University life can be an incredible journey, but it is also a time of significant pressure. Between academic demands, financial stress, adjusting to a new culture, and the isolation of being away from home, it is completely normal to feel overwhelmed.

If you are struggling, please know that you are not alone. There is a robust network of professional, confidential, and free support services available to you in Australia. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness, and it will not negatively impact your student visa or your academic standing.

If You Need Immediate Help (Crisis Support)

If you are in immediate danger or experiencing a life-threatening mental health crisis, call 000 for emergency services (police, ambulance, or fire).

For 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention:

• Lifeline: Call 13 11 14 or text 0477 13 11 14. They provide 24/7 confidential crisis counselling and suicide prevention services.
• Suicide Call Back Service: Call 1300 659 467. A free service for people who are suicidal, bereaved by suicide, or caring for someone experiencing suicidal thoughts.
• Kids Helpline: Call 1800 55 1800. Specifically for young people aged 5–25, offering 24/7 private and confidential counselling.

Free & Confidential Support Services

These services are available to all students, including international students, regardless of your visa status:

• Beyond Blue: Call 1300 22 4636 or use their 24/7 online chat for support with anxiety, depression, and stress.
• Headspace: Call 1800 650 890 or visit their website for youth-focused counselling, wellbeing programs, and online support for ages 12–25.
• ReachOut: Provides free, anonymous online chat with trained support workers for students aged 16–25.
• 1800RESPECT: Call 1800 737 732 for 24/7 support if you have been impacted by sexual, domestic, or family violence.

On-Campus University Resources

Most Australian universities provide dedicated, free mental health services. These services are confidential and operate independently of your academic record.

• University Counselling Services: Check your university’s “Health and Wellbeing” or “Student Support” website. You can often book an appointment online without a GP referral.
• Peer Support Programs: Many universities offer peer-led groups where you can talk to other students who understand the pressures of university life.
• Wellbeing Support Lines: Some universities, like ANU, have 24/7 dedicated support lines for their students. Check if your university offers a similar service.

Navigating Health Services as an International Student

If you are an international student, your Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) can help you access professional long-term care:

1. Visit a GP (General Practitioner): A GP is your “first point of call.” They can assess your situation and create a Mental Health Treatment Plan, which allows you to receive subsidized or discounted sessions with a psychologist.
2. Check Your Insurance: Your OSHC provider (e.g., Bupa, Medibank) may cover a significant portion of psychology or psychiatry sessions. Always check your specific policy or call your provider to confirm what is covered.
3. Ask Izzy: Use the Ask Izzy website or app to find free or low-cost counselling, housing, and mental health services in your local area.

Practical Tips for Maintaining Wellbeing

• Routine Matters: Balance your study schedule with regular sleep, healthy meals, and physical activity.
• Stay Connected: Don’t isolate yourself. Even small interactions with friends, community groups, or classmates can significantly lower stress levels.
• Set Boundaries: It is okay to say “no” to extra shifts or social events if you are feeling burnt out. Protecting your energy is part of being a successful student.
• Speak Up Early: Don’t wait until a crisis point to seek help. If you notice your sleep is disrupted, your focus is slipping, or you feel consistently down, talk to a counsellor or GP early.

Disclaimer: This information is provided for general guidance only and does not constitute medical or professional psychiatric advice. If you are in crisis, please contact emergency services (000) or one of the crisis helplines listed above immediately.