Support and wellbeing

• As a student of one of our federation members, you have access to a comprehensive range of support services. Each member institution offers dedicated student support. You can find contact details for the student support services at your university or college here: Support Services

• Our student residences are staffed with dedicated Wardens and Resident Advisors who provide guidance, a listening ear, and assistance in navigating university support services. They are available to help with personal, social, and well-being concerns, ensuring you have access to the support you need.
• For immediate assistance, contact your residence reception at any time and request to speak with the staff member on duty. Alternatively, you may schedule a conversation with your Residence Warden for further support.

As a distance or flexible learning student at Lumina Open University, you have access to the TalkCampus peer support network, available 24/7, all year round. This safe space offers judgment-free support and guidance from trained volunteers and clinicians, ensuring you always have someone to talk to.

• Download the TalkCampus app for iOS or Android and register with your Lumina Open University email address.
• Verify your student status through the email confirmation sent to your university email.
• Agree to the Community Guidelines and policies, then start engaging with the community.

Additionally,TalkCampus provides a crisis support line for urgent assistance.

Visit your Student Portal to learn more about TalkCampus and explore resources designed to support your well-being.

Your course tutors, supervisors, and academic coordinators are committed to supporting you throughout your academic journey, offering guidance on both academic and personal matters.

A Student Wellbeing and Disability Support Adviser is available to provide a confidential and supportive environment where you can discuss any challenges affecting your studies. This includes personal or emotional difficulties, mental health concerns such as anxiety or depression, and conditions like dyslexia or long-term health issues.

Additionally, students can access an initial six hours of counseling, fully funded by the institution, to ensure they receive the necessary support.

For further assistance, please visit the student support center on campus.

As a student at Lumina Open University, you have access to a range of academic and personal support services designed to enhance your learning experience and well-being. Your Personal Advisor is available to guide you through your academic journey, offering advice on both academic matters and life as a student.

The Student Services Team operates with an open-door policy, assisting with practical concerns such as accommodation, healthcare, immigration, and financial support.

Additionally, Student Welfare Officers organize workshops and campaigns throughout the year to promote student well-being.

Other available support includes:

• A 24/7 helpline for emergency assistance, medical support, and emotional well-being.
• Access to university-funded counselling services for personal and academic challenges.
• Confidential psychological support, available via phone or online chat.
• An anonymous peer support network where students can seek guidance and share experiences in a safe space.

• Sometimes, feelings of stress, anxiety, or sadness arise due to challenging situations such as loneliness, grief, family conflicts, relationship breakups, academic pressure, relocating, or adjusting to university life.
• Other times, these emotions may surface without a clear cause.
• While it’s natural to want to push away difficult feelings, they often indicate a deeper need for self-care, reflection, or support.

• Keep in mind that these emotions are temporary.
• Confide in a trusted friend or family member about your feelings.
• Seek support from one or more of the services mentioned above, based on your location and place of study.
• Your GP or primary care doctor can also provide guidance on options such as medication and therapy.
• Students Against Depression offers valuable self-help resources — but remember, you don’t have to face things alone. Help is always available.

• Experiencing suicidal thoughts is more common than many realize, yet people often keep them to themselves.
• Such emotions can be intense and distressing, creating a sense of isolation if you feel there’s no one to confide in.
• Listed below are various helplines and support services where you can reach out and express what you’re going through.

If you have a concrete plan to harm yourself or feel you may act soon:

• Dial emergency services (999, 112, or 911, depending on your location).
• Immediately visit the nearest hospital emergency department for assistance.

Create a safety plan by committing to wait before acting on distressing thoughts. Remove harmful objects and avoid alcohol or drugs. Reach out to a trusted person or professional for support. Distract yourself with music, movies, or exercise. Write down coping strategies and keep them accessible. Use mental health apps like StayAlive or crisis resources like Samaritans. In an emergency, call 999, 112, or 911.

• All the professionals, services, and helplines mentioned above are available to support you if you’re concerned about someone else.
• They can provide guidance on the next steps you can take, and in some cases, they may be able to directly assist the person you’re worried about.

• The only way to know if someone is having suicidal thoughts is to ask.
• A person experiencing suicidal feelings may feel isolated, afraid, and ashamed, struggling to reach out for help. They might desperately need support but fear asking for it.
• Starting the conversation can make a difference. It reassures them that they are not alone and that it’s okay to talk about their feelings.
• Saying the word “suicide” does not encourage it—it opens the door for support and understanding.