As the winter vacation approaches, here are some reminders of wellbeing support you might find useful. We’ve also included tips for this time of year, whether you have travel plans or are staying in Sussex.

Online wellbeing workshop

While the holiday season can represent joy and togetherness, it can also be associated with family or financial pressure, loneliness or anxiety. If you're worried about the holidays, join the Student Experience team's online workshop on Wednesday 6 December to meet others in a similar position and discuss some ideas and tips for coping with them.

Self-guided courses and peer support through Togetherall

As part of the University's mental wellbeing support, you also have 24/7 access to Togetherall, an online community where people share with and support one another anonymously. Sign up to access self-guided group and individual courses, a library of useful articles and resources, and one-on-one therapy delivered through web appointments.

University support services

The University offers advice and support on any issue that may be affecting you in the lead up to the holidays. You can contact the Student Centre in person at the Welcome Desk, by phone (01273 075700), or online via the My Sussex portal. You can also use My Sussex to book an appointment to visit our friendly advisors.

Travel tips

If you’re travelling within the UK, you can save one third of your journey fare with a valid Railcard. Make sure to check your journeys in advance in case of any disruption too.

If you’re travelling internationally, an International Student Identity Card (ISIC) could help you access discounts and verify that you’re a student.

You can find information and support for international students on the Student Hub.

If you’re thinking of booking ahead for future vacations, you can check term dates for the rest of this academic year.

Staying over the winter vacation

For those of you staying on campus or locally, there is plenty going on in December. You can find links to campus opening hours on the Staying over the holidays page.

On Christmas day itself, the University Chaplaincy invites students living on campus to the Meeting House for an afternoon of board games, music and refreshments, taking place from 12 noon to 3pm on Monday 25 December. There will also be a Catholic Mass at 11am on Christmas day.

Earlier in December, all students are invited to join these events at the Meeting House:

• Make a Christmas tree decoration, Wednesday 6 December, 1.30pm-4pm (refreshments provided)
• Traditional Christmas Carol Service, Monday 11 December, 6.30pm (refreshments from 5.30pm)

This weekend (9-10 December), Brighton’s Artists Open Houses winter edition continues. You can visit the houses and studios of artists and makers across Brighton and Hove, Lewes and the surrounding areas. It's an opportunity to see a diverse selection of artworks and shop for unique presents.

On Thursday 21 December, Burning the clocks will bring people together to carry paper lanterns through the city before burning them on the beach to mark the end of the year.

For more events in the wider Brighton area, explore the Visit Brighton website.

Wherever you are, we hope you have some time to relax over the festive period.