University Mental Health Day 2026
For a lot of us, seeing the news each day prompts us to reflect on how difficult the world has become for so many people. Global unrest has far-reaching impacts, whether it be from the rising price of essentials, concern about war and hostilities or consequences of accelerated climate change.
Some people may be personally impacted, while others may be showing concern from a distance. Most people will be experiencing some negative reactions about our current social and political environment, but there are ways to manage those responses and stay focused on things like study.
Connecting with others to support your wellbeing
University Mental Health Day 2026 theme is “human connection”. It’s not just about catching up with mates but also about building and maintaining strong communities to take meaningful action to support one another.
Here are some ways that you can engage human connection to support your wellbeing and the wellbeing of others:
Personal actions for your own wellbeing
- Talk to people you love and trust. You might share your worries or seek distraction if you are limiting your media intake.
- Use your free will to step back from media to protect your peace, giving you space to reset and focus on other things.
- Reflect on your actions and change what doesn’t serve you or others. You can make small, manageable changes or big moves, it’s your choice.
- If you need solitude, reflection, prayer or quiet time, find a space to do so. Check out La Trobe’s Spaces For Everyone webpage for options.
Act for yourself and act for others
- Find or build a community based on shared, meaningful values and goals. Communities are built on mutual support, acting together to create social change without competition or hidden agendas and a sense of knowing that by supporting others, you are also being supported. You could start by joining a club or society at La Trobe to find your type of people.
- Listen to minoritised voices, especially those most affected by global issues or who are often silenced. Consider what they’re asking for and how you can support their rights and safety in a way that is manageable for you.
- If you feel like you have more to give, you could create or join social movements for change – these are groups that ask corporations and people who hold power to stop being complicit in wider social issues. Social movements can be as simple as boycotting a brand that is causing or funding harm, joining a protest or rally or writing a letter/ email to your local member of parliament (MP).
Find supports
If you or someone you know is impacted by global events, local stresses or other concerns, you might seek support. There are many types of support available and may include:
Mental health and wellbeing supports:
If it is an emergency (you or someone else is in danger), call 000
La Trobe University Wellbeing Services
Talk to one of our staff members about anything that’s concerning you and find a range of advice and techniques to support your wellbeing
University Crisis Line (Call 1300 146 307 or Text: 0488 884 100)
Confidential, after-hours mental health support for students, offering immediate counselling support and crisis intervention when Wellbeing Services are closed after 5pm and on weekends.
Australia-wide mental health organisation – the website includes information, services and support and tools to support others
Australia-wide web and phone service that can give immediate advice and support, from everyday concerns all the way to crisis support.
Financial or essential resource support:
La Trobe University Wellbeing Services
La Trobe University can provide financial counselling and legal counselling services
La Trobe University Food Bank (Feed La Trobe) – Bundoora
La Trobe University Food Pantry – Other campuses
Find essential food, hygiene and home items on campus. Funded and run by La Trobe Student Union (Bundoora Food Bank) and La Trobe Student Association (other campuses Food Pantry)
National Debt Hotline (phone: 1800 007 007)
Australia-wide web and phone service that connect you with free financial advisors. You don’t have to be in debt to access this service – you can find someone to give you advice and information to help manage your finances.
Online catalogue of urgent supports, including emergency food, housing, money, work and health and wellbeing services. Easy to search and find what you need.
International advocacy:
Find your foreign embassy in Australia
Your foreign embassy can help you navigate concerns you may have for people overseas, like friends and family. They can also sometimes help with emergency assistance if you are on a visa in Australia.
Information on how to seek asylum or apply for protection visas
Community legal centres offer a range of legal services and may be able to assist with navigating international legal concerns. Community legal centres usually offer services free or low cost.