Emily is a first year student studying Marketing at Ulster University Belfast, staying in student accommodation.
Hello Emily, my name is Clodagh, an Interaction Design at Ulster University. I’m working on a project focusing on how the impact mental health has on a student when at university. Is it ok, if I ask you some questions about your experience with mental health at university?
When I first started my course and moved into my flat, I felt overwhelmed trying to adjust to a new environment and meeting new people. The first few weeks were challenging as I tried to settle in and adapt to being away from home and the transition from A-levels. Establishing a routine and taking regular breaks has helped me cope.
I feel intense pressure when multiple module assignments have overlapping deadlines. Without the strict structure I had in school, I struggle with procrastination. When I've been out socialising the night before, it's hard to focus in class, this makes it difficult to understand the content later when studying for tests.
No, not really. Some lecturers seem approachable, but I don't feel comfortable openly discussing mental health with them. I worry about being judged or not being taken seriously. If there was more encouragement to talk about this subject, it would make a difference.
I think the main issue with the support services is that they aren't advertised well enough. Students need more awareness about these services and how to access them. I've heard mixed reviews some students say it helped them, while others complain about long waiting lists.
It's overwhelming to know where to start since there are so many contacts and resources available, yet it's unclear which ones I actually need. The university's website is difficult to navigate through the wellbeing section. It's especially challenging to admit you're struggling when you're uncertain about what support they can provide.
I maintain a daily routine since it's easy to stay in bed all day without parents around to guide you. I make an effort to exercise regularly and cook meals instead of ordering takeout, though that's often tempting. I keep a weekly to-do list and make sure to set aside one day where I don't do any university work.
I would suggest regular mental health check-ins with lecturers to identify struggling students, especially during first year when everything is unfamiliar. Making mental health resources more noticeable through regular email updates and student portal notifications would help raise awareness of available support services.