How to Help a Student in Mental Health Distress

University life can be an exciting time of learning, growth, and new experiences. However, it can also come with stressors that significantly impact a student’s mental health. Academic pressures, social challenges, financial stress, and being away from home for the first time can all contribute to a student feeling overwhelmed and isolated. As a result, it’s essential for friends, family, and educators to be aware of how to recognize and support students in mental health distress.

Mental health concerns among students are more prevalent than ever, with anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions affecting a significant number of university students worldwide. If you’re worried about a student who seems to be struggling, knowing what to do can make a significant difference. This guide outlines seven practical steps to identify signs of distress, offer support, and provide effective resources—all while maintaining a compassionate and non-judgmental approach.

1. Recognize the Signs of Mental Health Distress

The first step in helping a student is understanding and identifying the signs of mental health distress. Some students might openly express their feelings, while others may show subtle behavioral changes. Recognizing these signs can help you act quickly and offer support when needed.

Common signs of mental health distress include:

• Changes in Mood: The student may seem unusually sad, anxious, irritable, or withdrawn. Noticeable mood swings or a lack of interest in activities they previously enjoyed can also be red flags.
• Decline in Academic Performance: If a typically engaged and high-performing student starts missing classes, turning in assignments late, or their grades begin to drop, this could indicate underlying mental health issues.
• Social Withdrawal: Avoiding social interactions, becoming isolated, or expressing a desire to be left alone could signal emotional distress.
• Changes in Eating or Sleeping Patterns: Eating significantly more or less than usual, struggling to sleep, or sleeping too much can all be symptoms of anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions.
• Physical Complaints: Frequent headaches, stomachaches, or unexplained physical symptoms may be linked to stress or anxiety.
• Expressions of Hopelessness: Comments about feeling worthless, hopeless, or not wanting to be alive are critical warning signs that should never be ignored.

2. Approach the Student with Empathy and Understanding

Once you’ve identified potential signs of distress, the next step is approaching the student in a way that feels safe and supportive. Choose a quiet, private space to have a conversation, ensuring the student feels comfortable and not overwhelmed.

How to start the conversation:

• Use open-ended questions like, “I’ve noticed you haven’t been yourself lately. How are you feeling?” or “It seems like you’ve been going through a tough time. Would you like to talk about it?”
• Listen actively and non-judgmentally. Allow the student to express their feelings without interrupting or offering immediate solutions.
• Acknowledge their feelings with empathy. Phrases like, “That sounds really difficult” or “I’m so sorry you’re going through this” can show you care and are willing to listen.

Avoid statements that may come off as dismissive, such as “Everyone feels like that sometimes” or “It’s not that big of a deal.” Instead, focus on providing a safe space for the student to share their thoughts and emotions openly.

3. Encourage Professional Help and Resources

While providing a listening ear is essential, it’s important to recognize when professional help is needed. Encourage the student to reach out to mental health professionals, counselors, or therapists, either through the university or external resources.

Suggestions for professional support:

• University Counseling Services: Most universities offer free or low-cost counseling services for students. Encourage them to book an appointment with a counselor who can provide a safe space to talk.
• Mental Health Helplines: Suggest helplines such as Samaritans, Mind, or Nightline for immediate, confidential support.
• Local Mental Health Clinics: Help the student find local clinics or therapists who specialize in working with young adults.

You can gently guide the conversation by saying, “Speaking to a professional can be really helpful when things feel overwhelming. Would you like me to help you find someone to talk to?” Offer to assist in booking appointments or researching available resources, but respect their autonomy if they’re not ready to take that step.

4. Create a Supportive Environment

Creating a supportive environment means ensuring the student feels safe, valued, and understood. Whether you’re a parent, friend, or educator, being a steady source of encouragement can have a positive impact on their mental well-being.

Ways to create a supportive environment:

• Be Patient: Recovery and coping with mental health issues take time. Avoid pushing the student to “get better” quickly. Instead, be patient and supportive throughout their journey.
• Offer Practical Help: If they’re struggling with academic work, consider offering help with study organization or suggesting they speak to a tutor. For personal struggles, offer to accompany them to counseling sessions or help them create a routine.
• Encourage Social Connections: Encourage the student to engage in social activities that are not overwhelming. Gentle invitations to join in on group activities, study sessions, or a casual coffee chat can help them feel less isolated.

5. Encourage Healthy Habits and Self-Care

Promoting healthy habits and self-care can help alleviate some of the stress and anxiety a student might be experiencing. Encourage the student to incorporate self-care practices into their routine, focusing on their overall well-being.

Self-care tips to suggest:

• Exercise: Physical activity releases endorphins that can improve mood and reduce stress. Even a short walk or a yoga session can be beneficial.
• Balanced Diet: Eating nutritious meals can have a positive impact on mental health. Encourage the student to avoid skipping meals or resorting to unhealthy options.
• Sleep Hygiene: Establishing a regular sleep routine and limiting screen time before bed can significantly improve sleep quality.
• Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices like deep breathing, meditation, or journaling can help calm the mind and manage anxiety.

Avoid placing too much emphasis on self-care as the sole solution to their problems. While healthy habits can complement professional help, they shouldn’t replace it.

6. Stay Connected and Follow Up

Once you’ve had a conversation with the student and encouraged them to seek help, it’s important to stay connected. Regularly check in to see how they’re doing and whether they’ve been able to access the support they need.

Ways to stay connected:

• Send a message or call to see how they’re feeling.
• Invite them for a casual catch-up over coffee or a walk.
• Continue offering support without being overbearing.

Remember, your ongoing presence can make a difference. Letting them know you’re there to listen, without pushing them to share more than they’re comfortable with, shows that you genuinely care about their well-being.

7. Know When to Seek Immediate Help

If a student expresses thoughts of self-harm, suicide, or poses a danger to themselves or others, it’s crucial to take immediate action. In such situations, prioritize their safety over confidentiality or fear of damaging the relationship.

What to do in a crisis situation:

• Stay with them and offer a calm, non-judgmental presence.
• Encourage them to contact a helpline or call emergency services (999 in the UK) if they’re willing.
• If they’re unwilling to reach out for help, contact a trusted professional, family member, or emergency services on their behalf.

Final Thoughts

Helping a student in mental health distress requires empathy, patience, and an understanding of the right resources and approaches. While it’s natural to feel unsure of what to do, your willingness to support them through difficult times can make a lasting impact.

By recognizing signs of distress, offering a listening ear, encouraging professional help, and creating a supportive environment, you can play a valuable role in their journey to better mental health. Remember that mental health challenges don’t define the student, and with the right support, they can overcome these difficulties and thrive.

For anyone involved—whether a family member, friend, or educator—being part of a support network can truly make a difference. Stay connected, stay compassionate, and be patient. You are not expected to have all the answers, but your presence and understanding can be a crucial lifeline during tough times.