Feeling low?
Low mood can show up in many different ways like tiredness, lack of motivation, trouble concentrating, or a sense of emptiness. You might find yourself endlessly scrolling, falling behind in your studies, or maybe trying to keep going as normal but without feeling much joy. Maybe it feels too hard to get to campus, attend lectures, cook, or exercise. Many people also describe a strong urge to isolate yourself, which can lead to loneliness and make it even harder to feel better. You might feel your presence would only bring others down or ruin the mood. Some find certain times of the year more difficult than others.
You’re not alone. Many students go through periods of depression, and there’s no shame in that.
What can you do yourself?
- Create routines – try to eat, sleep and move regularly.
- Stay connected – even when it feels tough. Meet a friend or talk to someone.
- Lower the pressure – you don’t have to perform at your best all the time.
- Do something you enjoy – even small things can bring energy and joy.
- Keep up good habits – even if it doesn’t feel fun at first, sticking with them can gradually bring back positive feelings.
When you need more support
Student Health Services
Talk to us about how you’re feeling and get help to move forward. You’ll find our contact details and opening hours here.
Study Guidance
Your department’s study counsellor can help you make a plan to catch up with your studies. General study guidance is also available if you’re considering switching programmes. More info and contact details can be found here.
Campus Church
Offers supportive conversations, grief groups and meditation groups. Everyone is welcome, regardless of beliefs. Read more here.
Youth Clinic
If you’re 23 or younger, you can get support from the Youth Clinic – for example, through counselling or medication. Find their contact details and opening hours here.
Health Centre
You can always contact your local health centre for advice, assessment and treatment. Visit 1177.se to find and get in touch with your health centre.
Student Societies
It’s often easier to get going when you meet others through a shared interest. Check out the student societies at Umeå University. Umeå Municipality also has a list of other groups, including non-university options.
Suicidal thoughts – do you sometimes feel like you do not want to live anymore?
A lot of people experience thoughts about not wanting to live when they are going through a rough time and do not see any simple solutions to their problems. You should never keep suicidal thoughts to yourself. It is important to tell someone you trust about how you feel. It can be a friend, someone in your family, a health care professional or an anonymous helpline.
Most people who struggle with suicidal thoughts do not actually want to die but may need some help to manage life. It is common to feel very alone and think that it is no use talking to someone. Many of us might be afraid to be judged, misunderstood or not be taken seriously. But there is effective help to be found and if you feel like you have already tried reaching out without getting the help you need, it is important that you try again.
If you want to read more about the possible causes of suicidal thoughts and feelings, coping strategies as well as how to know if you should seek professional help – please click on the the link to Mind UK.
If it is an emergency
If your suicidal thoughts are getting so bad that your situation is becoming unbearable or if you are making plans to commit suicide, then you need to immediately visit the psychiatric clinic or call 112, the national phone number for emergencies.
