Low mood and depression are very common issues, affecting many students.
Depression is a serious and potentially debilitating condition, which can, on occasion, be life threatening. If you think you are experiencing depression it's important that you seek help as soon as possible.
It is advisable to speak with your GP if you are feeling persistently low, especially if your daily functioning is significantly affected. You should also let your personal tutor or course leader know if you are having difficulties affecting your studies - they are there to help, and can offer useful advice and support. If you are contemplating hurting yourself, urgent support is available.
You can learn skills to help you manage low mood and milder depression, and there are a lot of other resources available that can help to manage moderate to severe depression.
You can access advice and support from us in the Student Wellbeing Service as a first step, and we can also help you access appropriate NHS mental health services, where relevant. At any time, you can also consult with your GP, or seek specialist support from external services.
Useful resources about depression
Students Against Depression >
Info about how depression works and why it arises, along with step by step advice for self-help strategies, as well as guidance about getting the most from different support and treatment.
Campaign Against Living Miserably >
A UK-wide campaign to unite against suicide, including a helpline, livechat, and practical info to help you move forward.
Centre for Clinical Interventions >
The Centre for Clinical Interventions is a specialised clinical psychology service
Kooth >
Get free, safe and anonymous support.
More wellbeing help
Take a look at our other resources and sources of support for help with everything - from issues with alcohol, to healing from trauma.
Contact the Student Wellbeing Service
Access mental health support and guidance from our friendly team of wellbeing advisers, counsellors and advisers:
Or you can contact us via:
- +44 (0)23 9284 3466
- The Bateson Centre, The Mary Rose St, Portsmouth, PO1 2BL
- wellbeing-admin@port.ac.uk
You can also find us on Instagram and Facebook.
Worried about a student? Whether you're a friend, member of University staff, family member or medical professional you can raise a concern so our service can help.