Feeling Low

Everyone can feel sad or low at some stage of their lives. Things may happen in your life such as a distressing event or major change in your life which can affect your mood. But sometimes it’s possible to feel low for no clear reason. If you experience a low mood, it can affect how you think, feel and behave and may show symptoms such as:

  • feeling sad or not enjoying things as much as you did
  • feeling anxious or panicky
  • being more tired than usual or sleep problems
  • being irritable
  • feeling angry or frustrated
  • feeling worthless or guilty
  • an increase or decrease in your appetite
  • finding it hard to concentrate
  • loss of interest in sex

A low mood can last a few days, however if it lasts more than 2 weeks then it is recommended you see a GP as it could be a sign of depression.

How can I look after myself?

  • Connect with others – This can be a difficult task when you are feeling low, but talking to those you feel comfortable with can help improve your mood. A lack of motivation or withdrawing are common when experiencing a low mood, so make time to connect with others as they will be there if you need support.
  • Talk about your feelings – Telling others how you feel can help make what you’re going through much clearer and can help you to understand why you may be feeling low so that you can work on how you will manage this.
  • Do things you enjoy – Often with a low mood you may want to stop doing the thigs you enjoy, however by not doing the things you enjoy could make your mood dip more. Make a list of things you enjoy and try and do these regularly, even if it is as simple as listening to music.
  • Look after your physical health – Ensure you are looking after yourself by getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet and getting involved in physical activities. By eating healthy this can improve both your mental and physical health. If you are then able to exercise more, this may help to improve your mood by reducing stress levels and boosting your energy levels.
  • Try mindfulness – Using mindfulness techniques can allow you to become more aware of how you are feeling in the present moment and enable you to learn how to not become overwhelmed by what is going on.

Where can I receive support?

Mind – offers Mental Health support and information

Samaritans – offers support 24/7, call the helpline on 116 123.

HeadspaceApp – An app that teaches meditation and mindful skills, available on the Google Play and the Apple Store

How can we help?

Learner Welfare Drop-Ins

The Learner Welfare Team offers a range of drop-ins including confidential 1-1s, mixed drop-ins and wellbeing walks with our therapy dogs. We will also offer specific drop-ins including Sexual Health Drop-Ins and drop-ins for our Looked After Children (LAC) learners.

Please see the current timetable below:

Day Time Type Room Time Type Room
MONDAY 8:30-9:30am Early bird Drop-in 1909 Social Space 12-1pm 1:1 Drop-in B009
8:30-9:30am Sexual Health Drop-in S006
TUESDAY 12-1pm Inclusion Drop-in S006 3-4pm Afternoon Drop-in 1909 Social Space
3:30-4:30pm Sexual Health Drop-in S006
WEDNESDAY 8:30-9:30am Early bird Drop-in The Hub 1:30-2:30pm 1:1 Drop-in H101b
THURSDAY 11-12pm 1:1 Drop-in S006 12:30-1:30pm Sexual Health Drop-in S006
3:30-4:30pm Afternoon Drop-in The Hub
FRIDAY 8:30-9am Dog walk and talk Meet at 1909 Social Space 12:30-1:30pm Sexual Health Drop-in S006
3-4pm 1:1 Drop-in H101b
Group sessions
1:1 sessions
Sexual Health

Early Bird Drop-in/Afternoon Drop-in – No appointment necessary, drop by for a chat with the Learner Welfare Team and mingle with other students.

1-1 Drop-in – Confidential 1-1 session (10-minute slots) with a member of the Learner Welfare Team. No appointment necessary.

Sexual Health Drop-in – Make an appointment on the Student Dashboard to get advice and support from our Wellbeing Mentors.

Dog Walk and Talk – Enjoy a short walk around the outskirts of our campus with our therapy dog.

Inclusion Drop-in – No appointment necessary, drop by for a chat with our Inclusion Officers.

Mental Health First Aiders

We offer a Mental Health First Aider (MHFA) service where students are able to call the Mental Health First Aid phone available Monday-Friday 08:30-16:30 if they feel they need someone to talk to. Our staff will support you with various issues such as academic pressure, bullying, wellbeing support, panic etc.

Please call 07483 956433 or 07483 956434 if needed.