Transitions and change
Homesickness, loneliness, change, culture shock

ISA provides specialist services and guidance if you're an international student studying at University of Plymouth.
Watch the Go Study Abroad videoInternational students from University of Plymouth talk about their experiences in Plymouth.
Watch Susan Matt's TEDx talkIs 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.
A personal account and top tips from Shauna Crewes who has studied in PlymouthSurviving freshers… tips for students coming to 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 too
Read the tips and advice from Student Minds on managing the start of your university experienceStarting 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 found
Watch the BuzzFeed video about lonelinessIt’s scary to reach out to people. But sometimes saying just hi is the best thing you can do.
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:
We also have a range of leaflets, presentations and audio files created by staff at the University that may be helpful.
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: