by Nilanka Goonetillake
The exams are approaching, multiple essays are due and then there is that part time job that is supposed to fund you till you graduate. Perhaps you have difficult family circumstances, relationship issues or simply overwhelmed by everything happening around you.
At one stage or another, most of us go through difficult times. Stress is a normal part of life. But when it starts to weigh you down, there is no shame in speaking to someone. Sometimes a listening ear, whether a friend or a family member, could prove to be more helpful than you imagine. If you are facing difficulties talk to someone, seek support and remember that you don’t need to go through it alone.
Melbourne University offers a number of free services to students, helping them cope with the many stresses of life:
Free Individual Counselling
The University offers a professional service to assist the Melbourne University students with problems they may be facing. Appointments can be made by phone 8344 6927 during normal business hours. They can help you explore your options to make difficult decisions, and provide a listening ear that is both confidential and understanding.
Ask Counseling
If you are finding it difficult to wait for an appointment, there are other options. One of the options is the Ask Counselling Service: http://blogs.unimelb.edu.au/ask-counselling/about/. This provides you with an opportunity to ask questions and also learn about similar issues faced by other students. Why not visit the website and explore?
Information Resources
The information and resources web page provides an extensive list of commonly faced issues and possible helpful tips as to how to cope with difficult circumstances. You can access this via the site http://cms.unimelb.edu.au/studentservices/counsel/resources.
Urgent Needs
If you require urgent assistance call LifeLine on 13 11 14. Please see http://cms.unimelb.edu.au/studentservices/counsel/resources/mh_training/phone for other services.
University can be stressful at times. But always remember to have plenty of sleep, eat a well balanced diet, exercise and take care of yourself. Take time to relax and always keep your good friends around you to support you through those hard times.
