Mental health at university can be a rollercoaster. There are so many changes in a student's life – a new environment, routine, and so many people to get to know – and it can be difficult to navigate the transition into uni life.

When I was a first year, the campus felt enormous, and everyone seemed to know each other already. I didn’t know where to sit for lunch, or how to use the library, or any of the secret tips older students seemed to know.

Here’s the secret: no one else really knows what they’re doing, either. I’m a final year student now and there are still things I’m learning about university life; the difference is that where it used to be scary, now it’s exciting. To make that change, there were a few things I had to do.

First and most importantly, I had to find the courage to reach out for help. The wellbeing services were my first point of call, and a few sessions of counselling were a huge help. Then, when I felt increasingly nervous on campus, I knew the only way to get used to it was by being there. So, I applied for the next round of Students’ Union student staff jobs. And by making that step, I challenged myself to expand my comfort zone, and I was able to overcome my anxiety.

I learned that reaching out for help was the best way to reduce my isolation, and speaking about my situation made me feel less alone. I was able to build a support network in a supportive environment, and even encourage the people around me to talk about their mental health, too.

Speaking about mental health is important because it creates a bridge between personal experience and outside support; it’s the first step towards solutions and practical help. Psychological research proves that talking about your feelings can reduce distress and promote healing, and it also allows you to process difficult emotions. Talking is not just about unburdening; it helps your brain make sense of emotional experiences, and you can find relief in being heard without judgement.

The point is, there are so many ways you can get help and support at university: Wellbeing and Disability Services, the Students’ Union, Advice Centre, your lecturers, friends, and even the societies and clubs you can join. Creating a support network is a great way to improve your mental health, and talking about your struggles is the best way to make them understandable and, most importantly, treatable.