Support for students experiencing depression or low mood

It's normal to go through periods of low mood and to have changes in mood. However, if you have these feelings for a long time it can harm your life. This can be diagnosed as depression, which different people experience in different ways. 

You may feel a lack of motivation, a general sense of apathy and hopelessness, or that you are struggling to get out of bed or do basic tasks. This can be especially difficult to manage at university if you don’t have an established support system.  

It is important to make an appointment with your doctor to discuss how you are feeling and treatment options. 

How the University can help

Student Services can offer a range of help including specialist support and resources for your wellbeing and mental health.   

If low mood is impacting your studies, please email your School to discuss adjustments and your options. If this is a longstanding difficulty, you may wish to declare it as a disability with the Disability Team. You will need to provide medical evidence from a doctor if you wish to declare.  

Other places to find help

• The Centre for Clinical Interventions offers resources and workbooks on managing depression.
• The NHS offers self-help leaflets on mental health topics including managing depression.
• Mind, a mental health charity in the UK, has guidance on managing depression.
• NHS Inform provides health advice for Scotland, including self-help guidance on managing depression.