Be inspired and prioritise your mental health and wellbeing this Mind Matters Week
How are you settling into T1/S1? While we hope you’re enjoying the start of the first study period for 2024, we know that being a uni student isn’t always easy.
Research suggests university students may experience a range of mental health challenges, and this isn’t really surprising when you think about it – uni often involves juggling many personal and professional commitments alongside your studies. It can be a lot to cope with for anyone, especially if you’re just starting out!
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. So, whether you’re someone who experiences a mental health issue, or you’d just like to feel better about yourself, we’re here to help you make small changes that prioritise your overall health.
That’s the motivation behind Mind Matters – Deakin’s mental health and wellbeing movement. Running throughout Week 4 – from Monday 25 to Thursday 28 March – Mind Matters Week offers you helpful information, strategies and resources to enhance your mental wellbeing.
What’s on this Mind Matters Week
Throughout the week, we’re running some seriously inspiring events which will give you opportunities to connect with other students and spark your imagination.
- Take it easy with Lo-Fi in the Library! Immerse yourself in a moment of calm with silent disco headphones, mandala colouring and journaling opportunities at this session.
- Explore the art around your campus – join us for a captivating Art Tour/Walk’n’Talk session around campus, where our friendly student ambassadors will discuss the significance of each work.
- Flex your imagination as you craft your very own Positivity Pot – we’re giving away FREE plant pots for you to unleash your artistic flair with colourful paint pens! We’ll also adorn these with a positive affirmation of your choice to serve as a daily reminder of your strength and resilience.
- Make a mood board – this interactive pop-up event is designed to uplift your spirits and foster emotional expression! Swing past for free tea and biscuits as you get creative.
- 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.
- Download the free DeakinWELLBEING app! 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.
- Attend a THRIVE online session – boost your study habits, communication skills, motivation and stress management techniques in these free online workshops.
- Join a Walk’n’Talk group – take a short stroll across campus before or in between class and connect with other students.
- Listen to our Managing Social Anxiety podcasts – each episode features helpful advice presented by our very own Deakin counsellors.
See the full details and register now for events via our Mind Matters webpage!
To encourage you to slow down, enjoy the present moment and get your imagination firing, visit the incredible Online Student Art Exhibition featuring works of art inspired by, or reflecting on, mental wellbeing. You can view the digital art gallery at any time, which cover themes of isolation, trauma, helplessness, depression and anxiety – but also peace, perspective, healing, resilience, hope and love. Pictured: Heartbreak by Gurleen Kaur.
Support is always available
Our Mind Matters page also links out to a range of health and wellbeing content to help you find more ways to be balanced, including staying connected, getting proper sleep, exercising your body and mind, and understanding the link between food and mood – check it out!
We also offer a range of health and wellbeing services to support you as a student.
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.
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