Mental health and wellbeing: University support

Support available at university or college

Wellbeing services team

Depending on your university, this may have a different name – it’s a good idea to find out what services they offer and how to get in touch with them before you arrive.

This would usually be your first place to get information about what's available at your university – from general wellbeing support to help with a specific mental health condition or difficulty.

Check your university website for their wellbeing pages.

Counselling services

Most universities and colleges provide counselling for students who need emotional support. Student services or the students’ union (or other student body) can give you information about what’s available – make sure you check the university or college website too.

Mental health advisers

Student support teams often include specialist advisers dedicated to helping students with mental health difficulties. This help is not limited to people with diagnosed conditions – it’s available to all students who'd like support to cope with any aspect of life. You don’t have to wait until you arrive at university or college to contact the mental health adviser. In fact, it’s a good idea to contact them when you've been offered a place on the course, so they can ensure you’re fully supported and feel confident when you arrive.

UMHAN (University Mental Health Advisers Network)

Medical support

Most campuses have an on-site medical centre, so if you require ongoing medical care, you can arrange this in advance. Alternatively, there will be GP services in your area – speak to the wellbeing team or student support services will be able to give more details.

Tools and resources

Some universities offer wellbeing apps, tools and other services (e.g. Nightline) specifically for their students – the details will be available from the wellbeing team or student support services, and check the website.

Specific mental health support

Most universities and colleges will be able to offer services and support tailored to your individual needs – for example, neurodiversity mentoring, support for specific learning differences, and counselling (see below). The student support team, mental health adviser or disability adviser will be happy to give you more information.

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Looking after your wellbeing

UMHAN's video looks at what helps students achieve mental wellbeing and how to avoid the risks that make mental ill health more likely.

Student sat in the window using a laptop

Sharing a mental health condition on your uni application

Read our advice on how to confidentally share personal information with your university, and what will be done with your information.

Disabled Students' Allowances (DSAs)

Students who incur extra study-related costs as a result of a physical or mental health condition or learning difference can apply for DSAs. You apply for DSAs alongside student finance, and they enable you to get the support you need at university or college – the amount you receive depends on your individual needs following a needs assessment.

If you are not sure you are eligible, it’s worth applying. Even if you don’t get a DSA, you can still get help from your university or college – remember to share an impairment or condition in the UCAS application so they can arrange support for you.

International students

If you are applying to university as an international student, you can access support for your mental health and wellbeing from the university or college – and share a condition using the UCAS application.

Mental health support as an international student from UKCISA

The Charlie Waller Trust's guide for international students

Get the right support for your individual circumstances

By making sure you have the right support for your personal circumstances, you'll be looking after your mental health and wellbeing too.

Support for students with individual needs

Where to get more support and information

This can be a very exciting time, but it’s also completely natural to feel nervous. Read UCAS' guide for our top tips about managing your money, making friends, looking after your mental health, and more.

The student mental health charity offering information and resources for all aspects of student life

A hub of resources from Student Space, offering information, advice, and free mental health services to help students.

The student mental health hub from Mind can help you settle in and adjust to your new life at university.

Find out what student mental wellbeing support is available for you. 1.8 million students can now access free, safe, and anonymous mental health support online (providing NHS services).

Their starting university guide to coping with the social aspects of student life, from living with new people to joining clubs and societies.

Hub of Hope is a database of mental health support resources and services – both local and national, and for a wide range of mental health conditions and challenges.

Students in Scotland can find support to manage their mental health and wellbeing on the Think Positive Hub

Find out about common support available for mental health and wellbeing at universities and how to access it.

How to get support from your universities and colleges

If your relationship with your parents or carers has broken down (also known as ‘estranged’), there are people you can turn to for help when you research your options, start your application, or think about your transition to university or college.

Students' unions

Students' unions put together social events, sports, and societies for a wide range of different hobbies and interests. Find out more here.