Managing stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges is crucial to a successful university experience, and a key university priority.
The University of Cambridge’s Student Wellbeing pages contain a wealth of information covering everything concerning student wellbeing including:
- College pastoral support
- University and other support
- the NHS and healthcare
- personal safety and travel
- equality, diversity and inclusion
- helpful contacts and resources
- information for parents and undergraduate
Sidney puts a strong focus on mindfulness, and we are always exploring innovative ways to continue to offer students advice and practical coping strategies. Examples include yoga, art therapy sessions and chocolate-making workshops during the exam period.
- Counselling
University Counselling Service (UCS) is available to all undergraduate students in residence and graduate students on the register. They offer one to one counselling and different therapeutic groups. All are accessed on a self-referral basis.
How do I make an appointment?
Many people sort out problems by talking to friends, family or staff in their College or Department. Sometimes looking up some information about things that are concerning students is helpful and UCS has a large selection of self-help information available on their website. However, there are times when this is not enough and students may wish to speak to the College-based Counsellor in a private setting in College.
- Mindfulness
Mindfulness sessions are offered both in College and at the University Counselling Service.
Mindfulness at Cam offer classes open to all students, focusing on building insight and resilience in different areas of the student experience and are run throughout each of the three Cambridge terms.
- Student Minds Cambridge
Student Minds Cambridge have designed an excellent Student Support Guide to help students find the support services available.
- External resources and help
Cambridge and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust is the local mental health trust here in Cambridge. They offer various psychological therapies and support for anyone struggling with their mental health.
Inner space is a meditation centre opposite King's College - they run daily lunch time meditations for free.
All students are required to register with a local doctor's surgery during their studies. The GP can act as a vital support for students who need a more medical intervention.
Samaritans and Nightline are two confidential phone lines that people can use to speak to someone when they need a listening ear.