There’s no health without mental health: take some ‘you’ time this Mind Matters week
At Deakin, we believe that mental health and wellbeing should be a priority for all of us, not just those who experience mental illness.
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. We’re all about creating ongoing positive change and finding ways to support ourselves and each other.
That’s the motivation behind Mind Matters – Deakin’s mental wellbeing movement. Running throughout Week 4 – from Monday 1 to Friday 5 August – Mind Matters offers helpful information, strategies and resources to enhance your mental health. We’re also focusing on the importance of connection and the power of hope. You’ll have the chance to express your fears and dreams in creative ways, and reach out to others to learn from their experiences – or just to have a chat or a laugh.
‘The best way out is always through’
This line from poet Robert Frost beautifully encapsulates the notion that mental health isn’t a destination but a process.
Research indicates that rates of distress and vulnerability to mental health problems are higher in university students than the general population. When you’re at uni, you’re experiencing lots of changes all at once, often without your normal support systems close by. On top of this, you may also have financial or personal pressures to manage along with your study. It can be a lot to cope with!
So, whether you’re someone who experiences anxiety, depression or another mental health issue; you’re keen to create healthy and sustainable habits that boost your wellbeing; or you’d just like to feel better about yourself, we’re here to help you make small changes that prioritise your overall health.
‘Art is the highest form of hope’
German painter Gerhard Richter’s quote sums up our approach to Mind Matters. With the link between creativity and mental health well established, we’re hosting an incredible student art exhibition featuring works of art inspired by, or reflecting on, mental wellbeing. Don’t miss viewing these artworks, which cover themes of isolation, trauma, helplessness, depression and anxiety – but also peace, perspective, healing, resilience, hope and love.
The creativity doesn’t end there! You can also bring your own experience of mental health to life by making an artwork on the spot. Our craft table will have all the supplies you’ll need – and it doesn’t matter if you’re not a great artist! Just have fun and express yourself.
Our Hope Wall is the place for you to display your artwork, or you can write down an inspirational message, share a story that’s meaningful to you or read what others have added.
To help get those creative juices flowing, we’ll be handing out free hot soup and crusty bread – *yum* – to keep you warm while you view the exhibition or mull over your own creation.
So, when and where is all this happening?
- Monday 1 August, 11.30am – 1.30pm: Burwood at Student Central, and Waurn Ponds at Student Central/DUSA Lounge.
- Tuesday 2 August, 11.30am – 1.30pm: Waterfront at Gallery 2, and Warrnambool at Brother Fox.
At all campuses, you’ll also be able to view the art exhibition throughout the week until Thursday 4 August. To help keep our community safe, we strongly encourage you to wear a mask in these communal spaces.
Can’t make it to campus? View the digital art gallery at any time and contribute to our virtual Hope Wall until 5pm, Friday 5 August.
But wait, there’s more!
There’s a range of other Mind Matters activities you can try to help you focus on your health and wellbeing, including:
- Joining a Walk’n’Talk group – take a short stroll across campus before or in between class and connect with other students.
- Attending a THRIVE online session – boost your study habits, communication skills, motivation and stress management techniques in these free online workshops.
- Submitting an artwork for our October art show – entries open next week, so stay tuned for details!
Support is always available
We offer a range of health and wellbeing services to support you as a student, including the DeakinWELLBEING app to help you keep your life in balance and develop healthy habits.
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.
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.
Our Mind Matters page suggests more ways to be balanced and in control, including staying connected, getting proper sleep, exercising your body and mind, and understanding the link between food and mood.