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The Marlborough Science Academy

Need Some Support or Advice?

Who can help? need some advice?

We know it isn’t always easy for young people to express or communicate any difficulties they may have or be experiencing. All of our students can approach any member of staff that they would feel comfortable to talk to. All year groups have a pastoral team that are here to support and direct students in the right direction.

Mr Griggs as the Safeguarding lead at our school is always available to offer advice and guidance for staff, students and parents alike.

Mrs Aylward our Intervention and Inclusion Officer, is here to support and sign post students’ parents and staff to enable all to have access to guidance, support and information regarding many topics that can impact on young people's learning and wellbeing.

'happy students learn better'

There are numerous websites that can offer many different forms of support and advice, why not follow them on social media.

studentminds.org.uk
youngminds.org.uk
nspcc.org.uk
childline.org.uk
kooth.com

There is also more information on the Marlborough webpage: e-Safety

These are self help sites if you are in need of emergency assistance call 999.

If you want to live a happy life, tie it to a goal, not to people or things.

Depression

Perhaps you have noticed that a friend, family member or fellow student is stressed or anxious, even suicidal?

Depression is more common than you might think, affecting one in ten of us in any one year. If you recognise the signs in yourself or someone else, there are clear steps you can take right now to help. Depression affects everyone in different ways, but trends to look out for in your friends include:

  • A persistently sad, anxious or generally low mood.
  • A loss of interest in life and activities.
  • Decreased energy, struggling to complete daily tasks.
  • Irregular sleeping patterns - sleeping little, excessively, or without routine.
  • Increased tearfulness and feelings of worthlessness.
  • Poor concentration.
How to support a friend

Be clear about your limits.
Before you step into a situation, be realistic with yourself and know your own limits. There are many ways in which you can aid a friend but depression is still best dealt with by a professional. Don't take on more than you can handle but offer practical, ongoing social contact and connection, which provides an important buffer against depression.

Encourage professional help.
There are lots of options for professional help to choose from as suits your friends' preferences, including the university health centre, local GP surgery or counselling service.

Communicate your concern.
Isolation and lack of support are key factors in depression. Letting the person know you are worried could be a key first step in breaking that isolation. Don't be surprised if their initial response is abrupt or rejecting, persevere in showing you care.

Check suicidal thoughts.
If you are at all concerned about this, don't be afraid to ask the person directly. Contrary to popular belief, this is unlikely to 'put ideas in their head' but may well instead offer them the relief of being allowed to talk about a taboo subject. See our support directory for services that you can contact if you are worried about a friend's safety.

We all have mental health poster