Talking to someone about their suicidal thoughts

It can be hard talking about suicide. It can be hard talking about suicide. If someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, you can really help them by asking how they are and directing them to support services.

If you are not sure how to have a conversation with someone who may be thinking of suicide, these short videos offer tips to feel more confident in the support you can offer.

• This video is specifically for university students - https://www.zerosuicidealliance.com/suicide-awareness-training-uni-students

• Try this interactive video - https://prevent-suicide.org.uk/training-courses/real-talk-about-suicide

Encouraging them to get support

If you have concerns about a friend, it’s generally helpful to let them know that you are worried about them and to encourage them to talk to someone about their difficulties.

Speak to a GP

It is important for them to talk to their GP so encourage them to make an appointment. If someone is not sure about what to say to their GP, this video explains what to say, how and why.

Conversations that a patient has with a GP are confidential and the Campus Health Centre (and any NHS GP) is separate to the university.

Speak to us in Wellbeing and Student Support

Wellbeing and Student Support is open during office hours (9am-5pm Mon-Fri). Students can approach us for a consultation any working day between 10am and 3pm, either online or in Senate House. We will explore support for their mental health (within Wellbeing and Student Support and with the NHS) as well as encouraging them to speak to their department an exploring what academic support may be available. To access a consultation, please visit the Wellbeing Portal.

There is lots of support available both on and off campus - please visit emergency contacts if support is needed in an emergency or out of hours.

Reaching out on behalf of a friend

You can make contact with us in Wellbeing and Student Support if you are concerned about someone else – call us on 024 7657 5570 or come and have a brief consultation. We can reach out to a student who is struggling and offer support and advice. We will also make sure you are getting support yourself.

You may worry that your friend would not want you to speak to someone else about them. If they are at any risk, their safety is the most important consideration and it is important to tell someone about your concerns. This is especially important if the friend/ student is not currently accessing professional support, if the circumstances are complex or if you feel the situation is escalating, and may be affecting others.

Are you supporting someone for other things?

Please have a look here for how to support someone who is having a challenging time. There is also information about how to look after yourself whilst supporting them.