Who can you turn to when you need someone to listen? #NLBeHeard

University can be a challenging time, and sometimes we just need to get things off our chest. Other times, we may need more specific support. The lack of funding for student psychological services means that the average waiting time to see a counsellor is 6 weeks, although this can sometimes be longer. Below, I’ve included some potential sources of support which you can turn to if you need someone to listen (hover over the bold items to find links to relevant websites):

The Mix

The Mix is the UK’s leading support service for young people. They are there to listen and support you with any challenges you may be facing- from mental health to money, from homelessness to finding a job, from break-ups to drugs. Services they offer include:

• Discussion boards for 13-25 year olds where you can talk anonymously about what's on your minds and help each other out
• The Mix counselling service: short-term help with mental health and emotional wellbeing. Their telephone counselling service is available for under 25s. To access support, call them on 0808 808 4994 between 4 pm to 11 pm.
•  Group chatrooms: A safe space for anyone aged 11 to 25 to support each other with their problems. Open every Wednesday from 8-9:30pm. 

Papyrus

Papyrus are a suicide prevention charity who provide confidential help and advice to young people under 35 and anyone worried about a young person. Their hotline service, HOPELINEUK, is staffed by advisors who are there to listen and provide you with confidential support and practical advice. You can contact them in the following ways:

Call: 0800 068 4141                      Text: 07786209697                       Email: pat@papyrus-uk.org

Their opening hours are as follows: 10am – 10pm weekdays; 2pm – 10pm weekends; 2pm – 10pm bank holidays.

Student Minds

Student Minds offer support groups as a safe, confidential place that allow students to talk and listen without judgement. They offer different support groups all run by trained facilitators:

·       Positive Minds: six-week course for students experiencing low mood or mild depression

·       Eating difficulty groups: informal groups to provide support and encouragement to any student who is experiencing difficulties around food

·       Supporting supporters workshops: for those supporting a friend or family member experiencing eating difficulties

Click here to find out if your university has a Student Minds support group.

Student Support and Wellbeing Drop-in Sessions

Some universities offer drop in sessions. The availability of these drop-in sessions and the type of support offered will vary from university to university. You can take a look at the support services on offer on your university website to find out more.

If you need someone to talk to between the hours of 6pm to 8am, Nightline is here to listen! 

If our lines happen to be closed and you urgently need someone to speak to someone, the Samaritans are a 24-hour service. You can contact them by calling 116 123.