World Suicide Prevention Day – Let’s Break the Silence Together

[Mayukh]

Hey everyone,

World Suicide Prevention Day is a vital reminder for all of us to come together and talk about mental health. In my time as a Resident Advisor and Transition Mentor, I’ve seen just how important it is to have a solid support system. Life can be tough—especially during big transitions—and it’s essential to know that no one should have to face their struggles alone.

We all experience hard times, and sometimes those feelings can be overwhelming. One of the most powerful things we can do is simply reach out to those around us. It might be a flatmate, classmate, or someone who’s been a bit quieter than usual. Don’t hesitate to ask, “How are you really doing?” You never know how much that simple question might help.

Here’s How We Can Support Each Other:

Listen without judgment : Sometimes, all someone needs is to feel heard. You don’t have to have all the answers—just being there can be enough.
Look for the signs : Sudden changes in behaviour, withdrawal from social activities, or even difficulty keeping up with university life can be indicators someone might need help.
Encourage professional support : If someone is struggling, let them know it’s okay to seek help. Whether it’s from a counsellor, a mental health service, or a trusted helpline, they don’t need to go through it alone.

UK-Based Helplines and Services:

Samaritans (116 123) – Available 24/7, Samaritans offers confidential support to anyone who needs someone to talk to. No matter what you’re going through, they’re there to listen.
Shout (Text SHOUT to 85258) – A free, 24/7 UK text service for anyone in crisis. If you’re feeling overwhelmed and need support, Shout is just a text away.
Mind (0300 123 3393) – Mind provides mental health information and advice, as well as guidance on where to seek professional help.
Papyrus HOPELINEUK (0800 068 4141) – A helpline specifically for young people under 35 who are struggling with thoughts of suicide, or anyone concerned about someone who might be.

Let’s Create Safe Spaces:

As a Transition Mentor, I’ve learned how important it is to foster safe spaces for open conversations. Talking about mental health can feel daunting, but it’s these moments that create real change. University can be a challenging time for many, and it’s okay to not have it all figured out. More importantly, it’s okay to ask for help.

We all have the power to make a difference—whether that’s checking in on a friend, starting a conversation, or sharing a helpline. Together, we can break the silence, and by doing so, we can save lives.

If you’re ever feeling overwhelmed, or if you know someone who might be struggling, reach out. Whether it’s to me, to a trusted friend, or to one of the services listed above, there’s always someone who cares.

[Yupeng]

Thank you for sharing all the information! Suicide is never something that is far away from us. Everybody do have the ability to change the situation before it’s been too late. Yes, no one has to face the struggle alone!

[jaramillopaula12]

This is such an important message! It’s so true that just checking in and being there for someone can make a big difference

[carmennjg]

Hey, thank you so much for sharing this. I really resonate with what you said, especially about life being tough during big transitions. I’ve been through some challenging times myself, and I know how easy it is to feel overwhelmed and alone. I wish more people understood how much a simple “How are you really doing?” can mean to someone who’s struggling.

When you’re supporting others, how do you take care of your own mental health? It can be exhausting to be there for everyone else while you’re trying to handle your own stress too. Would love to hear your thoughts!

[Mayukh]

Hi, thank you and I am glad this resonated with you. To be fair, when trying to be there for someone else, it’s really very difficult to look after your own mental health. Especially when you are listening to something very traumatic or heartbreaking it can trigger your own traumatic past sometimes and this has often happened with some Resident Advisors in the past. For me, while listening or attending to someone, I often get very emotionally involved and this could be very detrimental to my academics or mental health and this has often happened with me. It’s definitely not an easy job and the only way to deal with it is talking with someone else or becoming more resilient through experiences