Arts

SOS Mental wellbeing

As a student, where can you get help?

During your student years, you explore your limits in terms of independence and responsibility. This does not mean that you have to go over the limits of your mental health! (Psychological) problems do not have to be borne alone. The university is there for you! On this page, you can read where to turn when you are having a hard time.

Students are there for each other

Students for Students is an initiative for and by students. A group of motivated young people - who have received training supported by psychologists - offers a listening ear. You can come to them to tell about your problems, big or small. In addition, Students for Students organises regular events that promote mental well-being. You can reach the team via the student portal, Facebook, or email.

Your lecturer is ready to listen

Do you feel comfortable talking to a particular professor? Is there a practice assistant who puts you at ease? If you are struggling with your mental health, you can always confide in this person in the first instance. Lecturers can offer a listening ear and, if your problems are study-related, perhaps give concrete advice. This confidant can also take a fresh look at your situation and help you assess the best next steps to take.

Talk to the ombudsperson

The ombuds service is also there for you. Our faculty has at least one ombudsperson per department. These people are trained to take care of you in the best possible way and enter into dialogue with you. Especially if you encounter a problem with a specific lecturer or a specific subject, our ombudspersons are the right people to turn to. If necessary, they can act as intermediaries and mediate. But also when you are struggling with psychological problems, they can be a (first) confidant.

The study programme counsellor knows what to do

Are you worried about your education or course choice? Are you having problems with several subjects? Can't make sense of your study path? For general questions, take a look at the helpdesk first. If you have a personal question or problem, please contact the study programme counsellors of this faculty:

  • History: Kathlijn Pittomvils
  • Language and literature, applied linguistics, philosophy and MPC: Ann Peeraer

Psychological support through STIP

At the Student Information Point, or STIP, a team of psychologists and study coaches are on standby. They offer psycho-education via workbooks and online materials as well as group training and individual counselling. A referral (e.g. from the ombudsperson) is not necessary; you may contact them on your own initiative. Moreover, this service is free for undergraduate and graduate students. PhD students can contact the STIP for an initial appointment, after which a suitable external counsellor is sought together. And international (doctoral) students are not excluded either: STIP staff are just as happy to help you in English!

If you have a question or problem, you can first of all look for a solution via the 'Support & guidance' page in the student portal. There you will find extensive information on all kinds of topics related to your study and your well-being, as well as useful tools such as exam planners.

You can turn to STIP for individual counselling, both with study-related problems (e.g. fear of failure, stress, difficulties with exam planning) and with personal problems. You will get a first appointment within two weeks. During one or more intake interviews, you and a psychologist will find out what will benefit you most. Thus, counselling or psychotherapy can be started at STIP, or at a specialised care provider (an external psychotherapist or psychiatrist) in the Antwerp region.

Make an appointment

  • Front desk (Mon-Fri, 9-16h): City Campus, building E - Agora, first floor
  • Telephone: +32 3 265 48 72
  • Email: stip@uantwerpen.be
  • Chat: student portal > Contact
  • Website

Overview

On this webpage, you will find an overview of all UAntwerpen's initiatives on student guidance and support. The offer is very broad, ranging from language guidance to study and graduation coaching, help with financial difficulties, and support for working students and students with special facilities. You are not alone!