Wellbeing
University can be a great experience, but it can also be stressful at times. The most important thing is to look after your wellbeing, from the physical to mental, to sexual.
To help you find the support you need, we've split our wellbeing resources into sections, each relevant to a particular type of wellbeing. You'll find links to organisations, advice and useful resources.
It is important that you register with a local General Practitioner (GP) and dentist if you have moved to study at university. Have a GP and dentist near where you live during term time means you can access care and medication if you need it; if you don't register with a local GP and dentist they could be delays in your treatment and prescription of medication. You can use the link below to find various NHS health service near you.
Find health services in WalesFind health services in England
Being a student can be stressful; from meeting new people, to making new friends, to managing deadlines and budgets; it can all feel overwhelming, but remember you're not alone and support it there for you. There are online services you can access from anywhere, for free. As a UWTSD student, you can use the Big White Wall for free.
UWTSD Student Services
The University offers a student support service, where you can talk to counsellors to get the help you need.
Togetherall
All students at UWTSD have access to Togetherall; a mental health community and service that provides online peer and professional support, with trained counsellors free-of-charge.
MIND
Student-focused mental health advice from the professionals at Mind.
Sexual Health Clinics
Sexual Health Clinicsoffer a range of services around sexual health. From testing and treatment of Sexually Transmitted Infections to contraception and pregnancy testing, to HIV testing and PEP. Use the links below to find your closest clinic and see the services it offers.
Find clinics in WalesFind clinics in England
Stonewall & Stonewall Cymru
Stonewall Cymru offer support and advice for the LGBT community in Wales; Individuals who are Lesbian, Gay, Bi-Sexual or Trans, or anyone who doesn't completely identify as Heterosexual (Straight).
Visit Stonewall CymruVisit Stonewall
LGBT Foundation
LGBT Foundation exists to support the needs of the diverse range of people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans.
Womens Aid
Support and assistant to women who are experiencing Domestic Abuse.
Beyond The Streets
UK based charity providing support and advice to sex-workers and individuals trapped in sexual exploitation.
During your time at university, you may form a relationship with alcohol. For some people, it might be a quiet drink in, or others it might be a big night out. It's important to know your limits, be aware of the effects and identify when you might be drinking too much or too often.
What are the limits?
The NHS advises people not to drink more than 14 units a week. 1 unit of alcohol is 10ml of pure alcohol, to put that into an everyday context;
- Half a pint of low-normal strength cider, beer or lager is 1 unit (ABV 3.6%).
- Single-shot of spirits is 1 unit (25ml, ABV 40%).
- A small glass of wine is 1.5 units (125ml, ABV 12%).
Many factors will determine how alcohol affects you, such as your body weight and metabolism, be mindful and do not feel pressured to keep up with others.
How Often?
NHS guidelines say that it is best to spread out your drinking across the week and to have a few days where you do not drink at all. Drinking a lot in one go, known as binge drinking, can cause significant damage to your health, well-being and can cause a whole host of social problems.
The Short-term Risks
Some of the short-term risks of alcohol misuse include injuries requiring hospital treatment, being a victim of violence, engaging in unsafe sex, loss of personal possessions and alcohol poisoning.
The Long-term Risks
Some of the long-term risks of alcohol misuse include an increased risk of cancer, heart disease, stroke, liver disease and pancreatitis
For some students, their nightlife can revolve around drinking, and they will drink more than is recommended. The key is to drink responsibly; aim to have a good time without risking your health or safety and look out for yourself and your friends. We've put together a list of online resources where you can learn more about alcohol, its effects and how to get support.
DAN
A free and bilingual telephone drugs helpline providing a single point of contact for anyone in Wales wanting further information or help relating to drugs or alcohol.
Frank
Find out everything you need to know about drugs, their effects and the law. Talk to Frank for facts, support and advice on drugs and alcohol.
NHS
Information about alcohol misuse from the National Health Service.
We do not condone the use of drugs, but wants to ensure that students are making informed choices, and are aware of the resources to help them stay safe. Remember, the best way to avoid harm or punishment is not to take drugs at all.
There are many drugs that go by different names and do different things Talk To Frank has an extensive list of drugs, with all the information you'd need to know; their street names, what they look like, the effects they have, and what the law states.
Talk To Frank
Find out everything you need to know about drugs, their effects and the law. Talk to Frank for facts, support and advice on drugs and alcohol.
DAN
A free and bilingual telephone drugs helpline providing a single point of contact for anyone in Wales wanting further information or help relating to drugs or alcohol.
When gambling gets out of hand, it can cause financial problems, negatively affect well-being, studies and relationships. Help is out there, if you or someone you know is struggling to manage their gambling, the charities below give useful advice and support.
Gamble Aware
Advice and support for those experiencing a gambling problem.
Gambling Therapy
Gambling Therapy is a global service offering free practical advice and emotional support to anyone affected by problem gambling.
UWTSD Students' Union is a charity here to help UWTSD students make the most of their time at university through advice, representation, and opportunities and events.
UWTSD Students' Union is a brand name of Trinity Saint David Students' Union • © Trinity Saint David Students' Union. All Rights Reserved.
Registered Charity in England & Wales: 1157951
Company Limited by Guarantee: 09103924
UWTSD Students' Union is affiliated with the National Union of Students (NUS), NUS Charity, and British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS). Learn more on our affiliations webpage.
