World Health Day is a global health awareness day to mark the foundation of the World Health Organisation (WHO) and to provide an opportunity to bring attention to a global health subject each year. 

The theme for 2026 is Together for health. Stand with science, which celebrates the power of scientific collaboration to protect the health of people, animals, plants and the planet, especially during a period of misinformation. You can find out more information on the WHO’s page. 

Support available to you: 

Thinking about health we wanted to remind you of some of the university services and teams who are on hand to support you if needed. You can find out more information about your health and support here. 

If you have general concerns or need signposting to specialist services, don’t forget to reach out to the Student Life and Guidance (SLG) team, or your Personal/Clinical Academic Tutor (PAT/CAT), to explore the support available to you. 

As a KMMS student, you can also access specialist mental health support from Mental Health Advisers through the Kent Student Support and Wellbeing Service, which offers confidential help through drop-in sessions and appointments. The service can also provide free counselling sessions with qualified counsellors. Alternatively, your GP can help offer support with mental health. You can find out more information about mental health support here. 

At KMMS, we offer all students services provided by an external Occupational Health (OH) company, such as screenings and immunisations prior to your placement settings, to minimise any risks associated with this. We can also refer you to OH throughout your course, if your circumstances change, to help evaluate any adjustments to support you. You can find out more information about OH here. 

And of course there is also Olive, KMMS’ therapy dog ! 

We offer several drop-in opportunities for our students throughout the year for some canine cuddles. You can also follow Olive over on Instagram at @olivethekmmsdog.  

Animals can prove to be a highly beneficial wellbeing tool, as they can help reduce stress and anxiety, as well as provide companionship. You can find out more information about pets and mental health from the the Mental Health Foundation and in research from the University of Kent led by Dr Adelina Gschwandtner from the University of Kent and Dr Michale Gmeiner at the London School of Economics. New study proves pets increase human life satisfaction and wellbeing – News Centre – University of Kent 

The universities also offer several animal therapy sessions, including with a duck! Be sure to check out the What’s On section of the Student Newsletter for opportunities to boost your wellbeing. 

Plants and the planet 

As we enter spring, it’s a good opportunity to mention the impact of greenery on our health. Nature helps to alleviate stress, stabilise blood pressure, and help with anxiety and depression. Spending time outside is not only beneficial for your mental wellbeing, but also your physical health, providing you with vital vitamin D and exercise opportunities. You can find out more information about nature and wellbeing from the Woodland Trust. 

Health is integral to you as a student at KMMS, but also as a person. If you experience any physical or mental health concerns during your course, please do not hesitate to contact us. 

Out of Hours Support 

If you need help outside of office hours, please see the immediate contacts of support on the Student Portal. 

If at any time you feel your life is threatened or need urgent support from police or ambulance service call the emergency services on 999.