We understand the pressures facing students. We provide resources that support good health, wellbeing and fitness.

Mental wellbeing

A social network is an important part of a healthy and fun student experience. Joining one of the many societies and organisations at UCT can be a great way to meet people with similar interests. There are academic, faith, national/cultural, political and many other special interest groups to join.

Mental health support

Mental health support services are a priority at UCT.

The Department of Student Affairs’ Student Wellness Service offers professional health and counselling services. Located at various sites on all campuses, the professionals here help to prevent, detect and treat all health and psychological conditions. The psychology team provides support to all, whether you are feeling overwhelmed by personal, social, family or relationship challenges.

You can book medical, psychological, or peer counselling appointments at the Student Wellness Service.

If you are feeling urgently distressed, there is also a 24/7 SADAG UCT Student Careline available on 0800 24 25 26. It is free to call from a Telkom phone line or SMS 31393 for a call back.

Physical wellbeing

UCT is a great place to keep fit and physically active. There are over 40 sports clubs for all levels. Conventional sports are well catered for, but you also have a chance to try something more adventurous like archery, mountaineering, surfing, tai chi or fencing.

The UCT gym is available to staff and students, with affordable full membership or off-peak membership deals. There is even a climbing gym in the UCT gym complex, with a bouldering wall where members of the mountain and ski club can work on their rock climbing skills.

The Sports Science Institute of SA (SSISA) has a gym, sports performance centre, education hub, exercise rehab centre and more. Because of UCT’s association with the SSISA, staff and students get a Varsity Vibe discount on gym membership there.

Medical support

Consultations and support are offered through the Student Wellness Service, which is run by medical practitioners and nurses. They offer a range of services for those who are sick or in need of non-urgent medical attention, and helps students maintain overall health.

If you have a sports-related injury, the Sports Injuries Centre on UCT’s upper campus, has trained physiotherapists and biokineticists who treat sport and other injuries. The staff can also teach you how to prevent further injury and give advice on corrective equipment. They charge medical aid rates.