Content Warning – this article contains conversations discussing mental health and suicide.
World Mental Health Day is upon us, and it is a good time to reflect not only on ourselves but those around us. Mental health matters and openly discussing it can make a world of difference. After all, there should be no stigma attached to mental health.
It can be quite easy to dismiss mental health; it might not affect you or a loved one. You might not know someone who is struggling. But the reality is that mental health can affect anyone and at any time. So being familiar with the support network around you, whether that is your personal life, work life or even your studies, is very important. As students in higher education, there are other stresses piled on to us that can result in difficult times. At the OU, those studies are often holding down jobs, family responsibilities, health issues etc. World Mental Health Day acts as a reminder to all of us to take some time to reflect and reach out for support if we need it.
Mental Health is a very broad topic and can cover anything from long-lasting conditions requiring medication to short-term moments in our life. Tragically, some university students are unable to cope with the difficulties they are facing and decide to take their own life.
I wanted to take this opportunity to remind everyone that there is fantastic support available at the Open University and the Open University Student Association if you are struggling. No one is alone, despite the fact distant learning can feel like a lonely place sometimes.
One very helpful resource that can help you and your fellow students is the Zero Suicide Alliance training specifically designed for university students. The training is completely free. It takes around 20 minutes to complete and will provide you with the skills to identify the signs that someone is struggling, how to address it, and additional resources you can signpost to for support.
Zero Suicide Alliance Training
Finally, let’s use World Mental Health Day to reflect on the amazing achievements we have all made this year. Take time to reflect on your achievements in all parts of your life. In difficult times, reflecting on the good can make such a difference. Remember, just enrolling on an OU course is a phenomenal achievement. Whatever period of your life you are in, working towards a degree is amazing and everyone should hold a sense of pride.
There are additional resources and support networks available from both the OU and OUSA:
The Open University offers several resources designed to support your wellbeing:
- TalkCampus: A peer support platform where you can talk to other students around the world who understand what you’re going through. Sometimes, it’s helpful to hear from others facing similar struggles.
- OU Wellbeing App: This app provides tools to help manage stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. It’s packed with resources to help you maintain a healthy balance between life and studies.
- Shout 85258: If you need someone to talk to, Shout offers free, confidential 24/7 text support. Simply text SHOUT to 85258, and a trained volunteer will help you through whatever you’re facing.
If you are unsure of where to go for additional support, feel free to email me with confidence at and I can signpost you to the right place.
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