DeStresstival Supports Over 2,000 Warwick Students Through Exam Season
By Mental Health Correspondent
More than 2,300 students at the University of Warwick signed up to take time out this exam season with DeStresstival 2025 – a free, four-week programme of wellbeing activities designed to reduce stress and support mental health during a demanding time of year.
Organised by Warwick Sport in collaboration with Warwick Students' Union, Wellbeing Services, Warwick Arts Centre, Sustainability, Chaplaincy and the Residential Community Team, this year’s expanded programme built on last year’s successful two-week pilot.
It offered students accessible opportunities to pause, recharge, and reconnect – with many saying the events helped them feel more supported, relaxed, and energised during exams.
The 2025 DeStresstival saw 2,355 students sign up – a 54% increase on 2024 – showing strong demand for student-led wellbeing initiatives.
Georgie Pilling, Student User Experience Officer and DeStresstival lead, said:
“It was a real pleasure to welcome so many students. Exam season can be overwhelming, so creating space for students to pause and care for their wellbeing is important. Whether through team sports, quiet reflection, or time with animals, we hope everyone felt more supported and connected.”
Will Thomas, Head of Student Community Experience, added:
“Through the Together at Warwick programme, we promote activities that make Warwick feel welcoming and inclusive. Exam time can feel isolating, so events like DeStresstival help bring people together, take a break, and get active. We’re proud to support this event for the second year running.”
Students were offered a range of ways to get involved – from yoga and guided meditation to creative workshops and sleep support. The programme also included climbing, pickleball, animal therapy, and art therapy sessions.
A highlight for many was the petting zoo, where students enjoyed the calming benefits of animal interaction. Students also praised climbing, with many trying it for the first time, helping them step outside their comfort zones and feel energised during exams.
One Warwick PGT student shared: “It was great fun, and I connected with other students. I loved the chance to create; it was incredibly relaxing.”
Warwick Sport and partners are committed to building on this success and continuing to develop inclusive wellbeing activities. For updates, students are encouraged to visit the Warwick Sport website or follow @WarwickUni on social media.
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