Transitions and change
Homesickness, loneliness, change, culture shock
International Student Advice (ISA)
ISA provides specialist services and guidance if you're an international student studying at University of Plymouth.
Find out about immigration services, culture shock, money advice, council tax, general academic queries, health, living in the UK and personal issues.
Learn more about ISAInternational students in Plymouth
International students from University of Plymouth talk about their experiences in Plymouth.Watch the Go Study Abroad video
TEDx talk: A History of Homesickness
Is home where the heart is? Or where you hang your hat at night? A historian of the emotions, Susan Matt will help explore and explain the loneliness of leaving "home", whether it's to relocate to a country halfway around the world or to university.Watch Susan Matt's TEDx talk
Freshers: Student Survival
Surviving freshers… tips for students coming to PlymouthA personal account and top tips from Shauna Crewes who has studied in Plymouth
An introvert’s guide to surviving freshers’ week
Freshers’ Week isn’t actually as daunting as it sounds – even for introverts. While certain events and parties are held with extroverts in mind, there are actually a number of fantastic opportunities designed for introverts tooAn introvert’s guide to surviving freshers’ week’
What to expect when starting university
Starting university can be a wonderful and exciting experience, but it can also bring its own unique challenges. It's natural to feel nervous or overwhelmed during the first few weeks at university, and it can be a while before you feel like you've foundRead the tips and advice from Student Minds on managing the start of your university experience
Mature student transition
- The Guardian - articles for mature students
- University of Plymouth - advice to mature students
What it’s like to feel lonely
It’s scary to reach out to people. But sometimes saying just hi is the best thing you can do.Watch the BuzzFeed video about loneliness
What to do if you are feeling actively suicidal when usual services may be closed:
If you are about to harm yourself or have already done so, phone 999 or immediately go to the Emergency Department at your local hospital.
There is a university mental health advisor on duty Monday–Thursday 9:00–17:00 and Friday 9:00–16:30. You can contact them by calling 01752 587676.
You can also contact campus security 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
If you have no immediate plans to harm yourself, the below services may be helpful:
- First Response (24/7 crisis phone line local to Plymouth)
- NHS 111
- Samaritans
- Togetherall
- SHOUT (crisis text service)
Additional self-help resources
We also have a range of leaflets, presentations and audio files created by staff at the University that may be helpful.
Professional support
If something is causing you concern, is upsetting or distressing you, then it may help to talk about it in a safe environment.
If you are a partnership student please find out what support your institution offers.
For students studying on the Plymouth and Truro campus, you can seek support and professional advice from: