University Mental Health Day 2024

Now, it’s more important than ever to start talking about your mental health.

This year, we’re keeping the momentum going by celebrating University Mental Health Day 2024. It’s a yearly event all about breaking mental health stigma and making lasting changes for students’ wellbeing across the UK.

Most importantly, we’re making sure that no student should ever feel alone with their mental health here at UoB. We understand the pressures and challenges that come with being a student, and how overwhelming it can be. From academic pressure, and money worries to loneliness, it’s easy to feel alone.

While there’s support at the University available anytime you need it, you can also come along to one of our free events and activities this week and throughout March to normalise talking about mental health and seeking help.

Visit the Samaritans Roadshow

On Thursday 14 March, Samaritans, the UK charity that offers around-the-clock listening and support to people and communities in times of need, are running a roadshow event on the Green Heart from 11am until 4pm.

You’re welcome to come along to learn more about the services available and how to access them. Volunteers will also be offering a safe space for students to talk. Whatever you’re going through, they’re here for you.

Remember, you can contact Samaritans, free, 24/7, 365 days a year, on 116 123, or visit www.samaritans.org.

What’s on

Pause@UoB: You can drop in to Pause@UoB, a dedicated space for students up to the age of 25, to talk about anything that may be worrying you or to seek support and advice. They're open every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 11am until 5pm at The Lodge, located by the North Gate.

Community Breakfast: Kick off your Wednesday on a positive note by joining us for the Guild's free Community Breakfast at the Mermaid Bar, in the Guild, from 8am until 10am on Wednesday 13 March. Plus, Pause@UoB will be there too with some relaxing craft activities!

BRIT Challenge: Take a break and unwind with the 2024 BRIT Challenge with UoB's Sports and Fitness. BRIT (British Inspiration Trust), a charity committed to improving mental health, fitness, and overall well-being, is offering a variety of themed challenges and activities for you to engage in. Whether you're interested in the 240-Hour Fitness Challenge or trying out Social Sport tasters, there's something to suit everyone.

Study Well-Fayres: Looking to switch things up, try something new, or get a few study tips before the Easter break? Look no further than our Study Well-Fayre on Tuesday 19 March! It's your chance to relax and unwind with a variety of fun activities, from trying your hand at crochet to chilling out with some furry friends from Pets as Therapy and more.

Postgrads, get involved with your University Graduate School

PGT Winterbourne Walk for University Mental Health Day: Postgraduate taught students, relax and unwind with the University Graduate School's small-group social in tranquil gardens on campus, taking place on Thursday 14 March, from 2 until 3.30pm, at Winterbourne House and Gardens. You can also join us the day after for a chance to take a break from work with coffee and cakes at the PGT Keep Calm and Eat Cake event, on Friday 15 March at 4pm, in Muirhead Tower (Room 109).

For PGRs, you can join a Lunch Club Campus Special for University Mental Health Day. Get away from your desk with lunch on us on Thursday 14 March, 12 until 1pm in the Arts Building PGR First Floor Common Room. The following week we also have a PGR Dog Therapy afternoon on Thursday 21 March 2 until 4pm, at Westmere House & Garden.

If you're a postgraduate, you can also access specific wellbeing support. From expert workshops led by Bloomwise online and in-person throughout the year to PGR weekly online coaching led by The PhD Life Coach, you can also join our UGS Scholars at their regular, friendly socials to bring the Postgraduate community together.

Support at UoB

If you’re struggling with your mental health, you don’t have to face it alone. We’ve got plenty of support put in place if you need it, from our trained and friendly Wellbeing Officers in every College, to our 24/7 support line UBHeard.

Hearing from other students who understand what you're going through can be comforting, especially when you hear from those who have faced similar experiences. That’s why our Student Content Shapers—Gracie, Sharon, and Alex—have bravely shared their own mental health journeys from their time at University.

Gracie reassures you that it's okay not to feel okay, especially if you're dealing with loneliness and mental health challenges. She shares her own experiences in seeking support during her time as a student here at UoB. Read her blog.
Sharon, a Master's student from Ghana, bravely shares her mental health journey, challenging cultural stigmas around opening up, and seeking support from the services at UoB. Take a read.
Men's mental health is just as important. Alex shares why it's important to speak up, and offers some practical tips on the different ways you can take care of your mental health at UoB. Read his blog.

Remember, you don’t have to face it alone. Whatever your needs, you can visit our Time to Talk? intranet page for a full list of support services. If it’s time to talk, we’re here to listen.