Are you feeling blue?

The start of the new term this year coincides with the annual ‘Blue Monday’ which claims to be the most depressing day of the year.

This year has been challenging and the start of the Spring term isn’t what anyone hoped for. You have already overcome many challenges and that is something you should be proud of. However, it is important to remember you are not alone and there are loads of great support services at the University.

So, let’s change ‘Blue Monday’ to ‘Brew Monday’ this year and take the opportunity to virtually catch-up with friends, course mates and family with a cup of tea, coffee or whatever your preferred brew is!

It’s important, now more than ever, to check in on one another, and create safe spaces for friends.

There is an abundance of support available throughout the University, from a free counselling service to peer-support groups and online resources.

• In true Brew Monday fashion – sign up to Just Coffee to be randomly matched with another student to have a virtual coffee break and a chat.
• Join the Wellbeing Café which runs weekly beginning 18 January to meet with other students online for mental health support, games and creative pursuits.
• If you feel that you need some guidance to be more mindful in your everyday life, join an online Mindfulness session every Wednesday afternoon.
• Look at Wellbeing Ideas for Uncertain Times for ideas such as wellbeing book recommendations or a chill-out playlist.
• If you’re feeling overwhelmed, a stress management session may be of use to you: In this online workshop delivered by Coral Warner, a qualified counsellor, you will have the opportunity to learn how to identify stress triggers and understand how to manage stress levels effectively.
• Check out the Student support events calendar to see other workshops, events and support groups that are available.

Please follow @UniKentSSW on Instagram, Twitter or Facebook for news on other events and peer support groups taking place throughout the year.

Other resources that are available to you

Togetherall: University of Kent students wherever they are located can access free, 24/7 online support for issues around mental health and wellbeing.

Student Minds: a UK student mental health charity.

More self-help resources.

While the obstacles remain different to previous years, the new term can offer a fresh start, take the opportunity of Brew Monday and know that you are not alone.