News

It’s normal for issues to rear their heads at the start of a new academic year as students settle into new households, and this year’s circumstances have led to an increase in complaints as students grapple with lockdown rules and restrictions on socialising. Some of the most common issues we’ve seen include the following:

• Housemates not following lockdown rules – including having partners stay over or hosting parties
• Housemates taking drugs at home
• Feeling isolated due to an unsociable household and lockdown rules
• Struggling to adapt to living in a new place – missing friends and family, living away from home and the pressures of pandemic life
• Not getting on with new household and difficulty making friends
• Finding it hard to concentrate when working in an unhappy home environment

• Your first step towards resolving an issue should always be speaking to each other. Of course, this isn’t always possible and if you think it would make things worse or lead to you being unsafe, then don’t take this approach. However we encourage you to be open about your feelings and the impact the situation is having on you. In many cases, housemates have no idea how other residents are feeling, and opening up can enable you to find common ground and come to a compromise – after all, it’s easy to become wrapped up in your own life and not think of others during a pandemic. Gaining a mutual understanding of your housemates and their behaviour is one of the best ways to make things work at home and prevent problems spiralling out of control.
• If it’s isolation and loneliness that’s the problem, broadening your support and social networks is one of the best ways to relieve some of the pressure and stress you may be feeling. In line with the new rules, LUU’s 300+ clubs and societies have gone virtual, meaning you can meet like-minded people and make new friends in a way that’s safe and legal.

• If you aren’t currently self-isolating, it can be really beneficial to get outside to boost your mood. Going for a walk and getting to know your surroundings can be a great way to feel better and reduce any feelings of being trapped or isolated. In addition to all the normal benefits of fresh air and exercise, it’ll help you feel more connected to your community and university.
• Don’t underestimate the power of connecting with loved ones virtually – make the most of the technology available to you to catch up with family, friends from home and those who live in different households.
• If exercise is your thing, our on-campus gym The Edge is now back open. A change of scenery and a dose of endorphins – what could be better?

If things are really getting you down, it’s very important to acknowledge and manage the impact the stress is having on you and your mental health. Luckily, there are a number of ways you can access emotional support.

• The University’s Student Counselling and Wellbeing Service is offering virtual face to face support via Zoom.
• They also run a number of workshops on topics like coping with anxiety and managing stress, which may be an effective way to help cope with your situation.
• Togetherall (formerly Big White Wall) is an anonymous online support community providing 24/7 online peer and professional support, to help you get things off your chest and explore your feelings with the help of trained counsellors. You’ll also learn how to improve and manage your mental health and wellbeing.
• LUU’s Help & Support team are always on hand to provide advice on your living situation or any other issues you’re experiencing, including if you decide to move out of your accommodation.