UNIVERSITY Mental Health Day is today – and it’s a joint campaign by UK student mental health charities Student Minds and The University Mental Health Advisers Network (UMHAN) to make mental health a university-wide priority.
‘Take A Breath’ – a song to put a smile on students’ faces for this year’s University Mental Health Day, created and filmed by performing arts students at the University of Sunderland.
WITH a rise in the number of people being diagnosed with mental illnesses, it is more important than ever that university students are offered support to get through difficult times, especially amid the enforced isolation of coronavirus.
A spokesperson at Student Minds told us: “We understand that we can’t be together physically this year, but this won’t stop us coming together to create change virtually. Now, more than ever, it’s important to get the nation talking about student mental health.”
The charity is running a service called Student Space, to give students 24/7 access to support and wellbeing tips.
“Student Space is here to support you through coronavirus,” said the spokesperson. “However you’re feeling, help and guidance is available. Explore direct support via text and phone, resources, tools and a university search function to help with the challenges of student life.”
UMHAN is a UK charity which provides resources for students who are struggling with mental health.
Manager Sam Gamblin said: “This year, UMHAN members are using the theme of ‘Together’ to be able to think about support from online peer support groups, allow us to reflect on working collaboratively, the power of community groups and the many different services available to support students.
“UMHAN will be sharing resources about online support groups accessible to all, as well as promoting the great work done by our members.”
The Wellbeing team at the University of Sunderland is also promoting the theme of ‘Together’ today.
Team member Ashley Cave said: “It’s the idea that we are all going through these experiences together and share our struggles. We can look for the silver lining in each day, of little things that might give us the boost we need to keep going.
“A few of us in the Wellbeing team got together to highlight our ‘silver lining’ in a video to be shared on University social media.
“We have access to a fantastic resource available to all students called ‘Togetherall.’ Students can sign up for free and speak to other students about how they are feeling, an in anonymous forum.
“This is a moderated forum, so it’s a safe space to talk to others, access help and feel supported. We felt it was important to have something students could access 24/7, so they don’t feel as isolated or alone.”
Performing arts students at the University of Sunderland have already got involved with University Mental Health Day by writing a song to show their peers that they are not alone. You can watch the video here.
Get involved with University Mental Health Day yourself, by using #UniMentalHealthDay on social media.
If you’re struggling with your mental health, please use these resources and talk to someone about it: