Services to support you at university
Eloise Barker
Primary and Early Years Education with QTS BA(Hons) - Second Year
Hi, I’m Eloise and I’m in my second year at uni studying Primary and Early Years Education with QTS BA(Hons). I’m interested in reading, and I love listening to music and spending time with friends.
I'm Eloise Barker and I'm studying for a BA in Primary Education. I live in student accommodation and I'm also a first-year student.
Mental health is a major aspect when it comes to change, whether you’re just starting university, struggling with upcoming assignments or any other situations.
Mental health is crucial. We always need to look after ourselves and at the University of Huddersfield there are many options available for you. Whether it's just been a few hard days or an ongoing problem, help is available no matter how big or small the problem feels.
The University has many things to help you manage your mental health, from ActiveHud to the library, areas where you're able to spend independent time working on yourself, and services such as the Wellbeing and Disability support. It's important to be aware of these services because you never know when you may need to reach out!
Students can also improve their mental health by doing small daily activities that can lift your mood, even if it's just a short walk. Taking some time for yourself during your studies regularly will benefit you, I personally feel that me-time is extremely important.
Everybody matters and the University is there to support you alongside your studies, you will never be alone.
iPoint works closely with Wellbeing and Disability Services. The team can help you book appointments and provide you with more information.
Wellbeing and Disability Services help with physical disabilities, emotional/mental health and more. They can offer you help with your studies and counselling services.
The advisors are all comforting and supportive and are a good option if you just need someone to talk to. You must book an appointment, however, this is usually just a quick email and can be very easily arranged on a day that's best for you. It's free of charge and also confidential, which I found comforting. You can find these services in Student Central.
I've had personal experience using these services, and they've helped me to grow in confidence and self-esteem, as well as learn to open up. At first, it can feel quite nerve-wracking, but the team is very approachable and I found it easy to confide in the staff.
There's also an app called Togetherall which can be a useful tool. It's an online service that provides a chat forum where you can speak to trained professionals or other students who are going through similar things.
It can be nice to just let out all of your feelings on there with no judgement, as it stays anonymous. You also create your username so you can be sure the name you choose doesn't make you identifiable.
Each and every service mentioned is important. It's your choice whether you choose to use the online app, approach Wellbeing and Disability Services, join a gym or find a different way that suits you better.
If you're considering any of these services but feel nervous, then that's okay.
It can be hard to ask for help and support but in the long run, it will benefit you and help you to manage your studies.
If, after reading this, you're thinking "yes I want to take that leap", I would suggest speaking to iPoint or emailing these services privately. They can provide you with any more information you may need and can help ensure you will be supported throughout your time at university.
I wish you all the best on your journeys!
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