Frequently Asked Questions

-Worried about a Friend/ another Student?

Isn´t it disloyal to report my friend´s behaviour?

• No, it is not disloyal. Professional support is ultimately the best thing for a person who is ill. Early intervention can prevent a situation from becoming worse.

What about their studies? Won´t they get thrown out? They´re really worried about their coursework and exams

• The University supports many students with complex difficulties. Sometimes students need to take a break from their studies & return when they are better able to study. If the University knows there are problems, deadlines, exams etc can be postponed. All this will be discussed with the student though.

The responsibility is really weighing me down. I am having trouble keeping up with my work

• You need to talk to someone - a GP, counsellor, tutor, chaplain/ religious adviser, staff in Student Services. They may be able to help you set boundaries for yourself and your friend, have a break and reschedule work. Remember you can support yourself without breaking confidentiality if you don’t want to.

But won´t the University tell their parents? They really don´t get on

• The Data Protection Act and University’s policies mean that parents are very rarely contacted without a student’s permission

I want someone to do something but I don´t want this student to know I have told anyone

• If this can be facilitated, it will be. Discussions with you will be treated confidentially and every effort made to find an appropriate resolution.

My friend is behaving in a bizarre way, am I in danger?

• At all times your safety is the priority, but it is rare for someone experiencing mental ill health to hurt others. But they can be vulnerable to ill-treatment and prejudice from others.