On the 24th of July (24/7) it is Samaritans Awareness Day. It’s on this day to remind people that they are available 24/7. Throughout July, Samaritans will also be running their awareness-raising campaign called Talk to Us. They will be holding events at their branches to highlight that they are there day and night for people struggling to cope.

You can support the campaign by helping raise awareness on social media by using the hashtags #TalkToUs #SamaritansAwarenessDay.

---

How can Samaritans help?

By providing a safe place to open-up, Samaritans allow people the chance to stop bottling up their emotions. Many people feel troubled by their emotions and may feel that talking about them is a sign of weakness. Samaritans help combat this by providing a judgement free service.

We never choose when to have mood dips, and it can happen during an unconventional time, which is why the 24/7 helpline is there. No matter the time, Samaritans are always there.

Being a student means having to deal with stress from many places. This can come from university applications or a hectic social life. Regardless, it’s never a good idea to bottle up how you feel.

---

How can Host help?

We want you to get everything you want out of student life. This should be the most exciting part of your life to date, and we will do everything we can to help that.

Student life can be an emotional whirlwind. That’s why we work hard behind the scenes to create a home that is calm, stress-free, and free from the pressures and worries of the outside world. Exactly how a home should feel.

A busy life can mean it’s important to look after yourself. We work to ensure that you maintain both a physically and mentally healthy lifestyle. Whether its our Breakfast mornings, or our on-site facilities such as fitness suites and social areas, we are here to support you.

---

Listening

If you’ve been in a position where someone has confided in you and you are unsure how to react, you’re not your own. Listening can be just as difficult as talking to someone. Below are some general tips to provide help.

• Repeating the last few words back to the person talking will make them feel listened to. It will also keep you on track and allows a pause for both of you to gather your thoughts.
• Avoid putting it into your own words. Studies show that direct repetition works, even if it feels unnatural.
• Provide non-verbal cues that you’re paying attention. These include eye contact, nodding and attentive posture.
• Pay attention to non-verbal cues. Body language and tone of voice can be good indicators.
• Ask questions. This will help you understand and will make the other person feel listened too.
• Minimise distractions. It can be off-putting to talk to someone when you’re being interrupted.
• Control your emotions. You may want to react strongly when something is said, but this may encourage the talker to disengage.

---

Samaritans are available 24 hours a day if you need support. You can read our blog about keeping in touch with your mates here.

Host work tirelessly to help support the well-being of all of their residents. Find out more.