Personal life crises, as well as international crises, affect us in various ways. Facing a difficult experience, loss, climate change or war may be a situation, where we don’t have any existing action plans. It is common for the body and the mind to react in various ways, especially in the beginning. You may notice changes in your sleeping patterns, appetite, or arousal. Often, you may notice arising emotions such as fear, sadness, and anger. Anxiety and worries may be present constantly.
In the middle of a crisis, trying to take care of one’s well-being is vital. It is worthwhile to continue your everyday living routines. Taking time for pleasant activities such as outdoor activities or a warm shower may help you relax. Don’t be left alone with your worries but talk with your friends and close ones. If your feel burdened by worries or feel significantly distracted from your studies, there are easy-access-help available:
- In the university community, university chaplains provide support and help in crises regardless of faith. Student’s guide page Cooperation with the congregation.
- In Tampere, the Osviitta Crisis Center is prepared to provide support to students touched by the situation. Their services are available on short notice, always confidential, and free of charge.
- Nationally, Crisis counselling is offered by Mieli ry. Crisis Helpline in English and in Arabicis available (see service hours): on call at 09 2525 0113 or on WhatsApp +358 40 195 8202.
- Nyyti ry, the national organisation for the mental wellbeing of students, offers group chats, shares information, etc.
If anxiety dominates your life or the situation undermines your mental health, you cannot sleep, you are unable to function daily, or your previous mental disorder worsens, seek professional help from health care. You can get help, for example, from your local health center, FSHS, or your possible current care provider.
Study psychologists support the university community in crises by providing support for degree programs and staff to meet anxious students. Study psychologists do not offer direct crisis assistance, as there is typically some queuing for an appointment, which makes it impossible to react quickly to a student’s crisis. The discussions with study psychologists focus on improving student’s study skills and abilities and resources to study. Counselling only by appointment, request via email at studypsychologist.tau@tuni.fi
