Even though there’s plenty to get excited about, starting a new life at university can be a lot.

Living away from home for the first time combined with the pressure of balancing workload and socialising can impact wellbeing, with one in four students experiencing mental ill health each year.

At Northumbria University we prioritise our students’ mental, physical and academic health equally. Which is why Northumbria Students’ Union provides every student with the opportunity to take part in our Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training course, free of charge.

The 15-hour course, worth £300, is certified by Mental Health England. It enables students to recognise and understand mental health issues and respond with care and compassion, helping someone get support and remain safe while doing so.

Last year we trained more than 100 students and to celebrate International Giving Day – we need your help to support even more.

Naomi Gray, Wellbeing Manager at Northumbria University, said: “Mental Health First Aid promotes a culture shift in which individuals feel safe and able to speak out about their struggles and First Aiders feel comfortable and confident in responding with compassion, care and knowledge.”

Mary Udeze, VP Welfare at Northumbria Students’ Union added: “This proactive approach not only promotes early intervention but also reduces stigma, enhances resilience and contributes significantly to the overall wellbeing of the student body. With a staggering one in four students experiencing a mental health condition, creating a campus community where students can offer initial support to one another is crucial.”

One of our Mental Health First Aiders said: “I now feel more prepared to handle a mental health conversation or crisis on campus and in my personal life.”

A £35 donation will cover learning resource costs for one person.

Or, providing just £5 a month as a regular giver, you could support MHFA all year round.

But anything you can give will make a difference.

Help us put mental health first