Support available at university or college
Depending on your university, this may have a different name – it’s a good idea to find out what services they offer and how to get in touch with them before you arrive.
This would usually be your first place to get information about what's available at your university – from general wellbeing support to help with a specific mental health condition or difficulty.
Check your university website for their wellbeing pages.
Student support teams often include specialist advisers dedicated to helping students with mental health difficulties. This help is not limited to people with diagnosed conditions – it’s available to all students who'd like support to cope with any aspect of life. You don’t have to wait until you arrive at university or college to contact the mental health adviser. In fact, it’s a good idea to contact them when you've been offered a place on the course, so they can ensure you’re fully supported and feel confident when you arrive.
Counselling services
Most universities and colleges provide counselling for students who need emotional support. Student services or the students’ union (or other student body) can give you information about what’s available – make sure you check the university or college website too.
Medical support
Most campuses have an on-site medical centre, so if you require ongoing medical care, you can arrange this in advance. Alternatively, there will be GP services in your area – speak to the wellbeing team or student support services will be able to give more details.
Tools and resources
Some universities offer wellbeing apps, tools and other services (e.g. Nightline) specifically for their students – the details will be available from the wellbeing team or student support services, and check the website.
Online support from Student Space
Student Space is a new online hub from Student Minds to support students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Here you can find resources such as:
- expert advice and information about looking after your mental health and wellbeing
- one-to-one support services via phone, webchat, or text or email
- tailored support for specific groups of students
- details of the support available at your university
- students’ own stories of responding to the challenges of the pandemic.
Sharing a mental health condition on your uni application
Read our advice on how to confidentally share personal information with your university, and what will be done with your information.Disabled Students' Allowances (DSAs)
Students who incur extra study-related costs as a result of a physical or mental health condition or learning difference can apply for DSAs. You apply for DSAs alongside student finance, and they enable you to get the support you need at university or college – the amount you receive depends on your individual needs following a needs assessment.
If you are not sure you are eligible, it’s worth applying. Even if you don’t get a DSA, you can still get help from your university or college – remember to share an impairment or condition in the UCAS application so they can arrange support for you.
Read more about DSAs
International students
If you are applying to university as an international student, you can access support for your mental health and wellbeing from the university or college – and share a condition using the UCAS application.
Mental health support as an international student from UKCISA
Get the right support for your individual circumstances
By making sure you have the right support for your personal circumstances, you'll be looking after your mental health and wellbeing too.
Where to get more support and information
Student Minds
The student mental health charity offering information and resources for all aspects of student life
Student Space
A hub of resources from Student Space, offering information, advice, and free mental health services to help students through the COVID-19 pandemic.
Mind
The student mental health hub from Mind can help you settle in and adjust to your new life at university.
Kooth
Find out what student mental wellbeing support is available for you. 1.8 million students can now access free, safe, and anonymous mental health support online (providing NHS services).
Charlie Waller's Trust
Their starting university guide to coping with the social aspects of student life, from living with new people to joining clubs and societies.