Need to talk to someone? Our student mental health experts are here to help
The immense challenges 2020 has brought means that ‘mental health’ is a topic on everyone’s minds right now. COVID-19 has caused so much uncertainty and concern for many people this year, especially students. Over the past few months, you may have found it hard to maintain a positive mindset or look after your overall health and wellbeing. You may also have struggled to adjust to online study or just felt out of your comfort zone at university.
Even if you’ve generally been doing OK, it’s important to remember that looking after your mental health doesn’t just mean dealing with any problems. It’s also about helping you feel your best – whatever your personal situation.
While study is a great way to provide structure and focus, if you’d like some extra support there’s a range of services available here at Deakin. These are designed to guide you through uni, help you succeed at your studies and, most importantly, ensure you stay happy and healthy.
Even better, you can access them all from home!
Talk to a professional counsellor
If you want to talk with someone, we’re here for you. Our Counselling and Psychological Support (CAPS) team of highly skilled psychologists and social workers offers free and confidential support to Deakin students located in Australia.
You’ll have a real-time telehealth appointment – which means you’ll speak to your counsellor over the phone or via Zoom.
Make a telehealth appointment online or call your local Deakin Health and Wellbeing Centre to book a time.
Read about other students’ experiences
If you’re not ready to talk one-on-one, we recommend you visit our Ask Counselling blog, which is designed to help students experiencing a range of personal or study-related issues. It contains questions asked anonymously by students and answered by Deakin counsellors.
The questions are categorised by topics – such as anxiety, loneliness or family problems – so you can browse through these or ask your own question. You might find that other students are feeling the same way you are and learn some coping techniques.
Explore some digital resources
Make sure you check out the eWellbeing Hub in DeakinSync. This collection of informative and practical articles and apps will help you stay healthy, motivated, in control and happy while you’re studying at Deakin.
Access other support
For urgent support outside of business hours, please contact LifeLine (13 11 14) or SuicideLine (1300 651 251) straight away. They’re available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. In an emergency, call Triple Zero (000).
There’s also some fantastic organisations, resources and tools out there to help you achieve the best possible mental health:
- headspace has some great articles and resources if you just want to learn more about how you’re feeling.
- VicHealth has helpful resources to encourage healthy mental wellbeing during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Beyond Blue can help you develop a ‘stay well’ plan to manage individual symptoms and identify the best support services.