Mind Matters
What do you like to do to improve your mental health?
A healthy mind is just as important as a healthy body for your wellbeing and study success. So, it’s really important to talk about mental health so you know the difference between thriving and suffering from poor mental health. Poor mental health can have wide-reaching consequences, but you can turn things around with the right advice and support.
As part of our Student Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy, we’re committed to providing activities and resources designed to help you improve your mental health, feel good about yourself and your studies, and connect with others in the community. Join us at an event during Mind Matters to check-in with yourself and your mental state – think patting therapy dogs, art classes and relaxing walks in nature with friends!
Mind Matters Student Art Exhibition
An annual exhibition showcasing artwork by Deakin students about mental health. View artworks from past years or submit your own artwork to the 2026 exhibition.
Support services and resources at Deakin
Your mental health matters and support looks different for everyone. Explore options that feel right for you.
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Free and confidential counselling
Book an appointment with a Deakin counsellor or ask an anonymous question online.
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Managing social anxiety podcast
University can be challenging for students with social anxiety: learn about how you can cope.
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Perfectionism podcast
Perfectionism is the constant drive to meet unrealistically high standards: learn how to shift your mindset.
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Get the DeakinWELLBEING app
Develop better ways to manage stress, improve your resilience and build healthy habits that will assist you to achieve your personal best.
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Lived and Learned
Hear from Deakin students about how they overcame difficult experiences with their mental and physical health and learnt how to thrive.
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Health and Wellbeing topics
Read our self-help articles and discover a range of advice and resources on topics such as anxiety, homesickness and stress.
External support services and resources
If you’d prefer to talk to someone outside Deakin, these services offer free, confidential support.
Lifeline
Free 24-hour, 7-days-a-week telephone counselling for crisis support and suicide prevention.
PHONE: 13 11 15
Other services: online support chat available 7pm–4am, 7-days-a-week on the Lifeline website.
QLife
Anonymous and free LGBTIQ+ peer support and referral for people in Australia. 3pm–9pm, 7-days-a-week.
PHONE: 1800 184 527
Other services: online support chat available 3pm–9pm, 7-days-a-week on the QLife website.
Beyond Blue
24/7, free, and confidential mental health support for anxiety, depression, and suicide prevention.
https://www.beyondblue.org.au/
PHONE: 1300 224 636
Other services: online support chat available 3pm–12am, 7-days-a-week on the Beyond Blue website.
eheadspace
Free online support for young people aged 12–25.
https://headspace.org.au/online-and-phone-support/
PHONE: 1800 650 890 (3pm–10pm, 7-days-a-week)
Other services: online support chat available 3pm–10pm, 7-days-a-week on the eheadspace website.
13YARN
One-on-one phone yarning opportunity with trained Lifeline Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander crisis supporters for mob who are feeling overwhelmed or having difficulty coping. 24-hours, 7-days-a-week.
PHONE: 13 92 76
Need emotional support after hours?
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Call1300 239 002
- 0485 829 309