Suicidal Ideation

Suicidal thoughts and feelings can also be known as suicidal ideation. These thoughts are when someone doesn’t want to be alive anymore or thinks about ending their life.

It is normal to feel as though things are a bit too much sometimes or to feel low. However, if those feelings start taking over and you are unsure of what to do, you may think that the only way out of this is to end your life.

It is ok to share these thoughts and worries with others as there are many people who understand and can support you. There is always a reason to live even when things are feeling too much. And always remember you deserve support and we here at Loughborough College are here to help you figure this out.

 Sometimes it can be difficult to notice when you’re dealing with suicidal feelings, particularly if they have been building up over a period of time. Some signs of suicidal ideation to watch out for are:

  • losing interest in daily life
  • always thinking about or talking about death
  • deep depression and sadness
  • struggling to eat or sleep
  • feeling worthless
  • self-harm

How can I help myself?

When you are experiencing suicidal ideation, some things to do to look out for yourself are to:

  • Know that you deserve to be heard – Sometimes it can be scary talking about what is going on out of fear nobody will understand. But do not let that stop you from speaking to someone as your feelings are valid and real and you deserve support.
  • Talk to someone you trust – If you’re struggling with these thoughts, don’t keep it to yourself. Talk to someone you feel comfortable with and if this seems scary at first, plan out what you would like to say.
  • Ask an expert for advice – If you struggle to talk to someone you know, there are helplines such as the Samaritans who will help give you support and guidance. Additionally, if these thoughts have been lasting a long time, make an appointment to speak to your GP.

Where can I receive support?

Samaritans – offers support 24/7, call the helpline on 116 123.

Papyrus – Offers confidential advice and support for young people struggling with suicidal thoughts.

How can we help?

Learner Welfare Drop-Ins

The Learner Welfare Team offers a range of drop-ins including confidential 1-1s, mixed drop-ins and wellbeing walks with our therapy dogs. We will also offer specific drop-ins including Sexual Health Drop-Ins and drop-ins for our Looked After Children (LAC) learners.

Please see the current timetable below:

Day Time Type Room Time Type Room
MONDAY 8:30-9:30am Early bird Drop-in 1909 Social Space 12-1pm 1:1 Drop-in B009
8:30-9:30am Sexual Health Drop-in S006
TUESDAY 12-1pm Inclusion Drop-in S006 3-4pm Afternoon Drop-in 1909 Social Space
3:30-4:30pm Sexual Health Drop-in S006
WEDNESDAY 8:30-9:30am Early bird Drop-in The Hub 1:30-2:30pm 1:1 Drop-in H101b
THURSDAY 11-12pm 1:1 Drop-in S006 12:30-1:30pm Sexual Health Drop-in S006
3:30-4:30pm Afternoon Drop-in The Hub
FRIDAY 8:30-9am Dog walk and talk Meet at 1909 Social Space 12:30-1:30pm Sexual Health Drop-in S006
3-4pm 1:1 Drop-in H101b
Group sessions
1:1 sessions
Sexual Health

Early Bird Drop-in/Afternoon Drop-in – No appointment necessary, drop by for a chat with the Learner Welfare Team and mingle with other students.

1-1 Drop-in – Confidential 1-1 session (10-minute slots) with a member of the Learner Welfare Team. No appointment necessary.

Sexual Health Drop-in – Make an appointment on the Student Dashboard to get advice and support from our Wellbeing Mentors.

Dog Walk and Talk – Enjoy a short walk around the outskirts of our campus with our therapy dog.

Inclusion Drop-in – No appointment necessary, drop by for a chat with our Inclusion Officers.

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.