Mental health support in the UK

Note: UKCISA doesn't provide mental health advice on our advice line but the following information should direct you to useful support and organisations. 

Moving to a new country, learning different methods of studying and forming new friendship groups can be a very exciting time when you study in the UK. But it can also be very scary if you’re adapting to a new climate, potentially speaking in a different language and feel far from your friends and family. 

Starting a new university, school or college is a big change and all students, whether from the UK or elsewhere, may feel overwhelmed at some point. You’re not alone.

You may experience feeling isolated, distressed, anxious or lonely. International students can have many concerns, including:

• Language barriers
• Not understanding cultural references
• Financial worries
• Exam stress
• Worrying about proving yourself to your parents

There are small steps you can take; making sure you don’t isolate yourself by going outside to a public place can help, or talking about how you’re feeling with a tutor or a friend from home. We have more advice about how to cope in our blog. 

Adapting to life in the UK may be additionally challenging during the Covid-19 pandemic.  Our student ambassadors offer advice on looking after your wellbeing:

• Tips on looking after your mental health
• Reflect on your wellbeing

If you’re feeling upset, like you can’t get motivated or cope with your studies please speak to someone about it. The NHS provides a useful overview of where and when to seek help.