Get involved with University Mental Health Day
No student should ever feel alone with their mental health.
That’s why on Thursday 9 March, we’re joining forces with the University community across the UK to celebrate University Mental Health Day, a campaign designed to normalise the conversations around mental health, so we can create a space where students feel more supported to speak openly and honestly.
Taking care of your mental health of your mental health and wellbeing is important, and whenever you need us, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
To mark the day, check out what events and activities are taking place, as well as a range of resources that you can access, when you need them. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help. We’re #HereForYou
What’s on
Take some steps to improve your mental health with the following sessions taking place across the University:
- BlackChat - Week 4: Drop-in to the BlackChat talking group in the Beale Room (opposite Aston Webb Student Hubb) at 2-3:30PM on Tuesday 7 March to engage with each other in a safe space for Black (African, Caribbean, Mixed with Black heritage) students to connect, share, and together find helpful ways to manage mental health and wellbeing whilst at university through group discussions.
- Guild Advice (University Mental Health Day): Come along to the Mermaid Bar from 12-2PM on Wednesday 8 March for tea, cakes, and mindfulness colouring to celebrate University Mental Health Day. While you’re there, you can speak to one of our friendly team members from the Guild Advice service to talk about anything that may be worrying you, from academic, finance, housing, and wellbeing. No need to book, just turn up!
- PG Chat for University Mental Health Day: Although postgraduate study can be deeply rewarding, it is not without its challenges. But you are not alone! We’re running a special edition PG Chat to mark #UniMentalHealthDay 2023. Hosted by both PGR and PGT Scholars, this informal peer-to-peer session will provide you with a safe space for a friendly, supportive chat about the challenges of PG study and top tips to support your mental health – with a hot drink on us too! Meet us downstairs at Costa in the University Centre from 3:45PM on Thursday 9 March to collect your voucher and order your drink.
- Student Mentors: Dog Café: Looking for a way to relax on a Thursday afternoon? What better way than coming to Duck & Scholar between 3-5PM on Thursday 9 March to cuddle some therapy dogs, do some arts and crafts, grab a hot drink, and letting yourself fully unwind with the support of your Student Mentors.
There’ll also be plenty of other activities and events held throughout the year to improve your mental health by the Wellbeing Team and the Guild of Students.
- SMART Recovery Group: Struggling with addiction? To alcohol, drugs, phones, social media, porn, shopping, or anything that feels like it’s getting in the way of your life. We’re here for you. Come to the Beale Room (Aston Webb) from 1:30-3PM every Wednesday for support and advice from our core team of trained facilitators. You don’t need to book, just turn up.
- Pause@UoB: Drop-ins: Feeling overwhelmed? Pause@UoB is a drop-in service for students up to the age of 25. You can drop-in anytime between 11am and 5pm every Wednesday and Thursday to talk to one of our friendly team about anything that may be worrying you. There’ll also be lots of free activities, including arts and crafts projects, social clubs, and guided walks to Winterbourne.
Support services
We all need support sometimes. Whether you’re struggling with your studies or feeling lonely while at Uni, talking about how you’re feeling can really help. We want to take this opportunity to remind you of the range of free and confidential services available for all students at UoB.
- UBHeard: Need to speak to someone? Our confidential listening and support services for all registered students (Undergraduate and Postgraduate) gives you immediate emotional and mental health support, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
- Pause@UoB: Take some time out with Pause@UoB with free activities, including arts and crafts projects, social clubs, and more. We’re open every Wednesday and Thursday between 11AM – 5PM at The Lodge, North Gate.
- Student Disability Service: If you’ve received a formal diagnosis of a disability or mental health condition, then reach out to the Student Disability Service for further support throughout your time at University.
- Wellbeing Officer(s): Each School has their own Wellbeing Officer(s) who can provide you with practical and emotional support if you’re experiencing personal problems while at University. Find out more on the Wellbeing Officers page on the Student Intranet.
You don’t have to struggle on your own. Head on over to our Time to Talk? page on the Student Intranet to find out more about our services.
Hear from our students
"University can be an overwhelming experience for so many different reasons, but you don’t need to struggle alone."
“Although we all have different addictions, I don’t feel alone and know there are friends available on campus to help me if I need it.”
- Student “Bea” shares their personal experience of using Better Than Well, UoB’s free student-led addiction recovery programme. Read Bea’s story.
Join the conversation! Use the hashtag #UniMentalHealthDay on socials and tag us @UniBirmingham.