Mental Health & Wellbeing
Everyone has mental health, just like everyone has physical health. It affects how we think, feel and cope with everyday life, and it can change over time.
When our mental health is good, we’re more likely to feel positive, connect with others and enjoy the things we do. When we’re struggling, we may feel stressed, overwhelmed, anxious or less like ourselves.
Looking after your mental health is important, and it’s okay to ask for support when you need it.
What is a mental health problem?
Everyone has good days and bad days – that’s a normal part of life. We all experience stress, worry, sadness and anxiety from time to time.
A mental health problem is when these feelings begin to affect your daily life, studies, relationships or wellbeing and don’t improve over time.
If you’re struggling, remember that support is available and asking for help is a positive first step.
Need Someone to Talk To?
If you’re feeling stressed, overwhelmed, anxious, lonely or struggling with something in your life, support is available. The organisations below offer free and confidential help.
YoungMinds Crisis Messenger
If you’re experiencing a mental health crisis and need urgent support, you can text YM to 85258 at any time, day or night.
- Free, confidential support 24/7
- Messages are answered by trained volunteers, supported by clinical professionals
- Free to text from most UK mobile networks
Childline (for under 19s)
Whatever is worrying you, Childline is there to listen. No problem is too big or too small.
- Call 0800 1111 for free, 24 hours a day
- Chat online with a counsellor (9am–midnight)
- Send a message online without using your real name
The Mix (for under 25s)
The Mix supports young people with anything that’s affecting their wellbeing, relationships, education, work, money, or mental health.
- Free helpline: 0808 808 4994 (4pm–11pm daily)
- Free webchat service
- Free email support
- Free counselling by phone or webchat
Samaritans
If you’re struggling to cope, feeling distressed, or just need someone to listen, Samaritans are available 24 hours a day.
- Call 116 123 for free, anytime
- Email: jo@samaritans.org
Home-Start Wigtownshire
If family life, parenting, or home circumstances are causing stress or worry, Home-Start offers friendly, confidential support tailored to your situation.
- Call 01776 706984
- Email admin@home-startwigtownshire.co.uk
LGBT Youth Scotland
LGBT Youth Scotland supports lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer young people aged 13–25 across Scotland.
Whether you’re looking for support, advice, information, or a safe community, they’re here to help.
- Support for young people aged 13–25
- Information, resources and youth work programmes
- Safe spaces to connect with others
Grief and Bereavement
Losing someone important to you can be one of life’s hardest experiences. Whether it’s a family member, friend, partner, pet or someone else you care about, it’s normal to experience a wide range of emotions.
Everyone grieves differently. There is no right or wrong way to feel, and there is no set timescale for grief. If you’re finding it difficult to cope, support is available.
Mind Infoline
Phone: 0300 123 3393
Email: info@mind.org.uk
Mind’s Infoline provides an information and signposting service for mental health matters. They are open 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday (except for bank holidays).
Mind Legal line
Phone: 0300 466 6463
Email: legal@mind.org.uk
Mind’s Legal line provides legal information and general advice on mental health related law. They are open 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday (except for bank holidays).
Student Foodbank
If you’re struggling with the cost of food, you can access our Student Foodbank free of charge. No referral is needed.
Dumfries Campus: Room 1012b in The Point
Stranraer Campus: Student Association Office
If you would like to donate, food donations can be left at The Point in Dumfries or the Student Association Office in Stranraer.