Mental health and wellbeing

I’m having difficulties with my mental health

If you’re struggling with your mental health, you don’t have to cope alone. Support is available.

• Talk to a trusted friend, family member or member of staff.
• If you’re unsure who to speak to, contact one of our Personal Development Advisors (PDAs).
• If you’re experiencing a mental health emergency or your safety is at immediate risk, call 999 (or 112 from a mobile).
• For urgent mental health support, contact your GP or NHS 24 on 111, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• For information and advice on broader aspects of wellbeing, visit our Wellbeing webpages.

Remember, reaching out for support is a positive first step. Whether you need advice, someone to talk to, or help accessing specialist services, support is available.

Support at UHI Inverness

There are a range of support services available to students at UHI Inverness:

• Personal Development Advisors (PDAs) – If you’re studying an FE course (SCQF levels 1–6), you can speak to your PDA about concerns affecting your studies or personal wellbeing.
• Wellbeing Support service – Provides confidential support from a team of professional counsellors and is available to all students. The team can also connect you with external organisations and specialist services where appropriate. You can contact the team at wellbeing.ic@uhi.ac.uk.
• Highlands and Islands Students’ Association (HISA) – Provides independent advice and support to students.
• The Sanctuary pastoral service – Offers impartial support and guidance to all students and staff, regardless of their faith or philosophy of life.

External support

• Spectrum Life – Provides wellbeing information and access to counselling 24/7. You can access the service online or through the Spectrum Life mobile app, or call 0800 031 8227.
• Samaritans – Call 116 123 for free, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you’re in immediate danger, call 999.
• James Support Group – Provides a 24/7 helpline on 07563 572471.
• Mikeysline – Text 07786 207755 for support.
• Breathing Space – Call 0800 83 85 87. Available from 6pm Friday to 6am Monday, and 6pm to 2am on weekdays.
• Shout – Provides free, confidential support 24/7. Text SHOUT to 85258.
• The Mix – Provides support for people under 25, including advice and information on mental health, money, housing, identity, relationships and wellbeing.
• NHS Mind to Mind – Provides tips and strategies for managing your mental wellbeing, based on real people’s experiences of dealing with common emotional problems.

Please note: UHI Inverness is not responsible for the content of external websites and may not be aware when external content is changed or removed.