Help and support
If you are finding things difficult, it is important to know that you do not have to struggle alone. We can help you find support.
Safety and security
Our Campus Safety team support everyone who lives, studies or works at the University, with a 24-hour presence coordinated through the Campus Safety Hub on Campus West. The team are your first response for any security or safety issues - all members of the team are trained in first aid and mental health first aid.
Student wellbeing
Based in academic departments, Student Wellbeing Officers offer advice, guidance and support if you're experiencing personal or academic issues that are affecting your ability to engage with student life. They help you to navigate University services as well as other sources of support.
Open Door
Open Door is a team of Mental Health Practitioners and Student Wellbeing Officers at the University providing support to registered students experiencing psychological or mental health difficulties.
Open Door is not an emergency service; if your situation requires an immediate response, please visit our in crisis now page.
24/7 support
Download the TalkCampus app to talk with other students from around the world about the ups and downs of student life or if you’re struggling and worried about your mental health.
University support services
Each college is staffed by a trained pastoral team who can provide confidential support. Your College Manager, Deputy College Manager, College Life Coordinators and College Life Advisors are all available to meet with you to help resolve a variety of issues or signpost you to other services, whether you’re on or off campus.
There are lots of other people also ready to listen:
- Academic supervisors
- Faith communities
- Sexual Violence Liaison Officer (SVLO)
- Student Support and Advice (Student Hub)
Trusted Contact
You must give us details of an emergency contact when you enrol but we also recommend you nominate a Trusted Contact for the University to contact if we have concerns about your welfare.
External sources of support
Your doctor
Your doctor can diagnose your mental health needs and offer guidance and medical treatment. Mental illnesses often have physical causes and symptoms. Your doctor may prescribe medication but they can also help you access talking therapies and psychological treatment.
Make sure you are registered with a doctor - see our information on healthcare to find out how.
Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT)
York & Selby IAPT offer evidence-based psychological treatments for stress, anxiety difficulties and depression. IAPT is not a crisis or urgent response service.
They offer appointments on campus and you do not need a referral from a GP, though you must be registered with a GP in York or Selby. Telephone +44 (0)1904 556840.
IAPT also have an online service, SilverCloud Online CBT (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy). If you would like to access this free service, which can be prescribed instead of or before any other treatment options, please contact IAPT on 01904 294841 or email iaptyorkselby.lypft@nhs.net
Samaritans
Samaritans are available for anyone who is going through a difficult time. Whatever you’re facing, they’re here to listen, and if you’ve lots on your mind, they will help you find your own way through it.
SHOUT
Shout is a 24/7 free text service for support in a crisis. Text 85258 (it's free on all major mobile networks).
Student Minds
​Student Minds is the UK’s student mental health charity, providing peer support programmes and resources. Made up of students, they run campaigns designed to raise awareness of mental health issues and signpost students to the appropriate resources. Get involved with the York branch on Facebook and Instagram at @uoystudentminds.
Students Against Depression
Students Against Depression is a service run by students offering advice, information, guidance and resources to those affected by low mood, depression and suicidal thinking.
HOPELINE247
HOPELINE247 is a confidential support and advice service for people under 35 who are experiencing thoughts of suicide or anyone concerned that a young person could be thinking about suicide. Call 0800 068 4141.
The Mix
The Mix provides essential support for under 25’s. Call 0808 808 4994 or use the chat service.
CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably)
The Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) is especially aimed at males who may be experiencing isolation and low mood. Contact them between 5pm and midnight on 0800 58 58 58 or use the chat service.
The Haven @ 30 Clarence Street (out of hours service)
The Haven @30 Clarence Street provides a warm and welcoming space to access support and relieve emotional distress. It's open every night between 6pm and 11pm. No appointment is needed, just turn up or phone 07483 141 310.
Mental Health and Wellbeing in York
The Mental Health and Wellbeing in York (PDF 
, 21,218kb) directory provides a comprehensive list of external resources for support, advice and information on mental wellbeing available in York.