Dealing with Mental Health Difficulties

Dealing with Mental Health Difficulties

Moving to a new country, studying in a different language and making new friends is a very exciting experience, but it can also be scary and daunting. In fact, one out of every three students in British universities will experience mental health issues at some point during their studies.

Starting a new university, school or college is a big turning point and all students may feel overwhelmed at some point. It’s important to remember that you’re not alone and that there is nothing shameful about what you may be feeling.

Some students describe feeling distressed, lonely or isolated. International students can have many additional concerns, including:

• Difficulties understanding and expressing themselves in English
• Stressed about their financial situation
• Not understanding cultural references
• Anxious about achieving certain grades
• Worrying about proving themselves academically and professionally to their parents

Most institutions have a dedicated student welfare or wellbeing department. Usually, you will be able to enrol in some type of counselling or talking service. If this is not offered, the department will be able to direct you to another relevant services. If you are struggling to find your student welfare office, ask your tutor or international office.

All these offices will speak to you in confidence, meaning your parents or friends won’t find out. This is especially useful to know if you come from a culture where mental health difficulties are not recognised or considered shameful.

In the UK, counselling services always have extremely strict confidentiality policies, entailing that no-one will know if you have attended the service (including your friends or family) unless you agree to share any information about you. Your GP won’t even know unless you give the counsellor permission to share this information. Thus, you don’t have to worry about others finding out.

If you’d rather talk to someone outside of your university, school or college environment there are many organisations available to help. Here are some resources:

• Samaritans: Available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, to talk about anything that is upsetting you. You can call 116 123 for free, email jo@samaritans.org or visit your local Samaritans branch.
• Student Space: Access free support by calling 0808 189 5260, texting the word STUDENT to 85258, emailing students@themix.org.uk, or using their webchat.
• Nightline: Many universities offer a night-time support service called Nightline. Ways to get in touch vary between universities but it is generally a webchat service. As Nightline volunteers are students, they might be more likely to understand how you’re feeling or offer university-specific advice.
• Papyrus HOPELINEUK: if you’re under 35 and struggling with suicidal feelings or concerned about a young person who might be struggling call Papyrus HOPELINEUK on 0800 068 4141. It’s open 365 days a year from 9am–midnight. You can also email pat@papyrus-uk.org or text 07860 039 967.
• Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM): You can call CALM on 0800 58 58 58 (5pm –midnight every day) or you can chat using the CALM webchat service.
• Student Minds runs peer support programmes so that students experiencing mental health difficulties can access a supportive environment.

All the above services are confidential and free.

Additionally, you can go see your GP. If you find it difficult to express yourself in English, remember that you have a legal right to request an interpreter for your appointments. These interpreters are bound by confidentiality and are not allowed to tell anyone about what was said in the appointment.

However, if you or a friend are in an acute mental health emergency and think there is a need for immediate, professional help contact 111 or 999, or go to A&E.