Every Monday, firstpoint publishes five points about a topic related to life at university. This week, if you are feeling worried, stressed or homesick – or perhaps concerned about a friend’s wellbeing – you are not on your own. Here are our five points on getting support…
POINT ONE: DON’T SIT ON YOUR WORRIES…
At firstpoint, we are here to help you access information and support during your studies. Even if you’re not sure what to ask, or where to start, please come and speak to a firstpoint adviser. You don’t need an appointment, just pop in during our opening hours. You can always ask to speak away from the desk if you need somewhere more private, or if you prefer, you can email or call us for advice. Find out more about us and the ways you can get in touch on the firstpoint webpages.
POINT TWO: FANCY A CUPPA…
‘Fancy a Cuppa?’ is an opportunity to meet fellow students and support staff in an informal and casual setting, with relaxing activities to participate in, such as mindful colouring, wordsearches and books to read. Free hot drinks and biscuits are also available. It is hosted twice a week, throughout the academic year, in firstpoint, by Student Wellbeing Champions and Student Services Staff and is open to all students across all years and academic courses.
Every other week, Pets As Therapy dogs and volunteers also join the session to come and say hello and to offer a boost to your wellbeing. Find out more on the Fancy A Cuppa webpage.
The team also run a weekly Craft and Cuppa Club, every Wednesday from 1pm-2pm, in The Hangar, which offers a welcoming and relaxed space for you to get creative and connect with others. Crafting has been proven to reduce stress, improve focus, and promote a sense of accomplishment. Taking time out to be creative is a wonderful way to look after your mental health, meet new people, build friendships, and connect with a supportive community. Socialising is essential for wellbeing, and Craft and Cuppa provides the perfect opportunity to do just that. Take a break from your studies and enjoy a moment of calm and creativity. Find out more on the Craft and Cuppa Club webpage.
POINT THREE: STUDENT SUPPORT AND WELLBEING TEAM…
If you would like a 1:1 chat, the Student Support and Wellbeing team offer a confidential support service on a broad range of pastoral and welfare issues and would be happy to meet with you about any concerns that are affecting your time at the University of Worcester.
You can book an appointment by emailing them directly on: studentlife@worc.ac.uk, or by contacting firstpoint. Find out more information about what they can support you with, by taking a look at the Student Support and Wellbeing webpage.
POINT FOUR: IF YOU’RE CONCERNED ABOUT A FRIEND…
If you are concerned about someone else on your course, a housemate or a friend who appears to be struggling, here are some suggestions of what you can do to help them:
Be there and listen:
- Sometimes that’s all it takes to know that someone cares and is there for them
- Student Minds provides a great Look After Your Mate guide on supporting your friends through university life, but remember to also take care of your own mental health and be realistic about how much support you can offer them and to ask for help when needed.
Encourage them to seek help by:
- contacting firstpoint so that we can help them access the most appropriate support
- booking a STAR (Support, Triage, Advice, Refer) appointment with the university’s Counselling and Mental Health Service either via firstpoint or directly on the online booking form here. Appointments are available Monday to Friday between 9am to 4:30pm
- visiting their GP
- reaching out to their friends or family
In an emergency situation:
- call 999 or University Security (01905 855000), as appropriate
If your friend is reluctant to seek help, then you can still book a STAR appointment for yourself with the Counselling & Mental Health Service or 1:1 appointment with the Student Support & Wellbeing Service, to ensure you are supported and receive advice on the best next steps. Contact firstpoint if you are unsure where to start.
POINT FIVE: FINDING OTHER SOURCES OF SUPPORT…
The University’s Counselling and Mental Health Service has lots of information about self-help techniques on a wide range of topics. Have a look on their self-help webpage, or on the NHS Mental Health Support in Herefordshire and Worcestershire page.
The University Study Skills webpages also have guides on topics such as “Self-Care and Wellbeing”.
Take a look at firstpoint’s Wellbeing & Support page where you’ll find lots of useful information on looking after your wellbeing and the support that is available throughout university life.
The most important thing is to know that you are not alone – we’re here to help support you throughout your university journey and so if you are not sure what to do or who to speak to, come and have at chat with us here at firstpoint.
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