Top tips from students for students to support mental health and wellbeing
October 08, 2026
Studying in the UK can be an exciting experience as you move to a new country, start your course, and meet people from around the world. However, it can also be scary to adjust to different systems, possibly speak a different language, and be away from family and friends.
For this year's World Mental Health Day, with the theme of 'Lived experiences heard', we asked our #WeAreInternational Student Ambassadors to share their top tips for supporting their mental health and wellbeing while studying in the UK.
1. Connect with others
Make a conscious effort to see people, such as attending an activity at the students’ union or going to the library or café.
"One of the most important things for me is making a conscious effort not to isolate myself. When I am feeling stressed or overwhelmed, I try to force myself to get out of the house." Saba Movahed Nia, Queen Mary University of London, Iran
"I like to gather friends and make dumplings or have hotpot together, as it's usually during the cold days that I get most depressed, and having good food and company helps." Serin Baek, University College London, South Korea
2. Look after your physical health
Get out as much sun as you can during the day. Go for a walk, explore the neighbourhood, and make sure to get your steps in. Read our Keeping healthy at Christmas blog from Health Adviser at University of the Arts London Marie Crozier for ideas.
3. Plan activities in advance to look forward to
That may be something familiar or stepping out of your comfort zone.
I find it really helpful to make sure I have something to look forward to, such as an event, a plan with friends, or even a small activity during the week. Having something ahead of me can make difficult or stressful periods feel much more manageable. Saba Movahed Nia
4. Expect culture shock, and give yourself time
Culture shock is common and usually temporary as you adjust to your new surroundings. Talk to friends and other international students, you may find others feel the same way, and you feel less alone in navigating life abroad.
5. Ask for help
Support is available via your university or college. Most institutions have a wellbeing, counselling or support service. You can also find services via your General Practitioner (GP, local doctor) or StudentMinds, Mind, Nightline or the Samaritans. View our list of support services on our advice pages.
This article was written from information from our Mental health support in the UK page with contributions from some of UKCISA’s #WeAreInternational Student Ambassadors.
Read more from our Ambassadors on supporting international students’ mental health and wellbeing:
- Taking care of your mental health as an international student
- Experiences of managing mental health through grief
