Feeling miserable at university?

Is this your first time away from home, from your family and friends? Are you feeling depressed, unhappy, more anxious or perhaps more stressed?

Going to university is an exciting experience for some but for many it can also be a very daunting experience. Perhaps you are having difficulty making friends, you are missing your family and home friends, struggling to live on your own and look after yourself, feeling anxious being away from home, struggling to balance your studies with other commitments or feeling lonely and miserable.

It is important to not suffer alone and get overwhelmed by how you are feeling. You are not alone.

Here are 10 helpful tips if your feelings are getting on top of you:

Tip #1 -Do some mindfulness exercises. A few minutes of grounding or breathing can help calm an anxious mind and bring your focus back to the present moment. Simple exercises can be found online or through an app.  

Tip #2 - Do something that you love to do and helps you to relax. For example reading, drawing, cooking or watching a film.

Tip #3 -Keep a diary of your feelings and emotions so that you can become aware of the triggers. This can help you understand patterns and therefore make small, supportive changes.

Tip #4 - Do regular exercise. Exercise supports mental wellbeing by reducing stress hormones and boosting endorophins so go to the gym, go for a run with a friend, play a team sport for example.

Tip #5 - Join a society. University/college societies are a great way to meet people with similar interests. Shared activities naturally create opportunities for connection, making friendships easier to form.

Tip #6 - Be friends with different groups rather than just the first person you met when you started university. Try new activities and give yourself permission to meet different groups.

Tip #7 - Try to get enough sleep. I know this can be difficult at university but lack of sleep can make you feel more miserable if you are already feeling sad. Small habits like keeping your phone away from your bed or creating a calm evening routine can help with sleep.

Tip #8 - Listen to music. Music can be a great way to boost your mood, reduce anxiety and help you feel more grounded. Joining a band or music group can also be a lovely way to meet others.

Tip #9 - Share how you are feeling with friends and family. This can bring comfort and perspective . You don’t have to make sense of everything alone.

Tip #10 - Find out what university support service/counselling is available. Register with the GP. Helplines and private therapy services can also offer confidential, specialist support.

There is no need to suffer alone. For further help and coping strategies, please get in touch to arrange an initial FREE 15 minute telephone call.