University Mental Health Day

Contensis UMHD 2025

University Mental Health Day (UMHD) brings together the university community to make mental health a university-wide priority and create ongoing year-round change to the future of student mental health.

This year, UMHD is on Thursday 13 March. We will be highlighting the theme TAKE NOTICE as part of our HealthyU, HealthyUs, HealthyUniversity campaign.

Take notice is one of the 5 ways to wellbeing. It is all about pausing, being present, and appreciating the moment. This involves tuning into your thoughts and feelings, your body, and the world around you. It could be as simple as writing down things that bring you joy each day, noticing small changes in your surroundings, or reflecting on what helps you feel calm and relaxed. By taking notice, you can shift your perspective, improve your approach to challenges, increase mindfulness, and reduce stress.

Our UMHD campaign will run from Monday 10th March to Friday 14th March 2025. Throughout the week, there will be opportunities for students and staff to engage in events and activities that aim to raise awareness of mental health, highlight what support is available and help students to manage their wellbeing

Join us as we inspire conversations, take action and create change. Together we can get the nation talking about student mental health.

You can find information about mental wellbeing including tips and support on the HealthyU mental health page. Visit NHS, to learn more about mindfulness and mental health.

University Mental Health Day - get involved...

Grateful snaps competition

1st - 31st March 2025

Share a photo of something you're grateful for and be in with a chance of winning a self-care hamper!

Studies have shown that spending 5 minutes each day to write down things you are grateful for can help you take notice of the positives in your life, increasing mindfulness and reducing stress.

How to take part

1. Upload your picture with a title and short description using the link below.

2. Send your name and the title of your padlet to br-healthyu@nottingham.ac.uk by 31st March.

3. The winner will be selected randomy and contacted after 31st March.

Enter competition here

Wellbeing Fair

Tuesday 11th March (11am - 2pm)

C-Floor, Portland Building

Join us for our Wellbeing Fair, where you can learn about mental health and wellbeing support at the University of Nottingham!

There will be an opportunity to chat with local and university support services, pick up useful wellbeing resources, and loads of freebies. You can also relax at our crafting session.

Alongside the fair and crafting session, Thriving Nottingham will offer health MOTs in the Liberation Hub, C Floor, Portland Building. This is a non-judgmental health check which includes - blood pressure, height, and weight along with a brief questionnaire on diet and lifestyle, with onward referrals as needed.

Looking forward to seeing you there.

No need to book, everyone welcome!

Events happening throughout the week...

Monday 10th March

Time	Event information	Location
11.30am - 1.30pm	Self-Care Day We welcome you to join us in The Nest during University Mental Health Awareness week to learn more about mental health and the resources/support that is available for you. It is also an opportunity to meet with other students and have informal conversations. You can try out different activities such as lavender sleep kits, rock painting and gratitude postcards, free refreshments and a range of wellbeing resources will be available. We will also be running a photography exhibition to win a pamper kit, so look out for details on Instagram @uonsuttonbonington. Open to all students - no need to book, just drop in.	The Nest, The Barn, Sutton Bonington Campus
11am - 1pm	Crafts and Dogs Drop-in to see our friends from POOCHES therapy dogs! Paint a pot and plant a succulent! Paint a canvas tote! Or just join us for a cuppa, a chat and some chocolate! Open to School of Sociology and Social Policy students only - no need to sign up, just turn up!	Law and Social Sciences Building Atrium, University Park Campus
12pm - 2pm	Pause for a moment... Join us for a tea/coffee and biscuits plus try some arts and crafts activities! Materials and refreshments will be provided. Have a go at making an easter decoration! Try your hand at knitting! Stone Pinting Pick up information on wellbeing services Open to UG/PGT/PGR Psychology students only - no need to sign up, just turn up!	Room A22, Pschology Building, University Park
2pm - 4pm	Libraries Refuel Pop to the library for a free hot drink and biscuit to celebrate University Mental Health Week. Take a break in the library games zones, help with the shared puzzle or ask Library staff any questions you may have about how Libraries can support your studies. Open to all students - no need to book, just turn up!	Hallward Library, University Park
7pm - 9pm	Conversation Cafe We will be providing a space for students and faculty members of any faith to come together for a conversation and a hot drink. This will include conversations about mental health and wellbeing, as well as signposting where people can find further support if they wish to seek it. This will be a casual and informal event aiming to provide a friendly space where people feel comfortable sharing any worries or concerns they may have. Open to all students - no need to sign up, just come along.	Oasis, A floor, Portland Building, University Park

Tuesday 11th March

Time	Event information	Location
11am - 2pm	Health MOTs Join Thriving Nottingham for a free, non-judgmental health check, a chance to take steps towards living well and feeling great. The health check includes- blood pressure, height, and weight along with a brief questionnaire on diet and lifestyle, with onward referrals as needed. Open to all students - no need to book, just turn up!	Liberation Hub, C Floor, Portland Building, University Park
11am - 2pm	Wellbeing Fair Join us for Wellbeing Fair, where you can learn about mental health and wellbeing support at the University of Nottingham! Come along and have a chat with local and university support services, pick up useful wellbeing resources, and loads of freebies. There is also an opportunity to relax at our crafting session. Open to all students - no need to book, just turn up!	C Floor Corridor, Portland Building, University Park
11am - 2pm	CommuniTEA and Crafts Take some time out of your day to relax and chat with friends over a hot drink and relax with mindful crafting activities. Open to all students - no need to book, just turn up!	Student Study Area, Room 202, Derby Medical School
11.45am - 12.15pm	Taking Time for You: Practical Self-Care for Mental Wellbeing To celebrate University Mental Health Day, Specialist Services (Counselling & Mental Health) are offering a 30 minute wellbeing session at Cripps Health Centre focused around this years theme of 'Take Notice'. Taking Time for You: Practical Self-Care supports the theme of mindfulness and provides practical strategies to help encourage self-care and self-compassion. Please make your way up the stairs and take a seat in the waiting area (purple chairs) 10 minutes prior to the event. Your facilitator will come and collect you. Open to all students - Please email mh-support@nottingham.ac.uk to let us know if you plan to attend this event.	Large meeting room, Cripps Health Centre, University Park
Over Lunchtime	Faculty of Engineering activity sessions The Faculty of Engineering will be offering students the opportunity to take a break from their studies by joining us for a range of activities, including board games and crafts, in the ESLC Atrium on Tuesday 11th and Thursday 13th March. We will also be offering students from Engineering the opportunity to try out our Virtual Reality Suite on Wednesday 14th March. These Virtual Reality sessions are exclusively for Engineering students and will be advertised internally. Open to all students - no need to sign up, just turn up!	The Atrium, Engineering and Science Learning Centre (ESLC) Building, University Park
12pm - 1pm	Nature walk on University Park Join us for a nature walk on University Park with the Wilding Campuses project. We'll explore some of the best spots on campus for connecting with wildlife and we'll record what we see as we go. This will help to inform both our local biodiversity work but also national campaigns to monitor signs of Spring. Spending time outside in green spaces and connecting with nature is good for our physical and mental health. It can alleviate depression and anxiety, and help with stress and concentration. So come take some time out on our beautiful campus. Open to all students - Find out more and sign up	Meet at the Millennium Garden, University Park
12.30pm - 2.30pm for POOCHES 2.30pm - 3.30pm for crafts session	Paws and Crafts Paws and Crafts is a welcoming session designed to nurture your wellbeing through creativity and connection. Spend an afternoon enjoying some craft activities while spending time with therapy dogs in a relaxed and supportive environment. Engaging with creative activities and therapy dogs helps reduce stress, improve focus, boosts mood, and offers comfort. This session is a chance to unwind, connect with others, and take a break from the demands of daily life. Whether you're here to enjoy the art, the animals, or both, you'll leave feeling refreshed and supported. Open to Economics students only - Sign up here	Room A64, Sir Clive Granger Building, University Park
1pm - 2.30pm	Tea and Tote Bags Escape the daily grind and unleash your creativity at our Tea & Tote Bag Design event! Sip soothing teas while designing your own unique tote bag. We'll provide all the materials and inspiration you need to craft a personalized masterpiece. It's the perfect opportunity to relax, socialize, and express yourself. Join us for a fun and therapeutic experience that will leave you feeling refreshed and inspired. Open to all students - no need to sign up, just turn up!	Student Common Room, Clinical Sciences Building, City Hospital

Wednesday 12th March

Time	Event information	Location
11am - 1pm	Study With Us Online focused study session Study alongside others across the university with Libraries' weekly online study session. They will help you break up your study time into manageable chunks with regular breaks. Open to all students - Find out more	Online: MS Teams
11.30am - 12.20pm	Exploring the present with Nicola, Trainee Dance Movement Psychotherapist This session will allow you space and time to explore different creative ways of paying attention to what is going on around you and how you feel. In a busy world, it can be hard to just be and to experience the present moment. By taking a dance movement psychotherapy approach this process of paying attention starts with the body and connecting the mind with the body. This session will include aspects of music, movement, drawing and use of props. No dance experience needed just curiosity. Come and find out what your body is saying to you. Please make your way up the stairs and take a seat in the waiting area (purple chairs) 10 minutes prior to the event. Your facilitator will come and collect you. Open to all students - Please email mh-support@nottingham.ac.uk to let us know if you plan to attend this event.	Large meeting room, Cripps Health Centre, University Park
12pm - 3pm	Places of Worship Tour Chaplaincy is organising a group visit to three local places of worship of different faiths in Nottingham. At each place we will be exploring the venue and then having a religious leader (eg vicar) talk about what kind of worship goes on there and how mental health, wellbeing and mindfulness ties into their faith. As well as providing practical information on wellbeing, this event also encourages people to come together and support each other. Open to all students - sign up here	Beeston Muslim Centre, St Mary's in the Lace Market and Nottingham Buddhist Centre
12pm - 5pm	CLAS Crafternoon As part of the university’s mental health recognition week, CLAS invites you to our Crafternoon. Take a break from your busy schedule to relax and focus your mind elsewhere… Paint your own tealight jar, make your own beads, colour, puzzle and craft the afternoon away with a cuppa and biccie. Open to CLAS students only - no need to sign up, just turn up!	CLAS Common Room B10, Trent Building, University Park
12.15pm - 1.15pm	International Student Mental Health Panel We are bringing together students from the Faculty of Science to share their experiences of being international students, navigating culture shock, making connections and friends, and maintaining mental wellbeing during their studies at university. Six international students will be speaking about their personal journeys and offering practical tips on how to prioritise your wellbeing during your time at university. Whether you're looking for advice on coping with challenges or seeking ways to enhance your overall student experience, this panel will provide valuable insights and strategies to help you thrive. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and feel more empowered in your journey as an international student! Open to all students - no need to sign up, just turn up!	Room A17, Pope Building, University Park
12.30pm - 1pm	30 Minute Mindfulness To celebrate University Mental Health Day, Specialist Services (Counselling & Mental Health) are offering brief Mindfulness sessions focused around this years theme of 'Take Notice'. UMHD Mindfulness practice: This is 30 minute guided mindfulness practice, paying purposeful attention in a kind and non-judgemental way to our body, our mind and our feelings. Open to all students - register here	Online - MS Teams
1pm - 3pm	Wellbeing through making: A Maker Club Special A relaxed wellbeing event at our Maker Club. Come along to explore some hands on maker activities including willow weaving, laser cutting and 3D printing. All whilst having discussions about things we do to make ourselves feel positive. Open to all students - sign up here	Room C10, Advanced Manufacturing Building, Jubilee Campus
1pm - 3pm	Libraries Refuel Pop to the library for a free hot drink and biscuit to celebrate University Mental Health Week. Take a break in the library games zones, help with the shared puzzle or ask Library staff any questions you may have about how Libraries can support your studies. Open to all students - no need to book, just turn up!	James Cameron-Gifford Library, Sutton Bonington
1.30pm - 3.30pm	Mindful Making: Crafting for Calm Join us for Mindful Making: Crafting for Calm, an afternoon dedicated to creative play and sensory relaxation through arts and crafts. This community event is open to all Faculty of Science students, providing a space to unwind, connect, and learn about the positive impact of mindful activities on mental health. In collaboration with the School of Physics, we aim to create an inclusive environment that encourages students to take a break, engage in hands-on creativity, and explore ways to support their mental well-being. Open to Faculty of Science students only - sign up here. Walk-ins are also welcome!	Room A15, Pope Building, University Park
1.30pm - 3.30pm	CommuniTEA and Crafts Take some time out of your day to relax and chat with friends over a hot drink and relax with mindful crafting activities. Open to all students - no need to book, just turn up!	The hub, back of Greenfield Medical School Library, Medical School
1.30pm - 4pm	Recharge Cafe Humanities will be holding a Recharge Cafe, where you can slow down, take a break and enjoy the simple things! There will be - A talk and 15-minute guided meditation session with the Buddhist and Meditation Society at 2pm Mindful crafting activities A selection of games where you can relax and connect with others ‘Take a Treat’ stand – boost your mood through homemade bakes alongside a free cafe Wellbeing and Support information – discover services and resources that can help your mental health Open to Humanities students only - no need to book, just turn up!	Room A01, Humanities Building, University Park
3pm - 3.30pm	Promoting self-care as a student – Learn how Togetherall can help you flourish at University Finding it difficult to look after your mental wellbeing? Its ok, we have you… As a student, so many factors can come in the way when trying to prioritise your mental wellbeing – we get it! It's important to create a healthy mind space to succeed both academically and socially. Togetherall can make this easy. As a student, you have free, immediate access to online support. A community of peers to share advice and guidance and a wealth of clinical resources to help take control of your emotional wellbeing. Togetherall’s community is anonymous, welcoming, and supportive, giving you a safe space to share whatever is on your mind. Registered mental health professionals ensure safety and they are at a click of a button if you need them. Togetherall is hosting a short session for you to learn more about the community and clinical resources available to you. Come along and see what Togetherall can do for you. Open to all staff and students - Register here	Online - MS Teams

Thursday 13th March

Time	Event information	Location
10am - 2pm	Refurbished bike sale Bikeworks, a not-for-profit Community Interest Company, will be hosting a refurbished bike sale on University Campus on Thursday 13th March from 10am - 2pm in the George Green quad. Cycling offers several mental health benefits - it reduces stress, releases ‘feel-good’ hormones known as endorphins and boosts your mood. The bike sale offers a chance to purchase a new low cost bike - perfect for someone who wants to take up cycling for the warmer spring and summer months. Open to all students - no need to sign up, just turn up!	George Green Quad, University Park
Over lunchtime	Faculty of Engineering activity sessions The Faculty of Engineering will be offering students the opportunity to take a break from their studies by joining us for a range of activities, including board games and crafts, in the ESLC Atrium on Tuesday 11th and Thursday 13th March. We will also be offering students from Engineering the opportunity to try out our Virtual Reality Suite on Wednesday 14th March. These Virtual Reality sessions are exclusively for Engineering students and will be advertised internally. Open to all students - no need to sign up, just turn up!	The Atrium, Engineering and Science Learning Centre (ESLC) Building, University Park
12pm - 2pm	... and Breathe: School of English University Mental Health Day Café The School of English has prepared a fun and relaxing event to give you some mental health tips while you spin our wheel to win a prize. Come and join us on Thursday, 13th March, from 12 to 2 pm in Room A90, Student Common Room, Trent Building. We will provide refreshments and tips on how to take care of your mental health. One of the Faculty of Arts Wellbeing team will be there to greet and meet you. You will also have the opportunity to participate in our prize draw just for attending! Don’t miss this opportunity. Open to School of English students only - no need to sign up, just turn up.	Room A90 - Student Common Room, Trent Building, University Park
12.30pm - 1pm	30 Minute Mindfulness To celebrate University Mental Health Day, Specialist Services (Counselling & Mental Health) are offering brief Mindfulness sessions focused around this years theme of 'Take Notice'. UMHD Mindfulness practice: This is 30 minute guided mindfulness practice, paying purposeful attention in a kind and non-judgemental way to our body, our mind and our feelings. Open to all students - register here	Online - MS Teams
2pm - 4pm	Super Power workshop for students This workshop explores the benefits of cultivating self-compassion on positive mental health and personal achievement. The session will include: Reduced low mood, anxiety, and overthinking. Better management of tough emotions. Increased feelings of contentedness, wisdom, and a sense of connection with others. Learn why it works, how it works and feel the benefits! Open to all students - Register here	Room B07, The Hemsley, University Park
4pm - 5pm	Studying effectively: Preparing for exams webinar This short session will help you to feel more confident with exams. It will help you to strengthen your revision planning, consider different ways to boost your memory, and provide you with strategies for ensuring you answer the question when exam time comes. Open to all students - Find out more	Online: MS Teams
11am - 11.40am 11.50am - 12.30pm	Zen Zone Escape the academic hustle and find your inner peace at Zen Zone! Join us for a relaxing meditation session, run by our in-house meditation teacher, Pasannacitta. Unwind with a guided mindfulness practice and incorporate calm into your busy schedule. No experience necessary – just come ready to de-stress and recharge. Open to all students and staff in Medicine, Health Sciences and Life Sciences - Places will be allocated on a first come, first served basis.	Medical School E1
2pm - 4pm	Libraries Refuel Pop to the library for a free hot drink and biscuit to celebrate University Mental Health Week. Take a break in the library games zones, help with the shared puzzle or ask Library staff any questions you may have about how Libraries can support your studies. Open to all students - no need to book, just turn up!	George Green Library, University Park
6pm - 7.30pm	Let’s Talk Mental Health in Sport On University Mental Health Day, we hope that this will be a good opportunity to talk openly about mental health in sport, through sharing individual experiences and demonstrating that #TheresNoStrengthInSilence. We will have a panel of speakers who will be talking about their own lived experiences of mental health within and outside of University, focusing on the differences and similarities between male and female mental health issues, how sport is positive for mental health, the importance of activism within mental health at university, and how to support each other when times are tough. There will be an opportunity to ask questions and chat to the speakers and facilitators during and after the event, as well as open discussion on the topics listed above. Refreshments will also be available! Open to all students - Register here	David Ross Sports Village, Conference Room

Friday 14th March

Time	Event Information	Location
11.30am - 1pm	School of Chemistry Community Event and Plant Pot decorating Join us at the Community and Plant Pot Decorating Event for a morning/afternoon of decorating plant pots, where you can express your personal style and create your own unique masterpieces. All supplies, including pots, paints, brushes, soil and plant bulbs will be provided—just bring your imagination! There will also be warm drinks and biscuits provided along with fun games! Open to School of Chemistry Students only - no need to sign up, just drop in!	Chemistry Foyer, School of Chemistry, University Park
12pm - 2pm	Libraries Refuel Pop to the library for a free hot drink and biscuit to celebrate University Mental Health Week. Take a break in the library games zones, help with the shared puzzle or ask Library staff any questions you may have about how Libraries can support your studies. Open to all students - no need to book, just turn up!	Business Library, Business School South, Jubilee Campus
12pm - 4pm	Crafternoon Come and join us for a relaxed afternoon of crafting, chatting and refreshments. Do one of the activities on offer or bring your own project to work on, the choice is yours! Questions? Email sian.street@nottingham.ac.uk Open to all students - no need to sign up, drop in and join us any time!	Oasis, A Floor, Portland Building, University Park
1pm - 3pm	Make Your Own Fidget Ring - UoNSU x Chaplaincy Come and make your own fidget ring! Chaplaincy staff will be available to talk to students. There will also be refreshments and calming music. Open to all students - sign up here	Oasis, A-Floor, Portland Building, University Park
2pm	Mature and International Students Museum Visit and Lakeside Walk Take a break from your studies, get some fresh air, and explore a hidden gem on campus—the University of Nottingham Museum! For this event, we will meet at the museum at 2 pm to experience local and world history. Afterward, we’ll take a relaxing walk around the University’s beautiful Highfields Park Lake. We’ll then head directly to the School of English Student Common Room (A90), Trent Building for a warming hot drink, biscuits, games and a friendly chat with fellow international and mature students. Sign up now to get outdoors, take a break from your screens, and make new friends! Open to all sudents - sign up here	Meet at the University of Nottingham Museum, University Park

Wednesday 19th March

Time	Event information	Location
1pm - 3pm	Pause for Paws: Therapy Dogs and Crafting Session Book your time to come and meet therapy dogs Ruby and Bertie and 'paws' for some canine cuddles! Add to your mental health and wellbeing journey, by joining us any time between 1-3pm to take part in some relaxing crafts such as rock painting, friendship bracelet making or beading. You can always return to your craft after your time with the dogs too! Tea/coffee will also be available. The crafting session is a drop-in, please join for as long as you like between 1-3pm. Therapy Dogs are available in 15 minute slots, and must be booked in advance using the link which will be available on GeogSoc's instagram @uongeogsoc Open to Geography Students only	Room A64, Sir Clive Granger Building, University Park

For more information about any of these events, email the HealthyU team

Student Life

The University has a range of services to support your welfare, health and wellbeing throughout your studies. You can seek advice about any issue affecting your study and University experience. We will be here to listen, help and can support you in accessing other specialist services you might need.

Disability Support Services

It's not too late to get support. If you haven't done so already, please tell Disability Support Services about your disability, mental health difficulty, long-term medical condition, autistic spectrum condition, or a specific learning difference such as dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia or ADHD.

Register with a GP

It’s important to register with a GP (sometimes called family doctor) as soon as possible when you arrive at university.

Cripps Health Centre is conveniently situated on University Park and specialises in looking after students and staff as well as their families.

If you do not live in the catchment area for Cripps (check here), you can visit the NHS Choices site to find your local health centre.

If you live in the Sutton Bonington area you may be able to register at the Orchard Practice in Kegworth.

Living in halls or third-party accommodation? See what ResX events are taking place.

Would you like to improve your academic and/or communication skills? Click here for information about CELE.

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University Mental Health Day - get involved...

Grateful snaps competition

Wellbeing Fair

Events happening throughout the week...

Monday 10th March

11.30am - 1.30pm

Self-Care Day

The Nest, The Barn, Sutton Bonington Campus

11am - 1pm

Crafts and Dogs

Law and Social Sciences Building Atrium, University Park Campus

12pm - 2pm

Pause for a moment...

Room A22, Pschology Building, University Park

2pm - 4pm

Libraries Refuel

Hallward Library, University Park

7pm - 9pm

Conversation Cafe

Oasis, A floor, Portland Building, University Park

Tuesday 11th March

11am - 2pm

Health MOTs

Liberation Hub, C Floor, Portland Building, University Park

11am - 2pm

Wellbeing Fair

C Floor Corridor, Portland Building, University Park

11am - 2pm

CommuniTEA and Crafts

Student Study Area, Room 202, Derby Medical School

11.45am - 12.15pm

Taking Time for You: Practical Self-Care for Mental Wellbeing

Large meeting room, Cripps Health Centre, University Park

Over Lunchtime

Faculty of Engineering activity sessions

The Atrium, Engineering and Science Learning Centre (ESLC) Building, University Park

12pm - 1pm

Nature walk on University Park

Meet at the Millennium Garden, University Park

12.30pm - 2.30pm for POOCHES

2.30pm - 3.30pm for crafts session

Paws and Crafts

Room A64, Sir Clive Granger Building, University Park

1pm - 2.30pm

Tea and Tote Bags

Student Common Room, Clinical Sciences Building, City Hospital

Wednesday 12th March

11am - 1pm

Study With Us Online focused study session

Online: MS Teams

11.30am - 12.20pm

Exploring the present with Nicola, Trainee Dance Movement Psychotherapist

Large meeting room, Cripps Health Centre, University Park

12pm - 3pm

Places of Worship Tour

Beeston Muslim Centre, St Mary's in the Lace Market and Nottingham Buddhist Centre

12pm - 5pm

CLAS Crafternoon

CLAS Common Room B10, Trent Building, University Park

12.15pm - 1.15pm

International Student Mental Health Panel

Room A17, Pope Building, University Park

12.30pm - 1pm

30 Minute Mindfulness

Online - MS Teams

1pm - 3pm

Wellbeing through making: A Maker Club Special

Room C10, Advanced Manufacturing Building, Jubilee Campus

1pm - 3pm

Libraries Refuel

James Cameron-Gifford Library, Sutton Bonington

1.30pm - 3.30pm

Mindful Making: Crafting for Calm

Room A15, Pope Building, University Park

1.30pm - 3.30pm

CommuniTEA and Crafts

The hub, back of Greenfield Medical School Library, Medical School

1.30pm - 4pm

Recharge Cafe