A list of mental health resources at the University of Manchester

In honour of World Mental Health Day

2 years ago

University can be a challenging place to navigate. Whether we realise it at first or not, it’s a big lifestyle change: new people, new city and new teaching methods. On top of that we’re part of a generation recovering from the strain Covid put us through. We’ve had multiple lockdowns, A Level grading system changes and that horrible year of online teaching. We’ve definitely had it tough as students, so props to us for making it through.

Today is World Mental Health Day, a day dedicated to education, awareness and advocacy against social stigma. This year’s theme is ensuring mental health and wellbeing for all becomes a global priority.

To aid the theme, we’re compiling a list of resources you can access if you’re struggling as a Manchester student. Whether your experiencing uni loneliness, work load stress, something going on at home or other issues; it’s a good idea to take a step back, take a breath and consider seeking support for what you’re going through.

ResLife Team

If you’re a student in halls, emailing your ResLife advisor is a great place to start. The ResLife team is made up of staff and postgraduate students, so they’ve been through the university transition period themselves and they are there to talk about any other concerns.

There should be a poster in every flat with your ResLife advisor’s name, picture and email address.

Counselling

The University of Manchester have a counselling service. It provides strictly confidential support and aims to help with personal issues affecting work, self-esteem, relationships, sexuality, mental health and general wellbeing.

Wellbeing Rooms

There are several of these rooms on Main Campus and North Campus. The rooms are a place to relax and escape the pressures of University. They have various courses from Yoga to Belly Dancing. These rooms courses get you to exercise, get in shape and help reduce your anxiety.

Apply for mitigating circumstances and extensions

If you’ve been struggling with your mental health over an exam period, don’t be shy to apply for mitigating circumstances and extensions. It’s important to let the university know what you’re going through so they can try their best to help you out and make sure you receive a grade that reflects your true ability and potential.

If your exam period has already passed, you can still apply for mitigating circumstances.

Nightline

Nightline is a confidential listening service run for students by students. It is a listening service where you can talk about anything you like. You can use their instant messaging service every day between 8pm and 8am term time. The link to the service can be found on their website during opening hours. Alternatively their ‘Nightmail’ is open 24 hours on [email protected].

External Support

There are many external charities that provide free mental health support across the UK.

Samaritans, offers help for everyone experiencing suicidal thoughts, or for people who need assistance on helping someone. They are available 24 hours a day and 365 days a year. Call on 116 123.

Calm (Campaign against living miserably), offers help to men feeling down or suicidal. Their helpline is available 5am-midnight, 365 days of the year. Call on 0800 58 58 58. Alternatively you can visit their website for a webchat.

Anxiety UK, provide support for those with anxiety, stress and anxiety-based depression conditions. Their helpline is available for all ages and runs between 9.30am – 5.30pm, Monday – Friday (except bank holidays). Call on 03444 775 774.

Papyrus offers a service for people under 35 and it is a charity that aids suicide prevention. You can call them from 9am-10pm Monday-Friday and between 2-10pm on weekends and bank holidays. Call on 0800 068 41 41.