Fancy a brew? Let’s talk it through!
The 6th of February marks the ‘Time to Talk’ day raising awareness of mental health problems and encouraging people to talk about mental health.
When you are asked how you are doing, you may sometimes respond with ‘It’s allll good!’ by which you might mean that you are stressed and burned out. Or, you may respond with ‘Yeah, getting by..’ by which you may sometimes mean that you are worried about paying your bills and buying food.
Making time to talk about how you are and checking in with your friends, peers and family it’s an important start to the conversation. Although you might not always feel comfortable opening up about your feelings and talking about how things really are to friends and family, it’s important to reach out for help.
Reach out for help
If you notice any unusual changes in your behaviour, reaching out for help is the first step towards improving your wellbeing. Speak with a friend, family member, or someone in your College such as your Tutor, the College Nurse or the Wellbeing Team. In the University, you can access support from the Postgraduate Wellbeing Service and the University Counselling Service (UCS). The UCS offers one-at-a-time counselling, groups and workshops. Further information about wellbeing and mental health support from the University, College and external can be accessed on the Student Support pages here.
Here are a few conversation starters to inspire you to talk about mental health
- Tell someone you appreciate what they have done for you
- Talk about how money worries can impact mental health
- Share something about #TimetoTalkDay on social media
- Sometimes writing is easier - check in with a friend over text
- Talking side-by-side can be easier - try talking while walking or cooking
- Listening is just as important as talking - ask someone how they are feeling
- Have a chat over lunch with a friend
Source: https://timetotalkday.co.uk/download-a-pack/#74-58-activities
Access confidential and independent support
If you wish to speak with someone or are unsure where to turn to, reach out to the Student Advice Service and an Advisor would be happy to help. They can provide a listening ear, help you explore your options (such as taking time off your studies/intermission) and signpost you to specialist sources of support. Please follow this link to make an appointment with an Advisor or to contact the Service by email.