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 about planned visits on the Fancy A Cuppa webpage.
A variety of other wellbeing centred events run throughout the academic year during term time, you can find out more about these on the Wellbeing Events page here, or why not subscribe to this blog, where you’ll receive updates of events and helpful information straight to your email account as they’re published!
POINT THREE: STUDENT SUPPORT AND WELLBEING TEAM…
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.
Whether you’re settling into university life, facing unexpected difficulties, or just need someone to talk to, the Student Support and Wellbeing Team is here to make you feel supported, included, and able to make the most of your time here at 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 worried 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 has published some excellent information on supporting yourself and friends through university life – 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
- looking at local and national mental health support options and external sources of help
In an emergency situation call UK emergency services on 999 or the University Security Team on 01905 855000 as appropriate.
If your friend is reluctant to seek help, then you can still book a STAR appointment with the Counselling & Mental Health Service or 1:1 appointment with the Student Support & Wellbeing Service yourself to ensure you are supported and receive advice on the best next steps. Contact firstpoint if you are unsure where to start, we’re here to help.
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. You can also seek guidance 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 Health & Wellbeing 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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