New research suggests high prevalence of suicidal thoughts among students

Mind comments on a new survey by NUS, which has found 20 per cent of higher education students have or have ahd a mental health problem, and 13 per cent have experienced suicidal thoughts.

A new survey conducted by the National Union of Students (NUS) has found 20 per cent of higher education students consider themselves to have a mental health problem, while 13 per cent have experienced suicidal thoughts.

1,000 students were surveyed and a massive 92 per cent of respondents identified as having had feeling of mental distress, including feeling down, stressed and demotivated.

Paul Farmer, Chief Executive of Mind, said:
"This new research demonstrates the scale of mental health problems among students. We are particularly concerned that more than 1 in 10 students surveyed had experienced suicidal thoughts during the time they’ve spent at their current place of study. Despite the high prevalence of mental health problems and stress among students, many people are not seeking help, perhaps because of the stigma that can surround mental health problems.

Higher education institutions need to ensure not just that services are in place to support mental wellbeing, but that they proactively create a culture of openness where students feel able to talk about their mental health and are aware of the support that’s available. Opening up to friends and family can help those feeling stressed or anxious, but anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts or consistently feeling down may have an enduring mental health problem, so it’s best they visit their GP. Nobody should suffer alone."

View the story on BBC News online.