Take time to talk
Posted on Sunday 1 February 2026
When we’re faced with the carefully curated (and unrealistic) lives presented to us on social media, it can be really easy to think we are the only ones who are struggling with studies, nervous about making friends, or worried about how we are doing.
This Thursday is national Time to Talk Day, so why not take some time to have an honest conversation with someone about how you are feeling?
You could
- arrange some distraction-free time to talk with a friend: walking and talking can be an easier way to open up
- contact someone you’ve haven’t heard from for a while and ask how they’re doing
- try opening up to someone you trust about how you are feeling
- give an honest answer when someone asks how you are
- take a deep breath when you next see someone’s 'perfect life' online: 1 in 4 people will experience a mental health problem of some kind each year
Who can help?
There are also lots of people at the University that you can talk to about how you are feeling:
Your Student or College Wellbeing Officer
Student and College Wellbeing Officers can offer a friendly, non-judgmental space for you to talk through challenges you're facing and, where appropriate, help you to navigate University services as well as other sources of support.
Your personal supervisor
Connect with your personal supervisor to talk about your academic progress and other aspects of your life. Your supervisor knows the University well and can assist you with any problems or issues you may have, and they can offer valuable advice and support to help you get the most out of your time at York.
TalkCampus
Don’t fancy a face-to-face conversation? You can download the TalkCampus app and connect with students from around the world to share the ups and downs of student life. It’s safe, free, confidential and anonymous, and easy to sign up with your university email.
Find out more
You can find out more sources of support and help on our health and wellbeing pages.