Attending university can be both an exciting and stressful time. It is also a period in a young person’s life where issues may seem magnified due to pressures and/or being away from home.
Fortunately, there are many student support services that are run by people trained to provide help and guidance to students experiencing problems. Scroll down for more information.
Student Support Organisations
Student Counselling
Part of the BACP organisation, this student counselling resource provides information about the support available to all students of UK Universities. They have a database containing contact information for just about every University counselling service and offer advice about common problems experienced by students.
Student Counselling
Student counselling is offered by all Universities and Colleges. The service is free to anyone that has enrolled on a course. Student counsellors are usually trained professionals, adept at providing confidential support over the phone, through e-mails or face-to-face meetings.
Student Helplines
Samaritans – 08457 90 90 90
For those who don’t know the number of their student counselling service, it may be helpful to call the Samaritans to discuss a problem. Their lines are staffed by trained advisors who provide confidential support for any issue.
Student Issues
Although commencing a university degree can be an exciting time, it can also be a daunting prospect. In some cases students have to move away from home in order to attend their chosen course, which may require a period of adjustment. This can be a difficult transition for a young person, as they get used to new-found independence and a different way of life.
University counsellors are there for students to discuss any problem they might have. Some of the most common issues include homesickness, exam worries, concerns about presentations/course work, relationship problems and loneliness. Counselling is usually on a short-term basis although further help may be recommended, depending on the seriousness of the issue.
The support of friends is often helpful to students experiencing difficult times although it is sometimes best advised to seek professional support for more serious problems. Student counsellors will not have any conflicts of interest and will be able to provide unbiased, clear advice. It is important to stress that counselling should not be viewed as a sign of weakness. In fact seeking out help and support for a problem requires strength and courage.
