USQ supports Mental Health Week

In a bid to recognise the importance of mental health, the University will celebrate Mental Health Week from 9 - 15 October.

The annual event is a Queensland Health initiative and aims to raise awareness of mental health issues. USQ will host a number of Stress Less Day events at each campus and is inviting staff and students to take part in the activities.

USQ Student Services Psychologist, Ms Joanne Boyes, said that these types of events allow students to see that mental health issues can affect anyone and it’s alright to discuss it openly.

'At this time of year we know that students are overwhelmed with their studies as well as juggling jobs, families and life in general. Good mental health depends on you looking after your physical health, maintaining contact with friends and family and taking time out to relax,' she said.

'The Stress Less Day events are being supported by Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) Worldcare and Beyond Blue.'

The Student Guild and USQ Toowoomba Student Services and will host a free Halal BBQ in the quad on Wednesday 12 October from 12-2 pm. The event is sponsored by OSHC Worldcare and will encourage students to keep healthy, happy and connected.

USQ Springfield will host a Managing Stress workshop conducted by Diana Cogill from Student Services on Wednesday from 12-1 pm. An information stand will also be located in the Foyer of Building A during the week providing information on strategies to help students manage their busy lives and study commitments.

Joanne said USQ Fraser Coast had already celebrated Mental Health with a free BBQ, cake and information stalls and a free Body Balance Workshop and dance stretch class.

'USQ Student Services offers many services to assist students including personal and career counsellors across all campuses. Toowoomba Student Services houses disability support, scholarships and financial assistance and as well as help with equity issues and these services are-available to all USQ students.

'There is also a free GP service at the Toowoomba campus for USQ students as well as accommodation support.'

 More information on USQ's Mental Health Week activities and student resources can be found on the Student Services website.

Contact Details:
Connie-Louise Rego, USQ Media, +61 7 4631 2977