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World Mental Health Day 2021

5 October 2021

World Mental Health Day is observed on Sunday 10 October. This year, we’re encouraging students to take some time to reflect on their personal wellbeing and join our events on campus.

A bushy big-leaved monstera plant in a bright room

University life can be stressful and the COVID-19 pandemic has put a huge amount of extra strain on students and their mental health. The pressures on students are not insignificant, and feeling like things are all a bit much is valid.

We all have mental health, and we will all have times where we struggle with it: but there is lots of support available for you. Good mental health looks different for each person, but it may involve having a sense of purpose, strong relationships, feeling connected to your communities, knowing (or discovering) who you are, as well as coping with stress and enjoying life.   

With the new academic year now in full swing, there are many habits and activities that may support your mental health and help you to be resilient – so when those deadlines do hit, your toolkit will help you weather the storm. These include exercising, eating well, getting enough sleep, seeing friends, and doing things you enjoy. Incorporating some of these into your daily life may support your mental health, and also help you to get the most out of your time at UCL. Why not start by joining some of the activities organised by the Students’ Union Project Active.

Student Support and Wellbeing are here for you

If you feel like you are struggling at any point throughout your time with us at UCL, there is always help available to you. Whether through counselling or at an appointment with our Disability, Mental Health and Wellbeing team, our professional staff can provide you with confidential advice and support on many things relating to mental health and wellbeing. All of our support services are free of charge and open to all UCL students of all levels.  Find out how you can get in touch with Student Support and Wellbeing.

Activities on campus on Monday 11October

On Monday 11 October, Student Support and Wellbeing will be marking World Mental Health Day with the following activities.

Board of positivity, 10am-4pm

Thinking about our strengths is an important counter to our critical selves. Ever heard your internal monologue focus mostly on what you aren’t good at, rather than what you are? Well, we’re thinking about what we are good at, and what we’re grateful for on Monday. Drop by our stand in the Student Centre where we’ll be inviting you to write 3 things you like about yourself on a post-it note. Pin this onto the board and share your 3 things with the world - then see what others wrote. You might just surprise yourself!

Therapy dogs, 1pm-3pm

Give your wellbeing an instant boost by popping along to see some of our wonderful therapy dogs who will be in the Japanese Garden (between the Student Centre and the Wilkins building) between 1pm-3pm. The infamous Harvey will even be there! 

Therapy dog Harvey on campus