If there is an immediate risk to yourself or someone else, you should call the emergency services at 999 immediately. There is also a range of emergency mental health support available from the NHS.
'Mental health' itself is not a condition. Everyone has mental health - the term includes all kinds of emotions, ranging between emotional psychological, and social well-being. For any number of reasons, sometimes your mental health can dip and you could find yourself starting to struggle to function or enjoy the tasks you usually have no issues with.
University and Mental Health
University, whilst incredibly exciting, can be a very difficult and stressful time. Moving somewhere new and surrounding yourself with strangers whilst balancing a challenging degree and living away from home is a lot to take on all in one go, so don't beat yourself up if you find your mental health has taken a hit! Furthermore, sometimes events happen in our lives that turn everything upside-down, and you may not know where to look for support.
University services
Alongside the external services signposted below, there is support available to you as a University of Plymouth student. We would always recommend that the Student Wellbeing Services are your first point of contact. If you want to speak to someone independent from the University, do reach out to us at UPSU Advice. We are not wellbeing professionals, but can offer guidance on wellbeing matters and, when necessary, signpost you to the most relevant, specialist support.
If you need someone to talk to right now:
- Samaritans: 116 123 (Available 24hrs a day, everyday)
- SHOUT: 85258 (Available 24hrs a day, everyday)
- SANEline: 0300 304 7000 (Available 16:00-22:00, everyday)
- Livewell: call 111 and select the mental health option (Available 24hrs a day, everyday)
Helpful Resources:
Last Updated = September 2026