Spreading awareness so that we can all get quality mental health care when we need it. Make sure that no mind is left behind.
We’re in the middle of a mental health crisis. 2 million people are currently stuck on waiting lists for NHS mental health services. And on top of this, mental health stigma is still a significant issue. Real people, being left behind by a broken mental health system.
- Nearly 50% of young people enter higher education, with approximately 1 in 4 reporting having a diagnosed Mental Health Issue whilst at university.
- With lifestyle pressure:
- 28% considered withdrawing
- 60% financial situations having a negative effect on wellbeing
- 56% cut back on socialising
- 1 in 4 students don’t know where to get Mental Health Support
This mental health day, 10 October 2024, we are raising awareness for mental health and encourage you to wear green or yellow on the day.
To support you, your Students’ Union offers the Advice Centre. You can visit them at the Students' Union offices or contact them at suadvice@bnu.ac.uk.
This service is free for students to use to get free confidential advice, guidance, and support. They can get support on issues/concerns relating to academic, accommodation, finance, legal, personal and policies. The have offices in the Uxbridge and High Wycombe campuses and offer in person and online meets.
Buckinghamshire New University is a part of the University Mental Health Charter (UMHC). This is a scheme that university are apart of to support student mental health and ensure they can get the support they need.
The services BNU offer that support this are:
If you or anyone you know is struggling with mental health, here are some things you can follow:
- Check in on yourself. Look at your sleep patterns, the food you are consuming and your eating habits.
- Try deep breathing or other breathing techniques
- Make sure you are prioritising the right things for you.
- Communicate regularly. Speak to others and check in on them too.
- Support. You can use the support services at the union and university.
- Physical Health. Take some time to go for a walk or do some exercise.
- Sleep. Make sure you are getting enough sleep. Between 6-8 hours is recommended. Try shutting off electronics an hour before bed, read a book, try doing something you find relaxing.
- Diet. Ensure you are eating a healthy/balanced diet.
- Action Plan. You can create a plan for when you are feeling low. This would include who to contact, what activities you can do. (https://www.nhs.uk/every-mind-matters/mental-wellbeing-tips/your-mind-plan-quiz/).