Mind Matters Week starts now, so take a moment for you
Mind Matters Week has officially begun, and it’s all about helping you slow things down, reset, and find small ways to feel more balanced during trimester.
There’s no pressure to do everything. Think of it as a chance to take a break, try something new, or simply give yourself permission to step away from the busy for a while. And if things have felt a bit heavy lately, you’re not alone in that.
Many students are navigating similar pressures, even if it doesn’t always look that way on the surface. That’s why Lived and Learned exists – a collection of real stories from Deakin students sharing their experiences of mental health, hope and resilience.
Sometimes, reading someone else’s story can remind you that support, growth and change are all possible.
A simple place to start
If you’re not sure where to begin, you might like to start small, like right from your phone. The DeakinWELLBEING app is designed to support you through the ups and downs of uni life, with quick, practical tools you can use anytime.
Whether you’ve got five minutes between classes or need a reset after a long day, it’s there when you need it. And for Mind Matters Week, there’s a little extra incentive to get you started!
All you need to do is download the app, register with your Deakin email, fill in the competition enty form and you could go in the draw to win win a 2024 Gen 11 Kindle (RRP A$197).
Find what you need this week
Looking to unwind? 🍵
If you’re after something calming, you can join a THRIVE session online to build practical time management skills and feel more in control of your week.
On campus, you can also drop by the library for mindfulness sessions, tea and a quiet space to reset, or spend some time with our therapy dogs for a well-earned mood boost. You might also like to get creative at a Mind Matters creative wellbeing event – with colouring, affirmation cards, Calm Kits and snacks to enjoy at your own pace.
Feel like moving your body?🚶
You can join Deakin Active for yoga or pilates online from wherever you are – an easy way to stretch, breathe and reset.
If you’re on campus, there are also in-person yoga sessions (excluding Warrnambool), as well as Walk ‘n’ Talk sessions where you can get some fresh air, meet new people and clear your head.
Need to slow things down? 😮💨
Sometimes the best reset is to simply pause and be present.
At Burwood, you can try a nature-based walking meditation to reconnect with the moment, while at Waterfront there are art workshops like abstract art for relaxation and mindful still life. You could also find low-pressure spaces across campuses to take a break and do something just for you.
👉 Explore the full Mind Matters program and find what works for you.
Explore the Mind Matters Student Art Exhibition
Sometimes, it’s hard to put how you’re feeling into words. That’s where creativity can step in.
The Mind Matters Student Art Exhibition showcases work by Deakin students exploring mental health, identity and wellbeing through visual art, photography, writing and more.
You can explore the exhibition online anytime, or see selected pieces displayed on campus throughout the week and at Mind Matters events. It’s a chance to see things from someone else’s perspective, reflect on your own experiences, and maybe even feel a little more understood.
If you feel inspired, you are also invited to submit artwork to be considered for the 2027 exhibition, whether that’s visual art, photography, writing, digital work or another creative form.
Pictured: Ethereal Convergence by Shenelle
Remember, support is always available ❤️🩹
Our Mind Matters page 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 and exercising your body and mind – check it out!
We also offer a range of health and wellbeing services, including free counselling, 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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