Mental Health and Wellbeing

Looking after your mental health and wellbeing is an important part of student life. You may experience challenges with your mental health, or face issues such as problems at home, health concerns, or worries about housing or finances that can impact your wellbeing or studies.

You can talk to us in confidence about anything that is affecting you.

Student Engagement and Wellbeing Team

Our Student Engagement and Wellbeing Officers are here to support you throughout your time with us.

Whether you're facing personal challenges, feeling overwhelmed, or simply need someone to talk to, we’re here to listen and help you find the right support.

We offer:

• A safe, confidential space to talk. (Face-to-face, online or by phone)
• Support with your mental health and emotional wellbeing
• Practical advice and guidance
• Help accessing other services and resources

Getting Support

You don’t need to be in crisis to get in touch.

• Book an appointment with a member of the team
• Use our self-referral form
• Email us at studentwellbeing.nwh@uhi.ac.uk 

Health Support

Registering with a Doctor (GP)

If you have moved away from home to study, it’s important to register with a local doctor.

This will make it easier to access medical care if you become unwell.  (Please note that if you are absent from college you may need a medical certificate.)

You can also access health advice through NHS 24:

• Visit NHS24.scot or download the NHS 24 Online NHS 24 Online app
• Call 111 for advice outside surgery hours or for general health queries

Healthcare Costs and Support

Students are not automatically entitled to free dental or optician treatment. However, depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible for support.

To apply, complete an HC1 form, available from GP surgeries, dental practices, pharmacies, post offices, and benefits offices.

For more information, contact the Health Cost advice line on 0845 850 1166.

Health Alerts and Vaccinations

Students entering university for the first time may be eligible for a meningitis vaccination. We encourage you to find out more and make sure you are protected.

Up-to-date health information and safety alerts in Scotland are available through NHS inform and Public Health Scotland, including important public health guidance and wellbeing advice.

Wellbeing Resources

Spectrum.Life

As a UHI student you can access a 24/7 out of hours mental health support line through Spectrum.Life by calling 0800 031 8227 or Text ‘Hi’ to WhatsApp or SMS: 07418 360780. All calls are answered by clinically trained counsellors or psychotherapists.

Log into the Spectrum.Life Portal using code uhiwell for resources to support your health and wellbeing – From Fitness and Nutrition to wellbeing courses and meditations.

Brightspace

All UHI North, West and Hebrides students have access to Brightspace, an online platform where you can find guidance, support, and information on health, wellbeing, and student life. It’s also used for updates and communication throughout your studies.

Digital Den

Explore our Digital Den - a collection of books, podcasts, TV shows and films covering topics such as mental health, sexuality, eating disorders and more.