Managing anxiety at university

University can bring with it all sorts of emotions – you may have moved away from home for the first time, and you’ve most likely met lots of new people and will have lots of new experiences in a short space of time.

Meeting new people and making friends

It’s normal to worry about making new friends when studying at university, but it’s good to know that everyone is in the same boat as you.

Remember– there’s usually a society for anything you can think of, ranging from baking society to Taylor Swift society!

Whatever you’re into, you’re bound to find like-minded people if you join a society for something you’re interested in – your Students Union website will have a full list of what’s on offer.

Dealing with homesickness

Moving away from home and starting university is a big change, so it’s natural to feel homesick. Remember that the majority of people at your university have also moved away from home, so don’t be afraid to talk about it – it’s good to know you’re not alone in how you’re feeling.

Living away from home can take a bit of getting used to – you might have a new routine of doing your own food shop, cooking and laundry.

It can be useful to plan out your week to get you into a routine of when you’ll do these things. You could ask your flatmates to come with you to do the weekly food shop, so you can do a big shop together to avoid everyone coming back with the same things!

Don’t worry if you think other people have settled in quicker than you – we’re all different, so go at your own pace, and reach out to friends or family if you’re anxiety at university or homesickness is particularly making you struggle.

Worries about your studies

University work is a step up from college or A Levels, so don’t be hard on yourself if you find things difficult. As with most things at university, most people will be in the same boat as you, so don’t think that you’re the only one finding things hard.

As mentioned above, you might find it helpful to plan out your week to include when you’ll do your seminar readings, coursework or exam prep. You could also ask some of the people on your course if they want to work together in the common room or library – another great way of making new friends.

If you’re really struggling with some of your work, reach out to your lecturers or seminar leaders in person after class or over email – they’re there to help, and a quick 10 minutes going over something could make all the difference.

If you’re struggling managing anxiety at university

If you’re finding things hard for whatever reason, talk to someone, whether this be a friend, family member, or anyone you feel comfortable talking to. A problem shared can be a problem halved.

Your university will have free wellbeing support – this information should be available on their website.