As we begin to settle into the new academic year, it is easy to concentrate on university work and social life, often letting our wellbeing fall by the wayside.
At University Centre Leeds, we are dedicated to promoting positive wellbeing and mental health amongst our student community.
The past year has been extremely challenging for many, especially for students who have lived alone and faced the pressures of switching to online learning.
A National Union of Students survey conducted in November 2020 revealed that over half of UK students said that their mental health is worse than before the pandemic. In addition, The Sutton Trust showed that 21% of students are still unaware of what support is available to them.
Given these troubling statistics and the upcoming national awareness campaign, World Suicide Prevention Day, we wanted to signpost the support available to students.
World Suicide Prevention Day
Organised by the International Association for Suicide Prevention, this annual event is taking place on 10 September, to bring together organisations and communities in a bid to create a world where fewer people die by suicide.
This year’s theme, ‘Creating Hope Through Action’, aims to inspire confidence and light in all of us, showing that our actions may provide hope to those who are struggling.
Getting involved
By raising awareness, reducing the stigma and encouraging action, we can help in reducing instances of suicide around the world. There are many ways you can get involved with the day:
- Light a candle near a window at 8pm on 10 September to show your support for suicide prevention
- Join in with Cycle Around the Globe
- Stay connected with Brew Monday 2021
Support
If you need someone to talk to, there are many support services available. You can also contact your GP, 111, 999 or go to A&E where someone will be able to support you.
Samaritans
24/7 support for people of all ages. You can also email to meet someone face-to-face at a local branch.
Papyrus
A service for under 35 year olds, with a hopeline helpline and webchat.
Shout
Text SHOUT to this number and receive a text response from a trained listener.
Accessing support at University Centre Leeds
We have a trained Safeguarding team who are always on hand to support you. You can contact our team on safeguarding@leedscitycollege.ac.uk. Find out more about safeguarding here and on our Student Life site here.
Short-term counselling support is available for students and you can also benefit from speaking with our Student Support team.
If you refer yourself for mental health support at the university, you will be invited to attend an initial assessment, where you will be asked to answer some questions about your support needs. Find out more here.
We also offer a range of support for personal, financial and career-related issues, which you can find out more about here.