Hi there! My name is Saima and I am a Psychology student at the University of Exeter and a Crisis Recovery Worker at The Moorings. In support of Student Mental Health Week, I wanted to share some of my lived experience.

This year's theme is human connection. Research shows that at least one in three students has felt, or currently feels, lonely. One way this isolation can be eased is by developing 'strong connections' that 'help support us through difficult times and make good times even brighter,' as shared by Student Minds. Connection can enhance our joyful moments and can help us get through our darker days.

"One of the biggest lessons I have learned is that I do not have to face everything alone, reaching out sooner rather than later made a huge difference." 

Alongside my academic studies, I have been learning how to manage my mental health. It is an ongoing journey that has been challenging, empowering, and at times frustrating, but all a part of my healing. One of the biggest lessons I have learned is that I do not have to face everything alone; reaching out sooner rather than later made a huge difference. It also showed me that I can advocate for myself, and by accessing support from a range of sources, I have developed a personalised 'toolkit' of coping strategies to rely on.

I know that struggling with your mental health can feel incredibly isolating, but I want to remind you that you are not alone, even if it feels that way.

If you are finding things difficult, here are some support options to consider:

• Speaking with your GP about your mental health challenges
• Reaching out to wellbeing services and/or peer support groups at your university
• Contacting specialist organisations such as ADHD UK or BEAT
• Accessing emotional support from crisis services such as The Moorings (phone, video call, or in-person)
• Calling 111 for the 24/7 Access & First Response team for urgent mental health support
• Calling 999 or attending A&E for emergency mental health support.

As part of Student Mental Health Week, I want to emphasise that asking for help is not a weakness; it takes immense courage. Choosing connection over isolation can be a powerful step forward, and the right conversation, at the right time, can genuinely change how things feel. Mental health is not always visible, so take a moment this week to check in with yourself and the people around you.

Remember that help is out there, things can get better, and you are never alone on this journey.