Thrive at Cardiff: Comprehensive Health and Wellbeing Support for Students

Starting university is super exciting, but it can be tough managing your health and wellbeing, especially if you’re far from home. Cardiff University gets this and offers loads of support to help you thrive. From emotional and mental health support to physical wellbeing resources, they’ve got you covered. Whether you need quick advice, counselling, or just someone to talk to, Cardiff is here to help. Let’s explore how these services can make your university life healthier and happier.

Getting Urgent Help When You Need It

Sometimes, things can get pretty overwhelming, and you might find yourself needing urgent help. Whether it’s a sudden health scare or an emotional crisis, Cardiff University has several ways to support you right when you need it. Here’s a quick guide to getting urgent advice and help.

In an Emergency: If there’s an immediate danger, like if someone has a weapon or there’s a threat to someone’s life, you should dial 999 right away. Also, make sure to notify University Security at +44 (0)29 2087 4444.

Urgent Medical Services: If you need medical help but aren’t sure if it’s an emergency, call 111 for 24/7 advice from NHS Wales. They can guide you to the right service, whether it’s an emergency unit or another type of care.

Serious Concerns: If you’re really worried about your own or someone else’s safety but it’s not an emergency, you can contact the Student Intervention Team (SIT) during office hours. They’re part of the university’s Student Health and Wellbeing service and can help with serious mental health or wellbeing issues.

Remember, it’s okay to reach out and ask for help when you need it. Cardiff University is here to support you, so you don’t have to face these challenges alone.

Discovering Self-Help Resources

As an international student, I’ve definitely had my fair share of challenges. Homesickness hits hard, especially when you can’t video call your family because of time zone differences. There have been times when I felt really lonely and out of place. On top of that, I’ve struggled with speech anxiety, making class presentations a real nightmare. But Cardiff University’s self-help resources have been a game-changer for me.

These resources cover everything from managing anxiety and stress to dealing with homesickness and loneliness. They offer tips and tools that you can use on your own, like mindfulness techniques and practical advice for improving sleep and managing time better. The best part is, these resources are available in different formats like websites, apps, and even books, so you can choose what works best for you.

Using these self-help resources has really helped me tackle my issues head-on. I’ve learned how to manage my anxiety, stay connected with my family despite the distance, and even improve my public speaking skills. It’s comforting to know that even when things get tough, there are tools and support available to help you through.

Counselling and Wellbeing Appointments: A Personal Touch

Aside from the self-help resources, Cardiff University also offers counselling and wellbeing appointments for when you really need to talk to someone. I remember feeling really overwhelmed during my first semester. The stress of classes and the anxiety from being so far from home just kept building up. I decided to book a one-to-one session with a counsellor, and it was one of the best decisions I made.

These appointments can be in-person or online, which is super convenient. The counsellors are professional and really understanding, helping you work through whatever you’re dealing with. There are also wellbeing drop-in sessions where you can get quick advice and learn about all the support available. It’s reassuring to know there’s always someone to talk to when things get tough.