Suicide rates nearly double among UK university students to reach all-time high, study finds

A new report has found that universities are ‘overwhelmed’ by the increase in mentally ill students seeking help

More pressures on students and increased awareness of mental health issues, resulting in more sufferers coming forward, has contributed to the rise (Getty)

A new study has found that more students than ever are killing themselves due to financial and academic pressures.

The number of students with mental health problems at university has risen to its highest level with a record 15,395 students disclosing their mental health issues in their first year – a fivefold increase in a decade.

The investigation by think tank IPPR has revealed the scale of university students suffering from depression and anxiety with 134 students taking their own lives in 2015, according to The Guardian.

Experts put the rise down to more pressures on university students as well as an increase in awareness about mental health making it easier for students to come forward.

However, the study found that university services are “overwhelmed” by the increase.

“Universities must be ready to support these students, including, where appropriate, through referral into specialist care. But the extent of support is currently too varied, and many university services are overwhelmed by the level of demand,” Craig Thorley, an IPPR senior research fellow, told The Guardian.

The report found that the number of students who were using counselling services, or on the waiting list, was as great as 26 per cent in some universities.

Mark Salter, a spokesperson for the Royal College of Psychiatrists, said: “We know that the Government needs to do much more.

“Suicide is preventable … without proper resourcing and funding, we will not reduce suicide in England.”

The Samaritans offers support 24/7. Call them on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org or visit their website