Freshers Survival Guide:

Homesickness may be inevitable − some 60% of students are supposed to suffer from it at some stage, though it is rare for people to find they can’t cope (nearer 10%). Making friends is important and remember everyone else is in the same boat. Try to avoid rushing into ephemeral friendships − but equally do not avoid human contact for fear of getting hurt. Lasting friendships will form but not in the first five minutes.

Many people, and particularly students, find themselves in distress and want to talk to someone immediately. This may be due to stress, bereavement, financial problems, or just feeling miserable. If you find yourself in this situation, there are two basic options.

• Local niteline. Many students’ unions run their own nitelines for students who need someone to talk. Your student handbook should give the telephone number.
• The Samaritans, which is a national organisation, will have someone you can talk to if you ring their national number, 08457 90 90 90. Or you can email via the website www.samaritans.org.uk.

They’ll be more use (and cheaper) than a bottle of vodka.