It’s OK to not be OK: hear from other students and mental health experts on ways to navigate tough times
Did you know that of every 30 students in Australia, seven are dealing with a mental health issue? Only two will reach out for support, leaving five suffering in silence. We want this to change and are here to help.
We want to give you the tools to speak out about mental health, access help if you need it, and start positive conversations with your friends and loved ones.
As part of our Trimester 1 Mind Matters program, we’ve partnered with batyr Australia to deliver free workshops that are open to students of all ages. Batyr is a preventative mental health organisation created and driven by young people. Named after a talking elephant from Kazakhstan (true story!), batyr aims to give a voice to the ‘elephant in the room’ – mental health.
In the 60-minute sessions, sponsored by our health and care partner Bupa, you’ll:
- hear a safe and impactful story from one of our storytellers about their lived mental health experience
- interact with the amazing batyr facilitators
- find out how to support yourselves and your mates with batyr’s ‘five tips’
- learn more about the support services available to you at Deakin and externally.
We’ll be offering an online session for all students in which you’ll be encouraged to join with your camera on and interact with the facilitators and content (please note this session will not be recorded). We are also holding a face-to-face session in Burwood for international students during which we’ll feature speakers and specific information to help you maintain optimal wellbeing as you transition into uni life in Australia.
Online session (all students)
Thursday 30 March, 4–5pm via Zoom
REGISTER NOW
Burwood Campus (international students)
Tuesday 28 March, 12.30–1.30pm
Burwood Corporate Centre, Level 2 (see reception on arrival)
REGISTER NOW
Mind Matters is Deakin’s mental wellbeing movement event. We’re shining a light on mental health to make it a priority for everyone, not just those who experience mental illness.
Running throughout Week 4 – from Monday 27 to Friday 31 March – Mind Matters offers helpful information, strategies and resources to enhance your mental health. See the full program and get involved.
Support is always available
We offer a range of health and wellbeing services to support you as a student. For urgent help 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.