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Oxford University

Supporting your mental health at Oxford

Oxford has a comprehensive approach to support your mental health during your time here, set out under the Common Approach. On this page you’ll find a guide on steps to take to find support if you need it, ways you can best support yourself, and what you can do to help others.  

Students walking in the Botanic Gardens

Your College: your community

Connections to promote mental wellbeing  

  • Friends, Peer Supporters, common rooms, sport, clubs, and societies 
     

Welfare support

Each college has a welfare team, a Welfare Lead, and a Disability Coordinator

  • Tutors can also refer you to appropriate support 
     

Your department: supporting your wellbeing

Academic and personal development

  • Each department has a welfare contact and a Disability Coordinator
  • Welfare contacts and Disability Coordinators should be listed on your department’s website
  • Supervisors can refer you to appropriate support 

University’s Student Welfare and Support Services

Confidential support

NHS: Mental health treatment and long-term support

Accessing NHS services

  • The University can help you to access appropriate NHS mental health services if needed
  • College doctors or nurses can provide additional support 

Supporting your own mental health

Self-support strategies

  • Maintain communication with your college and department.
  • Seek support when needed (e.g., self-referring to the University Counselling Service or access NHS services)
  • Support your fellow students
  • If you have a mental health disability, register with the Disability Advisory Service for structured support 

Additional Resources


The Common Approach is designed to create a supportive environment where you can thrive academically and personally. By making use of resources from colleges, departments, and the wider University, alongside NHS services, you can navigate your mental health journey with confidence and support.