Starting university can always prove challenging - whether you’re full of confidence or nervous about change. But you should always take comfort in the fact that there is support out there, whether it’s in the form of a friendly word of advice or more structured, tailored therapy programmes. No one knows that better than Rob Manners, a former student counsellor at the University of Nottingham who now works as a psychotherapist in the city - so we thought we’d use his expertise to uncover the best advice and guidance on how to look after your mental health over the next few years…
The transition from school life to university life is huge, and with that comes some sizable changes that might affect your mental health - being able to understand this and know that it’s okay not to always feel okay is something that every student should know, according to Rob Manners, a UKCP-registered psychotherapist working in Nottingham. “Pay attention to yourself - if you’re struggling then it may seem trivial, but it may come down to you just having some validation,” Rob explains, aiming to eradicate the stigma that’s often attached to mental health issues. “There are so many different sections of society that have a different relationship to being able to access support services - but everyone should know there are places to reach out to.”
These support networks are constantly expanding at both universities: UoN has its own confidential, bespoke counselling service available to all students and staff, as well as a mental health advisory service which is referral only; Nottingham Trent University provides well-being services that range from specialised help in mental health to more general study support. Whatever you may be struggling with, there will always be someone to help.
“The spectrum of mental health is so broad and so varied. Your year group can have a big influence on what issues you may need help dealing with,” Rob says. “There are relationship issues, people worried about not being good enough or struggling with the ongoing workload.”
One of the worst things people can do is increasingly isolate themselves - if you feel completely out of the loop, always feel free to access the mental health services on campus
All of these can throw up their own challenges. An intense studying process and a drive to succeed may cause anxiety or low self-esteem, and while university is a great time to make new, amazing friends, there is often a pressure to socialise whenever the opportunity comes up. If these issues start to affect you, Rob believes the best thing to do is reach out as soon as possible.
“One of the worst things people can do is increasingly isolate themselves and feel as if everyone else is creating friendships as they get left behind,” Rob believes. “You may become more self-critical and things begin to appear worse than they are. If it gets past a certain point and you do feel completely out of the loop, always feel free to access the mental health services on campus.”
When it comes to tackling these challenges, calendar apps can be your best friend. Keeping on track of your work schedule, social life and home life is key for preventing burn-out at university. Try to find a balance between studying and socialising, but don’t feel like you have to go out every weekend or to every social - because it can all start to feel very overwhelming. Do what’s best for you - and avoid feeling pressured into doing anything you don’t want to.
For first years, going out drinking and having a good time is great, but be mindful of what you’re doing - there are sober events and other opportunities to meet and socialise
“For first years, going out drinking and having a good time is great, but be mindful of what you’re doing,” Rob warns. “It can be part of the university culture and people may feel pulled into things, but be aware that there are sober events and other opportunities to meet and socialise that don’t have to involve these things.” The best way to find a close-knit and trustworthy network of friends is by joining societies and turning up to lectures, he adds, as these are often full of like-minded people who share your interests and your way of thinking.
So, while university comes with some huge hardships and challenges, it can also be some of the best years of your life - helping you to become a more independent, confident person who can thrive in your studies without sacrificing your social life. Yet if not every day feels exciting and inspirational, that’s understandable too - it’s okay not to be okay, and there will always be somewhere to go for help. Take care of yourself, and remember support is available for everyone.
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