No matter where you're staying for Christmas, whether it's Campus Halls or at home with family, it's important to take care of both your physical and mental health.
We understand that while this time of year is fun for many, the dark months can lead to lower moods and feelings of loneliness. AUB has plenty of resources and links to help you through tough times.
Find out more about our support systems, plus some top tips about what's available in the meantime.
AUB Wellbeing Support
AUB Wellbeing will be closed from 23 December onwards, but will be open again from Monday 5 January 2026. Here's more information on when each of our services will be available in the new year:
Monday 5 January 2026 — all online services including counselling, study skills, futures, disability and mentoring.
The University Retreat will close on 20 December 2025, also re-opening on 5 January 2026. Find out more.
Monday 12 January 2026 — in-person appointments and AUB Wellbeing's drop-in service.
In the meantime, you can book an online or in-person session via AUB Bookings or email wellbeing@aub.ac.uk.
Alternative crisis support
If you do need to reach out for help over the holidays, don't hesitate to reach out to the following resources, recommended by our Wellbeing team.
The Hahnemann House Retreat (Dorset Mental Health Forum)
The Retreat is a safe and welcoming environment for anyone over 18 years of age, based in Dorset and who've self-identified their crisis and want to access support.
You can find them at Hahnemann House, Hahnemann Road, Bournemouth, BH2 5JW, open daily from 16.30–00.00. Feel free to drop in – no appointment needed.
Paragon
Dorset’s domestic abuse helpline. Call 0800 032 5204.
Connection
Connection is a 24/7 Dorset healthcare helpline for anyone experiencing a crisis with their mental health. You can contact them via 111. Find out more.
Paragon
For national support, call 0800 032 5204.
Refuge
National domestic abuse support. Call 0808 2000 247, or get in touch with their online live chat and resources.
Shout
Shout is the UK’s first 24/7 text service, free on all major mobile networks, for anyone in crisis anytime, anywhere. You can text them on 85258.
The Samaritans
To speak to someone in confidence, the Samaritans are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week on 08457 909090 or 116 123 (free for mobiles and landlines). You can also email jo@samaritans.org.
Student Space
Student Space offer online support and advice, with helpful, easy to read articles around navigating the winter break as a student.
Hub of Hope
The UK’s largest mental health support directory. You can find helpful resources or crisis services in your local area.
Top tips for taking care of yourself
As well as taking care of your mental and physical health, the winter break is a great time to slow down, reset and do what feels right for you. Here are some extra self-love tips for when you're feeling low.
Do things that help you feel grounded. Keep it simple, like taking a walk along the beach with your favourite podcast or playlist, explore the Lower Gardens, or spend an afternoon doing something calming like yoga, painting, journalling or cooking a comfort meal.
Plan a self-care day. Give yourself permission to properly rest. Whether that's a long bath, a DIY face mask or treating yourself to a spa-style session – even a long, hot shower can feel like a mini reset.
Try a date night with yourself. Plan a solo evening out – think festive meals at your favourite place, a hot drink and a stroll past Christmas lights, or a cosy film night at the cinema. It might feel a bit unusual at first, but a solo date can feel empowering too.
Volunteer and give back. If you’d like to meet people and do something meaningful, volunteering can be a great way to spend part of your December. Local food banks and charities like Hope for Food, Bournemouth Foodbank and We are humans often need extra help around Christmas, from sorting donations to packing parcels or supporting community meals.
And remember: you don’t have to celebrate. For some people Christmas is a big event, while for others, it’s just another day – both feelings are completely okay. If you’re not feeling festive, you don’t need to explain or justify it. It's important to do what feels comfortable for you and focus on supporting your wellbeing.
We wish our creative community a restful Christmas and festive holiday season, and a happy new year. Always remember to look after yourself and reach out when you think you need help.
