Trigger warning: this article references self-harm and suicide prevention.
When life feels tough and you’re feeling down, it can be hard to see a way through. You are not alone.
You or someone you know might be feeling depressed and sad. Lots of people have these feelings from time to time, but if those feelings have become overwhelming and you don’t know what to do about them, you might start to feel that life is not worth living and to think about ending your life.
These feelings can get in the way of everything else – so much that you might find it hard to believe that you can feel better. But you can, whatever the problem. Suicidal thoughts do not have to end in suicide – talking openly about how you feel and seeking help can save lives.
What’s important for you to know is if you are feeling like this, there will be a way that things can get better and you can come out the other side and feel ok again.
If you feel like you may not be able to keep yourself safe, then it’s time to get immediate help. Take a look at our support and advice for help in a crisis:
Counselling and Mental Health Service
The Counselling and Mental Health Service is available from Tuesday, 4 January after a short period of closure (December 23 – January 3). Their working hours are Monday-Friday 9-5. Please follow the guidance for accessing an appointment via the link. If after following the triage questionnaire the suggestion is that you need urgent advice then please do follow the guidance for this and email the ‘duty practitioner’ who will aim to get back to you as soon as possible on the day that you email in.
If you need to talk
Whatever you’re going through, there are lots of ways to reach out and speak to someone should you need to.
The Health Assured 24/7 helpline and app offers access to mental health support from trained counsellors and advisors who are ready to listen and provide help whenever you need it. It’s anonymous, non-judgmental and available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Other ways to reach out include:
Papyrus: 0800 068 41 41 (9am – Midnight)
The Samaritans: 116 123 (24 hours a day)
SOS on suicide: 0300 1020 505 (9am – Midnight)
Manchester Crisis Line: 0800 953 0285 (24 hours)
These services are for anyone who’s struggling. They won’t judge you, they’re free to use and they’re completely anonymous.
Mental health emergencies
A&E are available for all health crises, including those related to mental health. Mental health emergencies are serious. You’re not wasting anyone’s time.
A&E departments across the UK have a dedicated mental health team. It can feel quite daunting going to A&E but the mental health staff there will give you time to talk through your difficulties and will aim to find a plan that will work for you. This can often mean accessing community based support like a Mental Health Home Treatment Team. Please do not hesitate to attend A&E if you feel like you are at immediate risk – call 999 or attend A&E.
If you are on campus then you can also call security if you need urgent assistance: 0161 306 9966.
Worried about someone?
If you feel that someone you know may be at risk either to themselves or may be extremely vulnerable then this guidance may be helpful to read.
Health Assured can also offer advice if you are concerned for someone.
If you feel like someone is at immediate risk then do not hesitate to call 999. Call handlers are very skilled at supporting people through a crisis situation and will provide help as soon as possible.
For more information on help in a crisis and seeking emergency support, visit our Counselling and Mental Health Service advice page.