Mental Health Week 2021

Inspired by Mental Health Awareness Week running from 10-16 May, the UCO will be shining a spotlight on the importance of mental health care for the whole of this month.

The UCO student support team has carefully curated a month-long programme of free events with an emphasis on mental health, including webinars on facial massage or coping with stress and anxiety. These events are available to all students and staff reflecting the close-knit supportive community that the UCO is often admired for.
 
The student support team will also be sharing information and resources promoting good mental health and will be signposting the UCO Counselling service which is available year-round to UCO students and staff. 
 
Charles Hunt, Vice-Chancellor of the UCO says:

"With an increasing awareness of mental health issues in society the UCO is pleased to be able to use the month of May positively to draw particular emphasis to its programme of support. Many of us have faced challenges to our mental health and it's important to be aware of that and seek assistance if needed.  This has been emphasised over the last 12 months due to the changes imposed on us by the pandemic and the dramatic changes many of us have undertaken while living, studying and working; but your mental health needs to be looked after at all times . The UCO is committed to supporting students and staff, where it can,  find the right balance for them in their mental health management."

Over the past year, many of us have discovered new ways to manage our mental wellbeing, whether it be through exercise, mindfulness or connecting with others virtually. Throughout May we'll be sharing some of the ways our staff manage their own mental health and are encouraging you to do the same. Share your tips on social media, tag them #ucomh21 and help others discover what works for them.