What do you need for optimal wellbeing? Take some time out for yourself 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 27 to Friday 31 March – Mind Matters offers helpful information, strategies and resources to enhance your mental health and wellbeing.
How will you get involved this Mind Matters Week?
Throughout the week, we’re running some seriously inspiring events! From opportunities to connect with other students and an amazing forum to have positive conversations about mental health, you’ll be challenged, moved and stimulated.
- Grab your free journal and pen at your campus library! Our Wellbeing Ambassadors will be on site and keen to help you learn more about mindfulness.
- Try a DUSA Smoothie Bike or score some herbal tea! If you’re at Burwood or Waurn Ponds, keep an eye out for these great activities.
- Join our free batyr mental health sessions. We’re holding an online workshop for all students, plus a face-to-face session for international students at Burwood, to show you how other students have managed their mental health experiences in positive ways and to equip you with tools that can help you make the most of your experience at Deakin.
- Join a Walk’n’Talk group – take a short stroll across campus before or in between class and connect with other students.
- Download the free DeakinWELLBEING app (you could win a merchandise pack)! DeakinWELLBEING will help you find small yet effective ways to connect, be active, take notice, keep learning and give back to others – all integral and evidence-based ways we can boost our own and others’ wellbeing.
- See our online student art exhibition. Be inspired and challenged by the incredible work from your fellow students!
- Attend a THRIVE online session – boost your study habits, communication skills, motivation and stress management techniques in these free online workshops.
- Try a free DeakinACTIVE online wellbeing class. We’re holding regular meditation, yoga and pilates classes that you can join from the comfort of home.
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 also features 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 – check it out!