University Mental Health Day 2026: how can students take care of their mental health?
University Mental Health Day aims to get the nation talking about student mental health. With two of our courses delivered in partnership with Anglia Ruskin University and one of our very own staff members currently completing her Degree Apprenticeship, we’re thinking about the importance of this day and how we can support students and their mental health.
Digital Marketing Apprentice Uwineza gives us her reflections in this blog for University Mental Health Day.
This year’s University Mental Health Day theme is Human Connection, which feels especially meaningful to me as both a student and someone working at Renew.
University life has been such a transformative time for me, in more ways than one. While I’ve had lots of new opportunities, lots of new pressures have come with them! That’s why it’s easy to become overwhelmed by everything.
As someone who works alongside getting a degree, I know that when important deadlines and financial pressures start to pile up, I often try to cope with everything alone. Working at Renew has shown me that something that might seem “little”, like opening up to someone about how I’m feeling or what I’m going through, can actually be incredibly important. It makes such a difference to my mental wellbeing and is a great reminder that you don’t have to suffer in silence.
Knowing where to start when you’re struggling can be hard, so here are some things that I find useful when trying to navigate this:
- Talking to someone I trust
- Taking small breaks from any academic pressure I’m feeling:
- I usually go on a walk or take a moment to ground myself by doing something I like to do
- Staying connected with others:
- Becoming a committee member in my society has definitely helped me to stay connected with others, through attending events online and in-person, and just having that community to turn to!
- Even a quick catch-up with friends can make the world of difference
- Being kind to myself:
- It’s important to know that struggling sometimes is okay. Treating myself with the same compassion that I’d offer a friend helps when I’m struggling.
- Knowing that professional support is available!
The staff at Renew understand that life can be challenging, especially during periods of change like university life. I’ve seen firsthand how the charity provides a safe, supportive space where people feel encouraged to be themselves.
Through supportive conversations with trained counsellors, Renew helps people to reconnect with themselves. Human connection is at the heart of what the charity does. o. Talking to someone who is truly listening can lift some of that weight and remind you that you don’t have to face it alone, so I’d definitely encourage any students struggling to reach out.
Renew is here for you
Whether you’ve stayed at home or moved away for university, you don’t have to do it alone, I know that the counsellors and support staff here at Renew are so kind and approachable and will be here for you when you need them.
Reaching out for support can be the first step toward feeling more connected and supported.
We’d love to hear from you. You can get in touch with the Renew team to learn more about counselling or access support. Just email info@renew.org.uk or call 01245 359353.
