Stress and Anxiety

Stress and anxiety are amongst the most common mental health problems experienced by students. In this series of podcasts, we look at what stress and anxiety are, common signs and symptoms to look out for, some of the most common causes of stress and anxiety for students at Oxford, and how an understanding of basic physiology, neurology, and child development can help us to understand why we might be feeling stressed or anxious. Drawing on an evidence based, psychodynamic approach, we also explore a range of practical strategies and how to make a long term plan to address any stress and anxiety in your life, which you can either try out on your own or with the help of a counsellor.

Importantly, these podcasts are not intended to be used as a replacement for counselling, therapy, or medical intervention for those who might need it. Rather, the hope is that it will give you some ideas which might be part of a process of understanding more about yourself and, ultimately, feeling better.

Useful Links and Resources

University Counselling Service Self-Help Resources: https://www.ox.ac.uk/students/welfare/counselling/self-help

Points of Contact

Emergency Services: Call 999 or go to Accident & Emergency (A&E) if you are at immediate risk e.g. if you are having suicidal thoughts and believe you might act on them imminently. The nearest A&E in Oxford is at the John Radcliffe Hospital: Headley Way, Headington, Oxford, OX3 9DU.

Your GP: Your GP is a point of contact for mental as well as physical health and can make referrals to specialist services where appropriate. See your college website if you’re not sure which surgery you’re connected to.

111: Call 111 if you need medical help quickly but there is not an immediate risk, or if you are unable to contact your GP surgery (e.g. due to its being out-of-hours). As well as physical health advice, this is a source of round the clock, non-emergency advice on accessing mental health support.

College Support

Your College Welfare Team: Every college has its own setup but this may include a Wellbeing Adviser, Welfare Officer or Dean, Chaplain, Nurse and others. Check your college website if you’re not sure who to contact.

Your College Lodge: The porters can also help you access support within college. If you need urgent support outside of normal working hours, they will be able to alert an on-call Junior Dean who can help you access appropriate support.

Helplines and Online Support

Samaritans: 116 123. Emotional support helpline, free to access, operates 24/7.

Togetherall: A professionally moderated online peer support community. Register with your university email address to gain free access.