Sex, sexuality and romance are of great importance to many students. The atmosphere of being around other people in an environment away from family in often your first setting as an adult mean the desire to discover and explore this dimension of yourself is heightened. It’s also an area where psychological or even physical injury can occur and talking about the downside of sexuality and sex is often not easy.

Heartbreak can be devastating and can impact mood to detrimental extents. Abuse or assault can have long lasting effects and shame about sexually transmitted disease can erode mental health.

Learning about and developing your own boundaries and self care, like most things takes time. You are not to blame for someone else crossing your boundaries and it is important to get help if this happens to you. Finding out what feels good for you sexually as opposed to what might feel expected of you, will really help you enjoy your sexual and romantic relationships.

Sexual diversity

Sexual feelings or attraction may be for people of the same sex, or the opposite sex, for everyone or for no one. While society has come a long way in ensuring there is equality for LGBTQIA+ people, some people are still bullied, made to feel ‘other’, or not accepted by family or friends because of their sexuality. We have a page with more information on sexual diversity.

Abusive relationships and domestic violence

We have resources available for support if you suspect you are or have been in an abusive relationship:

Resources on domestic and relationship abuse.

Resources on arranged or forced marriage.

Resources on abuse.