Wellbeing Tips

Life at University can be full of ups and downs and managing both studies and personal life can feel overwhelming at times. So, taking care of yourself and looking after your overall wellbeing can make it easier for you to handle the challenges and joys of university life smoothly. This map is created using the 5 steps to wellbeing researched and developed by the New Economics Foundation, to help you identify what you can do, and activities you can get involved with while you are on campus which can improve your physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing.

1. Recharge and Connect

Making time to connect with friends, family, classmates, or even new people on campus can really lift your mood. Social connection is a key human need that gives you support, joy, and a sense of belonging, helping you feel less alone and more grounded. Eating well also helps keep you healthy.

You can join SUBU Clubs and Societies, BU Sport activities, or check out ongoing events on SUBU What’s On.

If you are primarily based at Lansdowne campus, take a short trip to Talbot Campus using the U1 bus and join a wider range of activities.

2. Be Active

Regular physical activity helps boost mood, reduce stress, and improve overall health. Go outdoors and take a break so you can return to your work with greater focus, creativity, and resilience.

You don’t have to commit to the gym. Going for a walk between lectures, taking the stairs instead of the lift, joining a sports club, or even stretching in your room can boost your energy and clear your mind.

3. Learn

Learning new things throughout life helps build self-esteem and supports wellbeing. This includes attending lectures and course activities connected to your programme.

It can also mean reading a new book, listening to different music, cooking something new, trying new hobbies, or learning about a new culture.

4. Take Notice

It’s easy to rush through the day without pausing. Paying attention to the present moment, your thoughts, feelings, and the world around you can help you feel calmer and more in control.

Try to slow down and notice the small things around you.

5. Be Kind

Small acts of kindness, towards yourself and others, can make a big difference by creating a positive feeling for you and those around you.

You can check in on a friend, do something nice for a classmate or stranger, or volunteer when you can. A list of opportunities is available on SUBU Volunteering.

Where to get help/ Wellbeing Services

There are a range of places you can access wellbeing support - for the full range of options you can look at the link below: www.bournemouth.ac.uk/students/health-wellbeing:

Student Assistance Programme

BU students can access wellbeing advice and support, including counselling, via telephone, live chat or messaging. Call 0800 028 3766 or download the Wisdom App. More info here: Student Assistance Programme | Bournemouth University
BU Counselling and Wellbeing

Counselling and Wellbeing are operating both from Talbot Campus and remotely. They offer a range of options, including remote sessions via telephone and video.

To get in touch with them, fill in the Online enquiry form and choose 'counselling and mental health support'.
SUBU Advice

This is a free confidential and independent service by your students’ union that offer advice and support on academic, housing, personal, and money issues. Email subuadvice@bournemouth.ac.uk or give them a call 01202 965779 and they will arrange an appointment for you speak to an advisor. Find us at subu.org.uk/Advice.

Attend a drop-in session
- Monday to Friday, 11am to 12pm, Second Floor - The Student Centre, Talbot Campus
- Thursdays at BG301c, Lansdowne Campus
Faith and Reflection

This is not just for students with faith - Faith and Reflection provides a safe space on campus where you can speak to one of the members of staff about any worries or concerns you have or in need of a last-minute chat. 

The Faith & Reflection space is on the first floor of Talbot House open Monday-Friday, 8am - 8pm. Chaplains and Faith Advisers are on hand to offer a listening ear, in person or via Teams.

To get in touch with them, fill in the Online enquiry form and choose Faith, Religion and Spiritual.
www.bournemouth.ac.uk/students/health-wellbeing/faith-reflection.
Sexual assault and harassment support:
1. BU has specialist staff who can offer support and advice around sexual assault and harassment. More info here: assault and harassment | Bournemouth University
2. STARS: There is a charity called STARS (Sexual Trauma and Recovery Service) who can be a great support if you've experienced sexual assault.
You can see how they can help and how to contact them here: starsdorset.org/get-help or call them on 01202 308 840

STARS are in SUBU (Ground floor) every Thursday between 10am-4pm, and you can drop by whenever suits you. They can use the Advice offices for a 1:1 if you need a private space to talk on campus.

Other Support Available

If you are on campus and require immediate and urgent assistance call BU emergency line - 01202 962222
For any emergency services off campus, dial 999. They respond to life-threatening cases.
NHS can be contacted on 111 for urgent enquiries, but not for life-threatening emergencies.
ResLife: If you’re a student living inBU halls of residence , the ResLife Wellbeing Team are here to make sure that you feel safe, connected and confident as you adjust to university life and become a part of the BU community. You can contact the team by emailing. You can contact the team by emailing ResLifeBU-support@bournemouth.ac.uk .