Let’s talk about mental health

According to figures from the UK Government, in England, black people are least likely to be having treatment for mental or emotional problems compared to other ethnic groups (only 6.5% of the black general population were doing so at the time the data was published, compared to 14.5% of white British people).

Over the last few years, many changes have happened in the world and in our personal lives. Many people felt isolated, unsafe and abused during the COVID-19 pandemic and may still live with that trauma. 

Deciding to seek counselling may seem overwhelming, especially if you do not know how to communicate your feelings. But that’s not the only way to find inner peace or understand yourself. Journaling and self-reflection can also get you there.

Here are a few questions that you can go through on your own or with a friend.

Get to know yourself...or a friend

• What is my favourite thing about my personality? 
• I am happiest when…?
• I feel peaceful when…?
• What is unique about me?
• What do I feel most confident about?
• What traits do I admire in other people?
• What traits don’t I like in other people?
• What is my love language?
• How do I like being apologised to?
• What do I think would make me happy?
• What habit would I change?
• What achievement am I most proud of? 
• What is one thing I’ve been procrastinating about getting started?
• Do I fulfil promises I’ve made to myself? If yes, how does that make me feel? If no, what is stopping me?
• What can I forgive myself for today? 
• If 10-year-old me saw me today, what do you think they would say?

Get support at your place of study

If you’d like to talk to someone about any concerns you have about your mental health, your university’s wellbeing service is a good starting point. You can use the search function on the Student Space website to find support available at your place of study. 

At London South Bank University, for example, students can speak to Mental Health and Wellbeing Advisors, counsellors and multi-faith chaplains who will provide an empathetic space to discuss any difficulties.

Alternatively, you can reach out to a mental health charity or other support organisation, such as Shout or The Mix.

Useful resources