You may have noticed a change in a student’s motivation, engagement with their studies, or mood. Maybe they're making decisions that you believe are not in their best interests. Maybe they just don't seem their usual self.
Contacting LSBU’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Team
If you're worried about the mental health and wellbeing of an LSBU student, you can let us know by emailing studentwellbeing@lsbu.ac.uk
We will always take your concerns seriously and respond appropriately. We will not usually share any information with you about an LSBU student without the student's specific consent.
In some situations, we may get in contact with a student's Emergency or Trusted Contact - you can find out more about this here: Emergency and Trusted Contact Guidance.
You can read more about how the Mental Health and Wellbeing Team support students here: What does the LSBU Student Mental Health and Wellbeing Team do?
External support
In an emergency where there are immediate safety concerns, please contact emergency services by calling 999.
You can also encourage them to seek support:
- GP support - GPs can provide initial advice and treatment and refer you on to specialist services.
- Talking Therapy – you can self-refer for free Talking Therapy in your local area using this link: NHS talking therapies - NHS (www.nhs.uk).
Supporting Some Else’s Mental Health: A Step-by-Step Approach
1. Choose the Right Time and Place
Timing and environment are crucial when initiating a conversation about mental health. Choose a private, quiet, and comfortable setting where the person feels safe and free from distractions.
2. Express Concern Without Judgement
Begin the conversation by expressing your concern in a non-judgmental and compassionate manner. Use "I" statements to avoid sounding accusatory. For example, "I've noticed you've seemed really down lately, and I'm worried about you" is more supportive than "You never seem happy anymore."
3. Listen Actively
Listening is one of the most powerful ways to support someone. Allow them to share their thoughts and feelings without interrupting or offering advice. Show that you are paying attention through nodding, maintaining eye contact, and using verbal affirmations like "I see" or "That sounds tough."
4. Validate Their Feelings
Acknowledge their feelings and experiences without minimizing or dismissing them. Phrases like "That must be really hard for you" or "I can see why you feel that way" validate their emotions and show that you understand their perspective.
5. Avoid Giving Unsolicited Advice
While it's natural to want to fix the problem, unsolicited advice can sometimes feel dismissive. Instead, ask how you can help. Phrases like "What can I do to support you?" or "Is there anything you need from me?" empower the person to guide the support they need.
6. Encourage Them to Access Support
Encourage them to seek support if they haven't already.
7. Take Care of Yourself
Supporting someone with mental health issues can affect your own sense of wellbeing. Ensure you are also taking care of your own mental health by seeking support from friends, family, or external services if you feel this may be helpful.
The Mental Health and Wellbeing Team offer a space for students to talk through whatever’s going on, and to help you understand the resources, strategies and services which might be helpful for you. You can book an appointment with a Mental Health and Wellbeing Advisor via your MyAccount profile. For more information, see this FAQ: How do I book an appointment with the Mental Health and Wellbeing team? - LSBU MyAccount.
See these FAQ's for further information:
How do I raise a safeguarding concern and access support?
What should I do in an emergency situation?
What is Report and Support?
