You're not alone.
Talking about mental health isn’t easy, but it can help change lives.
Through our Time to Talk? campaign, we're aiming to normalise talking about the issues and pressures faced by students, as well as sharing our support services.
From asking for help to ways you can look after your wellbeing, below are a collection of blogs written by students. If you would like to share your story or have an idea for a blog topic, email studentcommunications@contacts.bham.ac.uk
Getting support
- Gracie explains that it's okay not to feel okay, especially if you're dealing with loneliness and mental health challenges. She shares how she sought support whilst at University. Read Gracie's blog.
- Sharon, a Master's student from Ghana, opens up about her mental health journey and reaching out for help from the support services at UoB. Read about Sharon's journey.
- Men's mental health is just as important. Student Content Shaper Alex shares why it's important to speak up, and the different ways you can take care of your mental health at UoB. Read Alex's blog.
- It's okay to ask for help if you need it. Student Content Shaper Caitlin shares her experience and where you can find support for your mental health at university. Read Caitlin's blog.
- If you're dealing with addiction at university, UoB's addiction recovery service Better Than Well can support you. Student "John" shares their experience of managing addiction recovery with Better Than Well. Read their blog.
Adjusting to uni life
- Struggling with change? Student Lorna tells us about her experience with adjusting to life at University, and how she refuses to be defined by her depression. Read Lorna's story.
- Starting postgraduate research can be a daunting prospect, but if you’re feeling nervous, know that there’s lots of support available to you. Current PhD student Katrina shares the reality of being a postgraduate researcher. Read Katrina's blog.
- University life not what you expected? Holly, a third-year student, reflects on her first year and how seeking support transformed her experience at UoB. Read about Holly's experience.
- Your first semester at university is exciting, but know that it's also normal to feel homesick and nervous about settling in. Student Content Shaper Ellen reflects on her first semester at UoB, sharing the lessons she learnt. Read Ellen's blog.
- Feeling a bit homesick? It's a common feeling for many students. Follow some of these tips from international student Fathima on how to deal with your homesickness so you can enjoy your university experience. Read Fathima's tips.
- Lots of students feel nervous about making the transition from undergraduate to postgraduate study. Recent graduate Yael shares how she settled into postgrad life. Read Yael's blog.
Looking after yourself
- Never underestimate the power of getting outside for some fresh air. Student Content Shaper Alice shares her top 5 tips on how to connect with nature. Read Alice's blog.
- Feeling low or a lack of enthusiasm during the winter months is quite common, and it can impact your mental health. Student Content Shaper Ellen shares her tips on looking after your wellbeing in winter. Read Ellen's blog.
- Being a student is an exciting time but a busy calendar of social events and studying can take its toll. Student Content Shaper May shares the five habits that have helped her stay on top of her mental and physical health. Read May's blog.
- Need some self-care tips? Student Content Shaper Lucy shares her routine for maintaining a positive mindset after a long day at Uni. Read Lucy's blog.
Making friends
- Making friends at university isn't always simple. If you haven't clicked with anyone right away, know that this is normal. Student Content Shaper Alice shares how it took time to find her people. Read Alice's blog.
- It can also be tough to know where to start with making new friends, especially if clubbing and nights out aren't for you. Student Content Shaper Hanna shares her advice. Read Hanna's blog.