Accessibility Statement
The wellbeing of all students is a priority for the University of Brighton. Dedicated support is available from our Student Services team which includes online advice and guidance on a range of issues as well as extra help via our wellbeing services.
BSU are independent from the University of Brighton. You can talk to them about your course, concerns or wellbeing and receive impartial advice.
The University is signed up to Togetherall, an online service and community that provides support with anxiety, depression and other mental health isues. Login with your University username and password to access the service and find out more.
The library has put together a reading list of books, guides and online resources designed to offer practical support with physical health and mental wellbeing. These have been recommended by the University's Counselling and Wellbeing service.
Many of our resources are available online. Using the filter button, select 'Online Resource' to view items that you will be able to access on your computer or mobile device.
Using helpful apps can be a great way to maintain good physical and mental health because they are available at our fingertips; so many of us go everywhere with our phones! Many apps offer free content and we have put together a list that we think offer really relevant and convenient support with issues surrounding health and wellbeing.
Reading Well Books on Prescription is a scheme designed by the Reading Agency in partnership with local authority libraries. More than simply a list of self help books, this is a tool to help individuals to manage their health and wellbeing. Titles are selected by health professionals and those living with conditions and are an accessible route into care and treatment for many health issues. Local public library services stock many of the recommended books.
Putting together this guide we have been inspired by the Five Ways to Wellbeing model. For more information see the NHS 5 steps to mental wellbeing (hyperlink).
You're at uni - you're already learning, right? Taking an interest in a new skill has been shown to boost your wellbeing, and resources such as LinkedIn Learning offers a range of learning materials on personal and professional development topics. It's available free to University of Brighton students and staff.
There's some fantastic videos giving introductions to topics like mindfulness, creativity and yoga that are free to access. They are short and designed for all levels of experience and knowledge so a great way to dip your toe into some techniques that promote health and wellbeing.
Getting and staying active is a great way to improve your mental as well as physical wellbeing, and it doesn't necessarily mean shelling out for the gym. It could be as simple as getting out for a walk once a day and really taking the time to notice what's around you - as well as getting active it's a great way to practise mindfulness. Or, join a sports club and meet some new people at the same time.
The NHS website has a list of great ways to get fit for free:
Being away from home can be hard, and finding ways to meet new friends can be a daunting task. Get involved with Brighton Students' Union activities to help connect you with likeminded people, or try expanding your horizons by going for something completely new. You could join a society, help raise funds by charity volunteering or get involved with the student newspaper, TV and radio stations.
Mindfulness involves paying attention to what is going on inside and outside ourselves, moment by moment. It can be easy to feel like you're losing yourself in the world, but taking some time to practise mindfulness can help you to process the world around you and improve your mental wellbeing. If you want to try it out yourself, take a look at this NHS-recommended mindful breathing exercise.
There are many, many ways to give something - giving your time to help out a friend, a contribution to charity, or volunteering in your community.
The University of Brighton's volunteering service, Active Student, can help you find a volunteering placement that suits your interests and how much time you have to spare. Not only is volunteering good for your wellbeing, but it is a great way to develop your skills and knowledge and will improve your career prospects.