Real talk; loneliness.

It’s Mental Health Awareness Week, and we know it can seem like just another one of those weeks, because mental health is important every day of the year. However, we thought it might be a good time to normalise loneliness, remind you that you’re never alone and that there is support available. For those of you that might not need support, there’s still plenty going on at your SU that you can get involved in!

Coming up for Mental Health Awareness Week

Mindful Messages

We'll be hiding messages of positivity and encouragement around campus, all written and signed by your SU staff. Keep an eye out and share if you find one! #YourSUIsHereForYou

Loneliness Myth Busting: Join us on our Instagram throughout the day, where we'll be discussing some of the myths around loneliness and its effects on people.
Tuesday 10th May, Instagram

Give it a go: De-stress and Rebalance Workshop
Wednesday 11 May | 6pm-7:30pm | Zoom

Join the GIAG team as you learn how to de-stress, relax and recharge during exam season!

Don’t forget to check out the what’s on page for more upcoming events.

Support

We’ve all felt lonely from time to time, it’s definitely not something to feel ashamed about because it’s totally normal. If you think that it might be impacting you strongly, there is help available.

There doesn’t always need to be a reason why you feel lonely, but there are people that can listen to you about how you’re feeling.

• If you just need to talk to someone who knows what it’s like to be a student you can email, instant message, or call Nightline. Nightline is a free, confidential, non-advisory, student-led listening service that is similar to the Samaritans.
• If you feel like you might need more ongoing support for your wellbeing, contact the university Student Wellbeing Service.
• The SU Student Advice Centre have lots of self-help wellbeing resources on their website, covering issues such as loneliness, low mood and depression, and stress and anxiety. You can also book an appointment with the Student Advice Centre by getting in touch, and they will be able to direct you to services relevant to your situation.
• Hallam Support Triangle: If you're concerned about your wellbeing or mental health and it's starting to affect your studies, you can visit your Student Support Officer who can help you access specialist services when you need them you to extra support.
• Togetherall is a safe, online community where people support each other anonymously to improve mental health and wellbeing. Online resources include community forums, courses, and mindfulness exercises.
   

Other ways to get involved

Another way you can get talking is by meeting people and making new friends. Sheffield Hallam Students’ Union has loads of great stuff going on and there is something to suit everyone.

• Want to get more involved in the local community? Check out the volunteering page on our website, where you could find a one-off project to get involved in, a local charity shop to lend your retail skills to, or even gain some practical experience by mentoring with young people.
• Want to share your hobbies with others just as passionate as you? Join a society. There is something for everyone, from political societies to table-top gaming, academic societies, and even a Disney society! Can’t find one you want to join? Start one!
• Want to try something new you’ve never done before? Check out the Give It a Go page on the website. This is a great way to make new friends with an activity to focus on to take some of the pressure off. You can try your hand at bath-bomb making, gardening, Zumba, or even ice skating.
• Passionate about standing up for student rights and minoritised groups? Email your Student Rights Team to find out what projects we are currently working on (StudentRights@shu.ac.uk).
• Want a chance to create real change? Consider being a course rep for your peers.
• Want to get more involved in sport at university? Join a sport, be a part of Team Hallam.

The list of ways you can get involved with us is endless so feel free to come in to The HUBS, have a look on the SHSU website, or follow our socials (@HallamUnion1 on Instagram) to stay up to date with what we have going on!

#YourSUIsHereForYou

Written by Jasmine Shoker