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At UNSW supporting student wellbeing through services, attention and care is our top priority.
University is an exciting time but also a period of transition and change. At UNSW we provide programs and counselling services to help improve your confidence and overall physical and mental wellbeing.
It’s OK to not feel OK. Spend time every day on your physical health, as well as your mental health. Do basic stuff and don’t forget to keep in touch with family!
If you start to feel overwhelmed, then talk to someone. Just having someone to listen to you can be very helpful.
Bonnie Lin - International Student
Bonnie's story
During the pandemic, when there were a lot of uncertainties, I felt overwhelmed. There were so many things that I was unsure about and all these uncertainties added a lot of cognitive burden.
I decided to contact the Psychology and Wellness team at UNSW. After hearing my concerns, the psychologist suggested options for support including weekly consultation and an online cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) program.
Connecting to an evidence based mental health program helped me to gain a better understanding of how to support my mental health. After attending the program, I started to realise how simple things, like exercise, mindfulness and gratitude, can improve my wellbeing. Also, I practised thinking more realistically, noticing and challenging some unhelpful thoughts when I felt worried.
At the same time, I received a ton of encouragement during my weekly consultations. Simply having someone to check in and celebrate small achievements really helped me to keep going on the right track.
Reaching out
Our Psychology and Wellness centre is dedicated to supporting you in your university journey. The centre offers 1:1 confidential appointments, and group sessions where you can speak to other students about topics such as your inner-voice, perfectionism, technology anxiety and improving your mood. Counsellors can refer you to specialist services and we offer 24-hour mental health support via after hours calls and text.
Making connections
One of the best things you can do for your mental health is to start making friends as soon as you get to UNSW.
Try joining one of over 300 clubs and societies at UNSW. Whether you have a passion for sport, cooking, game development, or creating business start-ups there is bound to be one for you.
UNSW Virtual Houses are another great way to meet new friends and boost your social calendar with epic activities and our annual calendar of events like Mental Health Month, wellbeing workshops, countless social events and dedicated initiatives to promote physical, mental and financial wellbeing.