As the University community settles into Semester 2, significant work is underway to raise awareness of the mental health and wellbeing support available to students at Flinders University.
The Student Success survey (October 2018) showed that 24 per cent of Flinders’ students consider wellbeing, belonging and community as the most important factor in their success at University – second only to graduating with a degree. Students said they consider University support for their mental health an important part of this.
Flinders provides a variety of free services designed to support students’ mental resilience and wellbeing, to help them achieve success at University and beyond. However, an issue can be not knowing about these services, or how to access them.
To help address this, a student mental health and wellbeing communication strategy has been developed.
The aim of this evolving strategy is to increase student awareness of, and engagement with, the support services available, through targeted and timely communication. It also aims to drive greater collaboration across the University regarding mental health and wellbeing initiatives, to ensure a coordinated, consistent approach.
Whether working in a student-facing role or behind the scenes, all staff have a role to play in the mental health and wellbeing of students. Below is a list of the student support available all year-round.
Counselling Services
Flinders University provides a free, confidential counselling service for students experiencing personal issues that are impacting on their study or wellbeing.
After Hours Crisis Support Line
Students can access a dedicated after hours crisis support line for confidential counselling support between 5.00pm to 9.00am weekdays and 24 hours a day on weekends and public holidays. Students can contact this service by calling 1300 512 409 or texting 0488 884 103.
Health Services
The Health Service is a fully accredited medical centre, staffed by male and female doctors and nurses.
Disability Services
Flinders provides a free, confidential service for students with a disability. Disability refers to any impairment, learning difficulty, medical condition or disability that impacts on a student’s access to education.
Flinders University Student Association
The Flinders University Student Association (FUSA) represents the rights and interests of students. Services include academic advocacy, financial support and welfare assistance.
Student Assist
The Student Assist team at FUSA provides a student advocacy and financial service to help students with a range of academic, administrative and welfare related issues.
International Student Services
The International Student Services (ISS) team supports onshore international students in their study and social life at Flinders, including coordinating an international student specific orientation program. ISS Advisors are also available one-on-one to discuss study, accommodation, welfare and visa enquiries.
Yunggorendi (Office of Indigenous Strategy and Engagement)
The Office of Indigenous Strategy and Engagement provides general support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. This includes academic, pastoral and financial support and advocacy, counselling, scholarships, a culturally safe study space, social activities and more.
Oasis
Oasis is a Student Community Wellbeing Centre focused on supporting the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of students, so they can achieve academic and personal success.
Flinders also runs a series of free health and wellbeing events for students throughout the year. These are communicated through a variety of channels including the student newsletter Ping, the Ask Flinders Facebook page and the Health, Counselling and Disability blog.
Any staff interested in learning more about the student mental health and wellbeing communication strategy, or finding out how to get involved, can email student.experience@flinders.edu.au.