September
Theme: Mental Health and Wellbeing
September is often a month of transition for our university community, and whilst the new opportunities that the month brings can be exciting, for many it can also present daunting or unknown challenges that can impact our wellbeing.
With that in mind, the theme for September has been chosen as ‘Mental Health and Wellbeing’, to raise awareness of the wellbeing support available to our university community whenever they may need it.
We know that between induction activities and the beginning of teaching, this month can be a busy time for many, but we recommend taking the time to familiarise yourself with the variety of wellbeing support available to you by exploring the links provided on this page.
Whether you need it now or later down the line, QMU is here to support you.
Suicide Awareness Day - 10th September
On 10th September, we recognise Suicide Awareness Day, providing an opportunity to raise awareness of suicide and encourage conversations to check in with each other.
We support not just World Suicide Prevention Day itself, but we also encourage all members of our QMU Community to talk to one another all year round because conversations can make a real difference and save lives.
There are a number of local support charities and services available to all our community. We draw attention to these in the ‘Quick Links’ section, and more importantly, you can find information on what to do if you or someone you know is faced with a mental health emergency.
Urgent Support
Contact NHS 24 – Free phone: 111
Edinburgh Crisis Centre to discuss a mental health crisis
NHS Emergency Mental Health Assessment Service - 0131 537 6000
Contact a Samaritan – 116 123
Breathing Space Scotland - 0800 83 85 87
Edinburgh Night Line - Confidential Support for Students 8pm–8am term-time - 0131 557 4444
Quick Links
External Support for All
Togetherall - An online mental health support service
How to Improve Your Mental Health (Mind)
Self Help Support for Anxiety (NHS)
Staff Wellbeing Support
MCL Medics Employee Assistance Programme – offers a personal support service, including access to counselling and health and wellbeing support – Helpline: 0808 196 1441
Able Futures - Confidential ongoing support from a qualified mental health professional
Student Wellbeing Support
Student Services - Wellbeing Support
Louise Gill, Wellbeing Adviser - wellbeing@qmu.ac.uk
Dona Smith, Wellbeing Adviser for Paramedic Science Students - CWS@qmu.ac.uk
Key Dates
World Literacy Day – 8th September
World Suicide Prevention Day - 10th September
World Childless Week – 14th – 20th September
National Inclusion Week – 14th – 20th September
International Equal Pay Day – 18th September
International Day of Peace – 21st September
International Day of Sign Languages – 23rd Sept
Bi Visibility Day – 23rd Sept
World Deaf Day – 27th September
Religious Dates
4th Krishna Janmashtami (Hindu)
11th – 13th Rosh Hashanah (Judaism)
14th Ganesh Chaturth (Hindu)
15th Samvatsari (Jainism)
20th – 21st Yom Kippur (Judaism)
22nd Autumn Equinox/Mabon (Wicca/Pagan)
25th Anant Chaturdashi (Hindu)
25th – 2nd October - Sukkot (Judaism)