The experience of going through university can be stressful. As we venture into unfamiliar territory and leave our comforts behind us, the changes can over load us with pressure. Student life can be stressful at the best of times so when things seem to get worse it's nice to know that there is someone who has experienced what you may be going through and can help you.

Below is some brief advice on some of the issues that you may come across in your time as a student.

Student accommodation in Nottingham

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Home Sickness in Nottingham

At some point in our lives most of us will experience some degree of homesickness. This is because it takes time to adjust to your surroundings. When you arrive at university most freshers will feel the same as you. Whilst you are settling in to university life remember that is is perfectly acceptable to go up to people and introduce yourself - they'll most likely be delighted that someone is speaking to them! Also remember that not everyone meets their best mates at the start of term - the more you integrate into university life by joining societies and getting involved in the many opportunities available to you the sooner you will meet people that you connect with.

Healthy Eating in Nottingham

Whilst everyone loves the satisfaction of attempting to eat a pizza or a kebab after a good night out there are benefits of eating fruit and vegetables etc too. With a good diet you will find yourself with much more energy to do the things you want to do. Around exam time it is very important to eat well so you don't tire yourself out with all that revising. Also eating a good amount of fruit and vegetables will keep your immune system healthy helping you battle colds a flu - the last thing you want is a cold a week before an important exam.

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) in Nottingham

Not fun. Two thirds of all cases are in the under-25 age group. It is important to stay protected if sexual intimacy occurs. One of the most reliable options available is the condom. These are available from various sources including family planning clinics, health clinics, stores and vending machines. Only ever buy condoms carrying the Kite Mark Quality Seal ensuring the highest quality of protection for you if used properly.

If you suspect that you may have an STI it is always better to get it diagnosed early. Do not be embarrassed - you can have it treated confidentially and without judgement at the GUM clinic at Nottingham City Hospital 01153627745

Meningitis in Nottingham

It is important to recognise the symptoms as early as possible. Symptoms include:

• Fever
• Joint Pain
• Stiff Neck
• Headache
• Drowsiness
• Vomiting
• Light Aversion

If you have any suspicion that you or someone else may have meningitis contact Cripps Health Centre on 01158468888 or contact your GP.

Drugs and Nottingham

The only way to avoid the effects of taking drugs is to not use them. Should you decide that you are going to use them, make sure that you know the risks associated with them. Never take drugs alone and always tell someone what you are taking so they can help in case of trouble. Remember that when buying drugs you cannot know for definite what you are buying. Some drugs can make your sexual confidence higher - Always practice safe sex. What the CRS states as the rules for hall life on drugs:

" The use of any hallucogenic drug or intoxicating material (apart from alcohol in moderation or tobacco in designated smoking rooms) is prohibited. Any student caught using any illegal substances will be severely reprimanded and fined by the warden. This includes any class A, B or C drug (including cannabis) as well as other hallucogenic drugs such as salvia divinorum "

So beware...

www.talktofrank.com

Services

This service can give you free, non-judgemental and confidential information on a range of issues from housing matters, council tax to consumer or employment issues. You can also get useful information and advice on arrangements for student finance.

The centre is open in the Portland building between 9am-4pm (10am-6pm Wednesday during term time), and in the amenities centre at Sutton Bonnington on Tuesday afternoons during term time. It is run on a 'drop in' basis.

Student Advice Centre 0115 8468730

student-advice-centre@nottingham.ac.uk

Nightline is a confidential, non-directive and non-judgemental listening and information student run service service. Male and female volunteers are trained to confidentially listen to your worries, they can discuss health and relationship matters and have many useful helpline numbers relating to potential problems such as depression, stress, accommodation problems, bereavement, sexual health or eating disorders. They won't give advice but will always be there for you to talk about whatever, at what ever time and for how ever long. Also gives useful information on train and bus services, cinema and theatre times, pizza and kebab numbers and other useful numbers such as 24 hour plumbers, chemists etc.

011595(14985) / 95(14986)

The university offers a free counselling service which is available to undergraduate and postgraduate students and all members of staff.. The service offers an opportunity to talk in confidence about problems such as anxiety, depresion, family concerns, bereavement, difficulty in adjusting to a new way of life, work and study related  problems, drug and alcohol problems, physical and/of sexual abuse, eating disorders and HIV/aids.

Call for an appointment 0115 95(13695)

Trent Building, university Park campus

www.nottingham.ac.uk/counselling

Opening hours Monday to Friday 9am-4.30pm (Closed for lunch 1pm-2pm)

The chaplains will support you regardless of you're beliefs. They are located on the mezzanine floor at the west end of the Portland building. For more information visit:

www.nottingham.ac.uk/chaplains

Gayline is a telephone line that aims to support people with concerns with regards to sexuality. It provides three main services:

1) General information

2) A listening service

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