Support for student mental health

Professionally trained staff in the University provide confidential support to students with long-standing or complex mental health problems.  

University Mental Health Coordinators are responsible for supporting you if you are experiencing significant mental health difficulties. They can help to manage complex risk factors and provide some interventions and strategies that are effective in improving mental health. An important part of the work they do is to liaise with outside services, such as the NHS.  

It is important that you keep in regular contact with your doctor, community psychiatric nurse, psychologist, or psychiatrist. These specialist practitioners are the main contacts for your ongoing care. 

If you need daily personal care or assistance to live independently, read more about the support available for independent living. 

If you don’t have a long-standing or complex mental health condition, but would like help with problems like stress and anxiety, read more about the wellbeing support available in the University. 

Specialised and confidential support 

Staff in the Student Services team specialise in: 

• cognitive behavioural therapy 
• counselling
• coaching

If you are unsure which support service is best for you, email theasc@st-andrews.ac.uk to speak with a Wellbeing Adviser.  

Please be aware that while Student Services staff will always endeavour to support you, we may not always be the most appropriate first responders in an emergency situation. If you are in a crisis, we encourage you to contact emergency services (your GP or 999) or present at Accident and Emergency in the first instance. The University Security and Response team (+44 (0)1334 46 8999) can support you in accessing emergency support. Support from Student Services is available after the crisis is over as a place to reflect, explore and possibly prevent such crises developing in the future.

Financial and academic support 

Student Services can provide advice on financial support options and academic adjustments when your mental health is affecting your studies. They can also share their support recommendations with the relevant University services and Schools, if you want them to. 

The University Disability team works with students who have declared a long-term mental health condition to ensure appropriate plans are in place to support their learning. 

Disabled Students’ Allowance 

Students who have a long-standing or complex mental health condition, and are a permanent resident in the UK, may be eligible to apply for Disabled Students' Allowance.  

Email disability@st-andrews.ac.uk to discuss different support options with a Disability Adviser.