This information is for those in crisis and in need of urgent support.
If you are feeling very distressed and the pressures upon you seem overwhelming, you may start to experience a sense that things cannot get better. People do sometimes experience thoughts that life is not worth living and can think about – or start to consider- self-harm and suicide. If you are having thoughts of harming yourself, you can find information and links to support through the charity PAPYRUS. If you're concerned you may not be able to keep yourself safe, please seek immediate help - there will be a way that things can get better. You may also need of immediate help if you are having other thoughts that seem frightening or that may put you or someone else at risk.
A&E are available for all health crises, including those related to mental health. A&E departments across the UK have dedicated mental health liaison teams. It can feel quite daunting going to A&E, but the mental health staff there will give you time to talk through your difficulties and will aim to find a plan that will work for you.
Do not hesitate to contact emergency services (999) or attend A&E if you feel like you are at immediate risk or feel unable to keep yourself safe.
You can find your nearest hospital here. The nearest A&E unit to The University of Manchester is Manchester Royal Infirmary.
For more information on crisis support please also see: Help in a crisis | Mental Health Support Team | The University of Manchester
All emergency services (police, fire, ambulance) can be contacted by calling 999.
For urgent help on campus you can contact University Security on 0161 306 9966. Security staff are first aid trained and can provide assistance in the event of an emergency or other incidents.
Alternatively, use the SAFEZONE app which will alert Security to an emergency or the need for first aid support.
If you need help whilst staying in University halls of residence please contact your ResLife team.
If you are feeling very low, distressed and/or are experiencing suicidal thoughts and you need to talk to someone out of hours, you can call any of the following services:
If you are not in crisis but need to talk to a counsellor more immediately please also consider Spectrum Life: In the moment support | Mental Health Support Team | The University of Manchester
The Recovery Lounge is a free service in the city centre located on Cross Keys Street (M4 FFY) that offers in-person and over-the-phone support to anyone living in Manchester or under a Manchester GP who's in need of practical and emotional support, signposting, and/or distraction techniques during mental health crisis. For more detail: Manchester | Recovery Lounge | Mental Health Crisis | Turning Point
An out-of-hours friendly and supportive community space open to anyone from Manchester, Bolton, Salford or Trafford who is experiencing a mental health crisis. The aim is to offer support and advice from qualified Mental Health Practitioners in a relaxed and comfortable environment, avoiding long waits in Emergency Departments. For more detail see: No. 93 Crisis Cafe | Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS FT
BlueSci at Night offers a friendly and supportive community alternative to traditional crisis services. BlueSci at Night provides support when you are in emotional distress, coping strategies that prevent crisis reoccurring and help you take steps toward building the life you want. For more detail: Bluesci at Night | Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS FT
The Samaritans (www.samaritans.org) have an informative website including things that might help when times are tough.
Students Against Depression (www.studentsagainstdepression.org/) This website contains useful resources in helping to understand and cope with a range of mental health difficulties.
Qwell provides free, safe and anonymous online mental health support whenever you need it: www.studentsupport.manchester.ac.uk/taking-care/qwell/
If you are concerned for someone you know who may be at risk to themselves or may be extremely vulnerable, visit: Worried about someone | Mental Health Support Team | The University of Manchester.
You can downloand the Universty's SafeZone app to quickly get in touch with University security services in case of emergency or if in need of medical assistance whilst on campus.
The Mental Health Support Team offers confidential help to all students and staff seeking support. If you are struggling with your mental health, talking to someone else can really help.
Whilst not an emergency service, you can report acts of harassment, discrimination or hate via Report and Support. Report anonymously or report and get support from an advisor.