They live in halls with hundreds of their peers and enjoy what most believe is a carefree life of occasional class and near-constant holidays, but even university students need someone to check in on their mental health every now and then.
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For students in the halls of residence at the Australian National University, R U OK? Day couldn't be better timed, according to Rowena Wedd, deputy head at Ursula Hall. Wedd will host her first R U OK? event on Thursday.
''As with all the halls of residence on campus, we look towards promoting positive mental health messages amongst our students ,'' she said. ''We've had a very stressful lead-up to the holidays with a lot of exams and assessments, and I just thought it was a good message to put out there, to promote our residents to look out for one another, and ask the question about are you OK?''
Despite public perceptions of student life being smooth sailing compared to the rigours of the real world, Ms Wedd said it was actually a high-pressure time for many.
Between the financial pressures of making ends meet and balancing work, study, and everyday life, many students also stress about their academic performance, which can sometimes lead to breakdowns. But, particularly for students in residential halls, help isn't far away.
''There's 200 people in one building that share a dining room, and you live with them for a whole year, and you get to know people, and you're more likely to, if you don't see your neighbour for two or three days, you're asking about them,'' Ms Wedd said.
Ursula Hall will host an R U OK? lunch on Thursday, to which staff and students from all the halls are invited. They'll make posters, have a talk about the importance of looking out for each other's mental health, and give out lucky door prizes and lolly bags. R U OK? Day events will be held around the country.
R U OK? chief executive Janina Nearn said because suicide was the leading cause of death for Australians aged 15 to 44, it was more important than ever to start conversations about mental health. ''This R U OK? Day, we're encouraging Australians not only to start a conversation that counts with someone who might be feeling overwhelmed, lonely or stressed, but also to be ready to give their time, show empathy, listen without judgment and help their peers identify possible next steps. Also make sure you follow up,'' she said.
For more information, visit ruokday.com. For support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or beyondblue on 1300 22 46 36.