Two University of Salford students say remote learning has led them to need more support than ever before.

 

Credit: Pavven Kaur

Both have found working online challenging for their mental health.

Student Anam Javed said: “University feels optional and it’s easier to fall into the trap of falling behind than last year.

“We’re in a bubble that’s lowered my mood and I’ve developed anxiety.

“There were moments I felt suicidal.”

Thankfully her family pulled her back from the suicidal thoughts she was experiencing.

Listen to the full interview with Anam Javed below:

 

According to Youngminds.org: “Sixty nine per cent of respondents described their mental health as poor now that they returned to education.

“Forty per cent of respondents said that there was no counsellor available to support students.”

Fellow student Shiraz Saeed finds participating in online classes more intimidating.

Therefore, his feelings of nervousness have made him less likely to ask questions creating a “knowledge gap”.

Saeed said: “It’s harder to maintain grades since online learning.”

“We’re in a bubble that’s lowered my mood and I’ve developed anxiety…there were moments I felt suicidal.” – Anam Javed, University of Salford student

Saeed suggested that students would benefit from more interactive sessions with lecturers.

However, he does feel supported by university as the lecturers explained the shift to online learning.

Watch the full interview with Shiraz Saeed below:

Support at Salford University

Salford University offers a range of support from a Counselling & Wellbeing Service to Rafiki’s Peer Support, a new peer support listening service, for more info email:          ussu-dropincentre@salford.ac.uk.

Support services for all

Other external services are available such as Campaign Against Living Miserably, dedicated to preventing male suicide.

Papyrus HopeLine is a confidential support service for those experiencing thoughts of suicide.

It also provides a service for those who have concerns about someone who could be having such thoughts.

Anxiety UK also aims to relieve those with anxiety and anxiety-based depression through a range of services, including virtual therapy, phone calls, and texting service.

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