Taking care of your wellbeing as a commuter student

Commuting to university can be rewarding, but it also comes with unique challenges such as long travel times, less flexibility, and sometimes feeling disconnected from campus life.

Here are some tips and resources to help you stay healthy, happy, and supported.

Look after your mental health

Take breaks: If you are on campus you can use campus green spaces like St George’s Field or the Union Lawn to recharge between lectures.

When at home, make sure to take breaks from your desk to stretch, go for a walk and reset.

Quiet spaces: Libraries and commuter rooms are great for downtime if you need a breather.

Support services: The University’s Student Counselling and Wellbeing Service offers free sessions and workshops with many being ran online for easy access so you can do them both at the University or at home. 

Stay connected

It can be easy to feel isolated from university life and the 'university experience' when you commute, so it is important to make the effort to stay connected however you can. 

You can do this by: 

Joining commuter groups: Whether it’s the commuter society events or joining the commuter WhatsApp group, connecting with others who share your experience can reduce isolation.

Hybrid events: Many societies now offer online socials which are perfect if you can’t stay late on campus.

Financial wellbeing

If you commute frequently and worry about your finances, make sure to spend time considering your budget to make sure you can afford your travel and meals. 

Travel discounts: Railcards and student bus passes can save you money.

Eating whilst you travel: Bring lunch to University or check out affordable campus cafés.

Where to get help

Even if you're not on campus, support is available to you: 

Student support: The Counselling and Wellbeing team offer online sessions hosted on MS Teams. You can find out more about requesting and appointment and what to expect through the button below. 

Mental health support outside of the University: As well as the mental health support from the University, you could access the following mental health, counselling and wellbeing services in Leeds.

Emergency help: If you need urgent support, don't wait for help, get support by doing the following: 

• Call the NHS on 111. Their phone line is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
• Talk to your GP – ask for an emergency appointment at the doctor’s surgery where you are registered.
• Call the Leeds Crisis Assessment Centre: 0800 183 1485. Their phone line is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.