Mental health disorders can blight a student's life, causing their academic attainment to fall, sometimes leading them to drop out of university altogether.
A friend who has recently become distant could be struggling with a lot more than their workload, and it is important to reach out and assist those who may be dealing with a mental health issue.
A study in 2007 identified 27% of students sampled had carried out at least one incident of self harm, with more than 10% carrying this out whilst a student at university. These shocking figures further exemplify the need to identify and treat mental health problems amongst the student population.
Care in Mind have compiled a few tips on how to approach a situation with a friend and help someone who is struggling.
Dr David Kingsley, the consultant adolescent psychiatrist at Priory Hospital Cheadle Royal, in Cheshire, shared his advice on how to help a friend if you think they are struggling with depression.
How To Help Someone Struggling with Mental Health issues
Useful websites and helplines:
Samaritans, open 24 hours a day, on 08457 90 90 90
Mind, open Monday to Friday, 9am-6pm on 0300 123 3393
Students Against Depression, a website by students, for students.
HopeLine runs a confidential advice helpline if you are a young person at risk of suicide or are worried about a young person at risk of suicide. Mon-Fri 10-5pm and 7pm-10pm. Weekends 2pm-5pm on 0800 068 41 41
Student Minds To join the community or launch a student group contact the charity on home@mentalwealthuk.com