Something on your mind? Get expert online advice with Ask Counselling
Many of us will be glad to welcome the start of a new year – one that is hopefully free of the challenges and uncertainty we’ve faced during the pandemic. As we commence 2022, we encourage you to make your personal wellbeing as much of a priority as your studies.
If at any time you start to struggle with assignments, personal problems or your mental health, remember that you’re not alone. Many of your peers are likely feeling the same way or wondering how to cope.
Deakin is here to support you with a range of help, including one-on-one counselling if you’d like to talk with someone. We understand that this can seem daunting, so a great first step is to visit our Ask Counselling blog.
How does Ask Counselling work?
Ask Counselling is an online resource that offers advice on emotional and psychological issues from Deakin’s Counselling and Psychological Support (CAPS) team of student mental health experts. You can either browse existing questions and answers or post your own question for a personalised reply.
The best thing about the blog is that it’s real questions asked by current Deakin students. Anything you read about on Ask Counselling has been a problem faced by someone like you – a student feeling overwhelmed, alone or unsure.
What kinds of questions can I ask?
In a word: anything!
There’s heaps of topics to explore, including anxiety, loneliness, family problems, online study and exams. They’re all categorised by topic, so you can easily find the area you’re interested in.
You could start by reading the existing discussions and then post your own question if you want specific advice. A CAPS counsellor will respond within 72 business hours with a tailored reply to your issue.
Will my name be published?
No, your name won’t be published. We do publish the questions and answers on Ask Counselling so that others can benefit too – but it’s all anonymous, so no one will know what you’ve asked.
What if I want to talk to someone one-on-one?
Ask Counselling doesn’t replace personal counselling. If you feel ready and you’re located in Australia, we recommend you speak to a Deakin CAPS counsellor. Our team of highly skilled psychologists and social workers offers free and confidential support to Deakin students.
Book online now to arrange a real-time telehealth appointment – you’ll speak to your counsellor over the phone or via Zoom. We also have some specialist counsellors available for particular students – you just need to select your relevant cohort when you book:
- First Nations students can see Kate Towart, Social and Emotional Wellbeing (SEWB) Counsellor
- School of Nursing and Midwifery students can see Brenda Nyoni, SoNM Counsellor
- School of Medicine students can see Jacqueline Payne, SoM Counsellor.
Ask Counselling is not a 24-hour service for students in crisis. If you need immediate emergency help, you should contact LifeLine or SuicideLine now.
We also recommend you check out our eWellbeing Centre for some awesome digital resources that may help you to feel better, both physically and emotionally.