• Charles Sturt staff and students come together to raise awareness and support each other for University Mental Health Day on Tuesday 4 May

Charles Sturt University staff and students connected over a coffee to start a conversation about mental health.

University Mental Health Day on Tuesday 4 May was acknowledged by universities in Australia and New Zealand as a day to bring the community together to focus on positive mental health.

Charles Sturt Interim Vice-Chancellor Professor John Germov said mental health is a university-wide priority.

“Improving mental health requires a sustained focus, and we appreciate the importance of taking steps to support the mental health of our students and staff,” he said.

“University Mental Health Day highlights the importance of starting conversations, checking on peers practicing self-care.”

Staff and students united over a cup of coffee across all the campuses, took a break and had a conversation while sharing their wellbeing and self-care tips.

The University is encouraging these conversations to take place to build a supportive environment and to make mental health a priority, while reinforcing the resources available and the everyday strategies everyone can adopt to stay well.

Charles Sturt student Mr Patrick Saul said that days like University Mental Health Day and other recognition days show people that they are not alone in their struggles.

“It is about recognising that everyone has stresses and problems in their life, and that help is available with whatever they are going through. It also gives people an idea of what services and support are available,” Mr Saul said.

“It’s a friendly reminder to check in with those around you and to start a conversation – mental health matters every day of the year.”

Fourth-year veterinary science student Miss Jess Baldwin said there are alarming statistics for veterinary students suffering from mental health issues.

She said having a day such as University Mental Health Day allows people to openly talk about topics that might be bothering them.

“With our degree being so demanding, it can be overwhelming so it’s good to spark a conversation about mental health,” she said.

During the event staff and students raised money for Lifeline Australia.

The University has a range of resources and services for the wellbeing of staff and students on its website, these are also accessible to the public.

Join the conversation online and share your self-care tips by using the hashtags #iusemyvoiceto and #sharemyno1.