January 24, 2019, by Issy
Talking about your Mental Health
One of the best treatments for many mental health issues is to talk about the way that you are feeling to others. This often gives you a literal feeling of release – getting everything off your chest can be so much of a relief that you actually feel significantly better after doing so.
However, the temptation is to bottle it up, not to let anyone know you are struggling, especially if you worry you will be a ‘burden’ to someone else. However, and I speak for the vast majority here, as a friend, as family, I would so much rather know and be able to help, than not be there for someone in need.
There are so many people out there who are there for you, whether you want to talk, ask questions, be signposted for further help or anything else, for big, or small issues, or even just for a chat – who is right for you differs slightly for every single one of us. In Nottingham, some examples are:
Your friends
Having a chat with your mates can be a really good way to talk through issues you may be having – they may have been through similar things, and able to offer advice, or simply just be there for you in a time of need.
Your family
Even though they may not be based in Nottingham, a phone call, video call, or even a quick trip home to speak to your family or people from home, is often a great remedy for when you aren’t feeling so great – there is real meaning in home comforts, and all these people want is the best for you.
Your Personal Tutor/ Senior Tutor
Your personal tutor at the university is a welfare point of contact – they are there to offer wellbeing support when needed, and signpost you to the best service for you, if necessary. If you do not feel like your personal tutor is someone you can readily talk to about your issues, then talking to another member of staff is also always an option. For example, senior tutors within each school have appointments available for students to talk through any issues they may be having, and are empathetic, understanding and non-judgemental people, as you would expect from any member of staff
Student Services
There are many student service centres, dotted around all UoN campuses. Student Services Welfare staff are available for students to drop in, or make an appointment, to chat about anything that may be concerning them, and to signpost them to the right service for them to get further help, or offer self-help advice.
GP
You can always visit the GP to discuss any issues you may have, especially if you feel you may want to be referred on for further treatment. For some of the more serious mental health cases, you may be referred to the University’s specialist Mental Health Advisory Service, who can act as a liaison between yourself and services you can access, as well as people who can help.
The Counselling Service
Offers a place to talk through and work through your issues with a counsellor, in a supportive environment, through pre-arranged appointments.
Of course, all of these services are confidential and their sole aim is to help improve your emotional wellbeing, and support you in your journey through university and beyond. Furthermore, some ways you can support your friends include being open, conscientious and supportive to each other – don’t be afraid to ask ‘are you sure you are okay?’ – for someone who is struggling, just being asked can be the difference between feeling alone and feeling that there is someone else there for them.
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