Wellbeing

In this pod, ‘Staying Mentally Healthy at Uni’, Dr Milissa Deitz offers an overview of the importance of looking after yourself while you’re at university, and what to do (and who to talk to) if you’re feeling stressed, unwell or overwhelmed.

Whether you’ve recently left school or are returning to study after a significant break, starting university is a huge change. And like all transitions, experiencing a big change can make you more vulnerable. Sometimes just being aware of that and taking time to be a bit kinder to yourself is a good start. Some students will find university challenging simply because there are different academic expectations, while others will have the added challenge of living out of home for the first time. What we, your lecturers and tutors, want you to know is that we realise this, and we want you to recognise that everyone is facing a total readjustment. It’s not just you, we promise.

There are several things you can do to help improve your wellbeing and ward off stress, anxiety and loneliness. The first is to try to stay on top of your work by attending your classes, balancing your schedule, and keeping an eye on any tendencies to procrastinate. The second is to work your way through the skills development resources we’ve provided here. The more you know, the easier study and completing assignments will be. The third big tip we have is to try to spend as much time as possible on campus. This means not just coming for class but using the library, the gym and sports facilities, meeting other students for lunch and coffee, and just generally hanging out. This will help you get to know people (which helps with loneliness) and it tends to also mean you’re more likely to use the university’s resources (people and services) when you need them. This brings us to the last tip: if you need help, please make sure you seek it out. There are lots of people on campus (online and offline) who are available to help you. Don’t push on alone. Talk to a tutor, course advisor, counsellor, another staff member, a trusted friend or family member, or a medical practitioner. The sooner you seek help the quicker you’ll start to feel better. Please see the resources below for further guidance and support.

WELLBEING RESOURCES

Western Sydney University

Mental health and wellbeing at Western Sydney University
Western Sydney University mental health resources
Western Sydney University counselling service
Western Sydney University ecounselling
Disability Services (for injuries, mental health and physical challenges that can impede your studies)
Creating a study space

Getting help outside the uni

Reach Out
The Fridge
Beyond Blue
Alcohol and drug information

24-hour helplines

Salvation Army Counselling Service
1300 363 622

Lifeline
131 114

NSW Mental Health Line
1800 011 511

Suicide Call Back Service
1300 659 467

Domestic Violence
1800 656 463

NSW Rape Crisis
1800 424 017

24 hour line for international students
1800 735 807

Transcultural Mental Health Service
1800 648 911