Self Harm

Self-harm is when a person causes damage or injury to themselves intentionally.

There are a number of reasons why people self-harm. Some of these include:

trying to cope, manage or express emotions and feelings
trying to feel in control
to provide a sense of relief
a form of punishment
to make others aware of what is happening

It is important to remember that there is a difference between self-harm and suicidal ideation. Not everyone who self-harms will consider taking their own life but there is an increased risk.

How can I look after myself?

Recognise your triggers – identifying the triggers in some cases may enable you to avoid them in the future. You might find it helpful to keep a record of triggers, detailing how you are feeling and how you managed this. You might be able to identify a pattern of physical cues which arise prior to wanting to self-harm. This could include an increased heart rate, irritability, sweating and fidgeting. If you are able to recognise this, you can try to put strategies in place as a distraction.

Try the delay tactic – When you feel there urge to self-harm, try and distract yourself. This might be by talking to someone else, going for a walk, or engaging in an activity. You might find that the want to self-harm lessens over time. Repeat this as needed.

Distracting yourself – you may find that distracting yourself can help, this can be anything such as exercise, listening to music, breathing techniques, mindfulness etc. hit cushions, listen to music etc.

Talk to someone- try talking to a friend, relative or professional.

Where can I receive support?

Seek help from your GP

NHS Central Access Point – If you need mental health support, you can call this service on 0808 800 3302 24 hours a day.

The Mix – How to cope with a self-harm relapse.

Harmless – Self-harm and suicide prevention organisation

If you are in immediate danger, please call 999 or present at your local A&E.

How can we help?

If you would like to access support and arrange a meeting with our HE Welfare Team, please email HE.Welfare@loucoll.ac.uk.

We also offer the following weekly during term-time:

HE Common Room:

Start the day right – Tuesdays 8am-9:30am
Cake and Chat – Fridays 2pm-3:30pm

Room TBC

HE Drop-In – Thursdays 2pm-3:30pm

HE Health Assured:

You can get support, information and advice through HE Health Assured which is offered independently of the college. You can also access free counselling through HE Health Assured and download their free app ‘Wisdom.’ Call 0800 028 3766. This line is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

You can utilise the chaplaincy service by:

Telephone: 01509 223741

Email: chaplaincy@lboro.ac.uk

Instagram: @lborochaplaincy

Mental Health First Aiders

We offer a Mental Health First Aider (MHFA) service where students are able to call the Mental Health First Aid phone available Monday-Friday 08:30-16:30 if they feel they need someone to talk to. Our staff will support you with various issues such as academic pressure, bullying, wellbeing support, panic etc.

Please call 07483 956433 or 07483 956434 if needed.