Festive Break Support

Emily McIlhatton

Advicefeaturednewssupportwinter break

We understand that this time of year can be tough for students and feelings of loneliness, isolation, and homesickness can worsen. We hope that this article can give you some hints and tips to manage your wellbeing during this time.

If you can't meet up with people in person, make plans to video chat, call or text instead.
If you're worried that you might run out of things to talk about, make a plan to watch a TV show or movie together.
If traditional celebrations don't work for you, there's nothing wrong with creating your own traditions. Spend time with friends, your chosen family, or even just yourself.
If you're feeling low or anxious about anything, it may help to talk about this with someone you trust.
If you are feeling lonely, think about things you can do to feel close to others. Putting extra pictures up of people you care about might be a nice reminder of the people in your life, or listen to a chatty radio station or podcast if your home feels too quiet.
Setting boundaries, stepping away, or finding joy elsewhere are all valid paths. You are allowed to prioritise your wellbeing.
You don't have to be in crisis to contact services like Samaritans if it helps to have someone to talk to for a little while.

Emergency Support

If it is an emergency situation, the following support is available:

If you require emergency help from the police, ambulance service or fire brigade, call 999 free from any phone.
Relay UK is available to support anyone who is d/Deaf, hard of hearing, or who has a speech impairment or disorder to contact 999
Campus Security can be contacted in an emergency on 0141 548 2222 if you are on campus or need help for someone on campus. If you need to contact Security for a non-life threatening matter, including homelessness, call 0141 548 3333.
NHS 24 can be contacted by calling 111 free from any phone for information and advice on health matters.

Support Services

Samaritans

Samaritans offer support 24/7 by phone, email, and instant messaging to anyone who needs to talk about anything on their mind, no matter how serious.

Call free on 116 123

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Student Minds

Student Minds, the UK's student mental health charity, is here to support you throught he winter break and holdats. Whether you are stressed about going back home, worried about staying on campus over the holidays, you don't have to strugle on your own.

Explore their dedicated resources, tips and student stories to find the help you need:

Rape Crisis Scotland

If you have experienced sexual violence at any point in your life or know someone who has, and you would like to talk to someone, Rape Crisis Scotland can offer you confidential specialist support. Their national helpline is open 5pm – midnight every day.

Call free on 08088 010 302 or text 07537 410 027.

SwitchBoard

Switchboard is the national LGBTQIA+ support line. For anyone, anywhere in the UK, at any point in their journey. to discuss anything related to sexuality and gender identity. Whether it's sexual health, relationships or just the way you're feeling.

0800 0119 100