You make a cup of tea for your housemate, chatting about plans
for the weekend.

It doesn’t sound like much. But this time last month he wouldn’t come out of his room.

He’d stopped going out and didn’t want to chat. You wanted to help but didn’t know what to do.

A few weeks ago, the SU team gave you a leaflet about mental health issues on your way to lectures. You met with staff, who helped come up with a plan. Later, together, you talked. You and your friend were offered help. Practical help.

A month later, you and your friend are still enjoying cups of tea. You’re still discussing plans for the weekend. But you’re discussing much more too.

Help us do more to help students in trouble

Mental health issues are on the rise. At least one in four students experience mental health issues during their time at university, and it’s on the rise. We’ve seen increased demand from our Student Support, Wellbeing and Counselling services, and we’ve worked to tackle the issues and signpost more support.

Our new SU scheme is partly funded by unrestricted donations. It’s called ‘Are You OK?’, and it’s all about being more open about mental health and wellbeing, promoting dialogue between friends and acknowledging when things are tough so that we can put them right.

Every month we encourage students to spread the message and ask their friends how they’re doing, and we’ll dedicate time to raising more awareness. We’re offering a whole programme of events, covering Housing, Stress and Time Management, Drugs, Alcohol, Exam Stress, and more. This is especially helpful for students coming from backgrounds or cultures which stigmatise mental health.

By debunking myths and educating students on spotting and supporting mental illnesses, we hope to keep people healthier and happier throughout their studies and beyond. Thank you for your support!

Chloe Wynne, Welfare and Campaigns Officer