#UniMentalHealthDay – Student Wellbeing Services monthly blog

This months student wellbeing blog is written by Alicia from Student Wellbeing Services. The blog explores #UniMentalHealthDay, support and looking after ourselves:

The University of Reading believes that everyone should have the same opportunities. We are a community that is understanding and open-minded and want to make sure that students feel they can access services and resources to support better self-care, good health, and wellbeing.

We can all experience emotional difficulties at some point, but this is not something to be ashamed of. On the contrary, when we are not feeling well, it is a sign that we need to do something differently, just like when we feel hungry, we know we need to eat something to restore our energy, the same for when we notice that we are out of balance.

We all have mental health, and it is helpful to increase our emotional literacy to express our feelings, understand our reactions and find ways to problem-solve difficulties. To maintain our physical and mental wellbeing, we need to look after ourselves. University Mental Health Day is an opportunity to raise awareness and increase the understanding that it enables us to take charge of our well-being and prevent problems if we look after ourselves.

To help you look after yourself, read the latest Life Tools blog ‘Be well and do well: Benefits of self-care – which remind us of the benefit of looking after ourselves to do well and keep well.

Understanding the importance of maintaining good mental health enables us to feel well, derive a sense of achievement. It also allows us to regulate our emotions so all students can engage in learning and thrive. Engaging in learning, being connected to a community, and having a sense of achievement contribute to developing a sense of wellbeing.

University Mental Health Day is also about understanding each other and each other’s mental health. Some students may be experiencing difficulties that can make it harder to engage in student life. We have a range of resources and services on campus for all students; these will allow us to better understand ourselves and each other.

We all can benefit from an external perspective when things are more difficult. Please see the resources available to you through the University: