of anxiety and stress levels by more than 40%? Why not take a look at some sports societies happening on your campus? It can be a great way to meet new friends while also reducing the risk of experiencing further levels of anxiety and stress.
No time for a society? Try to take some easy, manageable steps towards building physical activity into your daily routine. If you’ve recently moved to a new town or city for university, take some time to explore! Strap your trainers on and go for a walk. Small things like getting off the bus one stop sooner can help to clear your head and get your steps up.
Don’t be afraid to seek help.
Seeking help for any mental health issue can be incredibly daunting but if your anxiety is affecting you in your daily life, it might be worth considering booking an appointment with a professional.
Here’s a few places you can find help at university:
- Your GP
Have you registered with your local GP yet? A good first step to seeking help for your anxiety can be visiting your GP. It can help to write down what you’ve been going through before your visit. - University counselling
Most universities have counselling services on campus, which will give you the chance to talk through your experiences in a non-judgemental space. Information about university counselling services can usually be found on your uni’s website but if you’re still struggling to find it- contact your student union and they should be able to direct you to the right place! - Tutors and student welfare officers
There may be a tutor assigned to give you pastoral support, or a student welfare officer you can talk to. - Student minds
Student Minds run support groups, especially focusing on depression and eating disorders, which are led by other students. Find out if they have groups at your university: www.studentminds.org.uk - Find your local Mind branch
There are local branches of Mind throughout the UK and they each have a range of services that might be able to help you. Find your local branch of Mind and ask what services they might have on offer that could help you. - In an emergency
If you’re about to harm yourself or have already done so, phone 999 or go to A&E and explain that you’re at risk.
