There is so much support on offer to help you through the next few weeks, especially if you are busy with exams, assessments and final deadlines. Find out more about free events across campus, mental health and wellbeing support and get some top tips from students who have successfully navigated their busy workloads.
Top 5 free ways to take a break
1. Free wellbeing activities over at the SU
Get down to the Students’ Union, where there’s a range of free activities to help you take a break, be social, or get study support. From mindful colouring, learning study techniques to getting creative with origami, there is something for everyone.
2. Live in halls? Take a pit stop or get a free breakfast
Exam pit stops take place across halls where you can have a chat with your ResLife team and pick up some free treats and stationary. There are also free breakfasts on offer and relaxing activities including yoga. Check out what’s on in your halls.
3. Grab a free breakfast, soup, snack or cuppa
We’re offering lots of free breakfasts, snacks, soup and drinks to keep you going throughout the exam and assessment period. From snacks and hot drinks in your Student Support Hub to Wednesday breakfasts and a new soup lunch offer over at the Alan Gilbert Learning Commons; there’s lots on offer over the coming weeks.
4. Get cosy on campus
If you’re studying on campus then head down to your nearest Cosy Campus Space for a change of scenery, comfy seating and access to free hot water and microwaves to make a cuppa or to fix yourself a snack.
5. Free gym and fitness classes
Students can enjoy free gym and fitness classes at the Armitage Centre and Wellbeing Studios, both in-person and on Zoom. A great way to stay active, reduce stress, and recharge your energy between study sessions or after busy weeks.
| Take a look at our What’s on in January guide for lots of different activities taking place across the city, to rest, relax and recharge your batteries. |
Support + advice
Library support
The Library is here to support you with exam, assessments and deadlines over the coming weeks and into the semester. There are a range of resources and services available to help you succeed, including drop-in’s and structured revision sessions.
Student Support Hubs
Student Support Hubs are your first point of contact for everyday questions, help and guidance – there are nine located across campus. The Hubs also run a range of activities to help you relax and take a break from your studies.
Wellbeing + mental health
Mental Health Support Team
Our Mental Health Support Team offers confidential counselling and one-to-one support for students experiencing mental health challenges. They can help you manage stress, anxiety, low mood or other concerns and connect you with the right services to get the support you need.
Workshops
The Mental Health Support Team also run a variety of workshops including mindfulness meditation, managing anxiety and challenging unhelpful thinking. Workshops are available both in-person and online, with some pre-recorded sessions for flexible access.
Spectrum.Life
Spectrum.Life offer anonymous support via phone or app from trained counsellors and advisors, ready to listen whenever you need – 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Qwell
As a Manchester student, you have access to free online counselling anytime from Qwell, as well as chat and wellbeing tools.
Headspace
Sign up to Headspace using your university email address and you’ll receive free access to mindfulness and meditation tools.
Six Ways to Wellbeing
Our Wellbeing team spotlight simple steps you can take to feel good and live well. You can book a one-to-one appointment with a Wellbeing Advisor for support with your wellbeing. Appointments offer a confidential space to talk about anything affecting your wellbeing, such as stress, anxiety, low mood, or personal circumstances. Fill out the form to book an appointment.
Students’ Union Advice Service
The Advice Service offers free, confidential support and guidance for students on wellbeing and academic issues, and can connect you with other services.
| Find out more: A wide range of student support resources are available to support your wellbeing, self-care, and resilience. |
Tips from our students who have been there and done it!
- Gabriele’s top tips on beating the January blues and stay motivated.
- Hannah shares advice on not just surviving but thriving during a busy study time.
- Daisy has some great advice on dealing with burnout.
| Find out more: Read our student guide to exams for more advice and guidance on exams, study tips and staying well, from those in the know. |