Suicide is the act of intentionally ending one’s life. It is common for students to have the thought that they want to end their life. This can manifest itself either through them saying “I just want to end all of this” or by making plans to do so. Many people who have experienced suicidal thoughts say they felt so overwhelmed by negative feelings that they believed they had no other option. With appropriate support and treatment, they were able to allow the negative feelings to pass.
If you believe that a student is feeling suicidal, or a student reports that a friend or classmate is feeling suicidal, it is important that you make a referral to the Wellbeing team. If you feel comfortable in doing so then try to establish if anybody else is aware of this situation and gather any other information that is available about the reported concern.
Once you have gathered any information, make the referral to the Wellbeing team as soon as possible.
Although they are rare, student suicides do occur. If a student suicide or supporting a suicidal student has affected you, it is important that you look after your own emotional wellbeing. Contact colleagues in the Wellbeing team for advice, or make use of the free Employee Assistance Programme provided by the University.