Otago’s student support services’ annual University Mental Health Day Festival is being held on the Union Lawn tomorrow from 11-2pm. It will feature a range of activities including music, games, a BBQ and free flu shots.
A poster advertising the University Mental Health Day Festival on Tuesday, 7 May.
The Union Lawn will be extra festive tomorrow as Otago’s student support services put on their annual University Mental Health Day Festival.
Mental Health Support/Liaison at Student Health Services Phil Newman says the initiative, which was originally started by a UK student group, is a chance for students to get together, enjoy a range of activities, get a free flu shot if desired, and learn about what support services are available to them.
“The idea is to get students thinking actively about their mental health and wellbeing, rather than waiting until things go wrong. But, also, being aware there is support available if they do go wrong. There has been a massive increase in the incidence of psychological distress over the last 10 years and the biggest increase has been in the 14-24 age group.”
Festival activities (from 11-2pm) will include music, games, a BBQ and an "asking for a friend" question board.
“The board is where students can post any questions about their wellbeing anonymously and get replies from a variety of Uni support services. This will be in the Link right through the week.”
Students will also be able to get a free flu shot, which is something that can benefit both physical and mental health, Phil says.
“Getting the flu and feeling miserable can affect your mood, and if you miss classes or deadlines as a result this can increase stress and impact mood so staying physically well helps mental wellbeing and vice versa. And anyone getting the flu shot will get a sausage hand delivered from the BBQ and avoid the queue!”
- Kōrero by Internal Communications Adviser Laura Hewson
The "asking for a friend" question board is a chance for students to post any questions about their wellbeing anonymously and get replies from a variety of University support services. The board will be in the Link throughout the week.