2 May 2023

Join us to inspire change this University Mental Health Day

Life isn’t always easy – and sometimes neither is being a uni student. At Deakin, we want to acknowledge these challenges, embrace imperfection and shine a spotlight on mental health. We’re all about creating ongoing positive change and finding ways to support ourselves and each other.

Tuesday 2 May is University Mental Health Day (UMHD). Mental health is something that affects us all. The broad spectrum of mental health encompasses more than just dealing with any problems – it’s also about helping you feel your best and accepting yourself, whatever your situation.

You may be someone who experiences anxiety, depression or another mental health issue. Perhaps you’re keen to create healthy and sustainable habits that boost your wellbeing. It might be as simple as wanting to just feel better about yourself. Whatever your mental health experience to date, you can make small changes each day to put your wellbeing front and centre.

Please know that you’re not alone. Students from Deakin, across the country and around the world face similar pressures – from family expectations and financial stress to academic difficulties and personal problems. But we see you, hear you and care for you. 

Here, we asked Wellbeing Ambassador and Bachelor of Social Work student Nicole Scott how they identify and manage symptoms of stress, and work towards wellbeing in their life.

How do you know when you are stressed – what gives it away?
When I’m feeling stressed, I get body aches, I start to get snappy at people when I wouldn’t usually, and I spend less time doing my hobbies and more time doom scrolling.

Are there any ways you’ve tried to manage stress in the past which you feel weren’t ultimately helpful? What strategies have you tried that have been beneficial?
I have found different techniques have worked at various times in my life. Most recently I have found scheduling breaks from study, prioritising walks in nature and creative outlets help me to manage stress. When lots of assignments are due, I still try to fit these in but in more achievable ways. Instead of going on a hike in the forest, I’ll go grab a coffee and sit at Eastern Beach before class.

What advice would you offer other students who may be feeling stressed or overwhelmed, based on what has worked for you?
Know that you are not alone, a lot of university students if not all experience stress and overwhelm, university is a challenging time! You’re allowed to feel stressed. I recommend trying out techniques and keep trying until you find what works for you, there’s something out there for everyone!

Hear how some of our other Deakin Wellbeing Ambassadors manage the uni-life balance: watch our UMHD video on Deakin Life Instagram now!

What’s happening for UMHD 2023

Mental health and wellbeing should be a ‘normal’ thing to talk about. This UMHD, we’d love for you to start thinking about your wellbeing, so here’s some ways you can get involved:

• Share your story – use the hashtag #UniMentalHealthDay to share how you look after your own wellbeing, how you support others or what inspires you. It’s also a great gift to share your personal experience with other students, so contact us if you’d like to be featured on Deakin Life.
• Join a Walk’n’Talk group – take a short stroll across campus and connect with other students in these weekly sessions run by our Wellbeing Ambassadors. Start the day with a clear mind – and you’ll be back in time for class!
• Attend a THRIVE online session – boost your study habits, communication skills, motivation and stress management techniques in these workshops based on identified student needs and established psychological theories. There’s four sessions left for T1.
• Download the DeakinWELLBEING app – keep your uni life in balance and develop healthy habits with the app that’s your one-stop-shop for all things health and wellbeing.
• Try some yoga, meditation or pilates – DeakinACTIVE is running free online sessions during until the end of T1.

Beyond UMHD: how to keep focusing on your wellbeing

There’s some fantastic organisations, resources and tools that can show you how to achieve the best possible mental health. Check out VicHealth for helpful resources to encourage healthy mental wellbeing, Beyond Blue for a ‘stay well’ plan or the Black Dog Institute for a self-care planning fact sheet and template.

Some simple everyday habits can also help you to stay more balanced and in control:

• Stay connected: Get involved in uni events and activities, join DUSA and check out our peer mentor programs. 
• Make sleep a priority: proper sleep is so crucial to both your physical and mental health. Here’s some ways to sleep better.
• Exercise your body and mind: exercise is one of the simplest ways to stay positive, so include some ‘active time’ in your study routine. You could also download the Smiling Mind app or try meditation with a Deakin counsellor. 
• Understand the link between food and mood: Research shows a link between diet and mental health, so it’s important to eat healthy food as often as you can. Check out our student-led healthy eating hub, Nourished @ Deakin, for inspiration!

We also encourage you to access professional support whenever you need extra help. We offer a range of health and wellbeing services to support you during your time at Deakin.

For urgent support outside of business hours, contact Lifeline (13 11 14) or SuicideLine (1300 651 251) straight away. They’re available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.