Facebook
Skip to main content
Skip sub navigation

Deakin's Blue Tree Project

The Blue Tree Project aims to help spark important conversations about mental health.

Deakin's Blue Tree Project

The Blue Tree Project is a charity that strives to create visual reminders – in the form of painted blue trees – for us to talk to those around us about mental health and extend a helping hand to those who may be struggling.

Founded after the suicide of 29-year-old Jayden Whyte in 2018, the idea of the blue tree symbolism originated from a tree Jayden secretly painted on his family’s Mukinbudin farm in 2014 to surprise his dad. Tragically, Jayden did not receive the medical care he needed on the day he died, and Jayden’s best friend created the Blue Tree Project in his memory with the hope it would raise awareness for others who are struggling with their mental health.

While you’re with us at Deakin, we strive to fully support your mental, physical, emotional and spiritual health, so you can feel happy, well and supported. Please know that your health and wellbeing matters, and you are not alone – we are here to help if you need support.

Join us for a Blue Tree Project event to connect with others and learn more about how you can protect your own health and wellbeing, and support those around you.

This project is funded by Bendigo Community Bank at Deakin University and the generous donation of Blue Tree Solagard paint from Wattyl.

Community Bank logoWattyl logo

Blue Tree Project long banner

Blue Tree Project: tips and tricks to boost your mental health

MIND & BODY

mind-logo

Look after your body as well as your mind. Eat a well balanced diet, keep hydrated and get into a regular sleeping pattern.

TALK TO SOMEONE

Don't be afraid to talk to someone about how you are feeling. Reach out to a friend, family member, teacher or a professional.

EXERCISE

logo-exercise

Engage in regular exercise. Find something you enjoy. It is a great tool for improving mood and reducing stress and anxiety.

BREATHING

logo-lungs

Learn breathing techniques and find what works for you: box breathing, deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation. It's an easy way to help relax your mind and body.

SELF CARE

yoga-logo

Practice self care and recharge your battery. Relax, meditate, go for a walk and do something you love.

WRITE IT DOWN

logo-writing

Journal how you are feeling and what you're thinking. This can be a simple tool to help you understand what is going on within your mind and body.

ORGANISATION

logo-checklist

Set achievable goals. It's OK not to finish everything. Stay organised and on top of things. This will help to reduce stress.

GET OUTSIDE

Logo sun

Get some fresh air and get out in nature. It does wonders for your mental and physical health. Take the opportunity to invite a friend and have a conversation.

VISIT A TREE

logo small

There are now more than 1230 blue trees located around the world, so check the map to where else they are popping up.

Useful resources

After Hours Mental Health Support Line

Call 1300 239 002

Text 0485 829 309

This service offers students immediate relief and emotional support between 5pm–9am weekdays, and 24hrs across weekends, public holidays and University shutdown.

Please note this is not an emergency response service. In an emergency, please call Triple Zero (000), and if on campus, call Deakin Security on 1800 062 279.

External after hours support

Telephone counselling 13 11 14
Open 24 hours, 7-days-a-week

Support chat 
Open 7pm–4am, 7-days-a-week

Telephone counselling 1800 737 732
Open 24 hours, 7-days-a-week

Online counselling
Open 24 hours, 7-days-a-week

Telephone counselling 1300 22 4636
Open 24 hours, 7-days-a-week

Chat
Open 3pm–12am, 7-days-a-week

For ages 12–25.

Telephone counselling 1800 650 890
Open 9am–1am, 7-days-a-week

Chat 
Open 9am-1am, 7-days-a-week

One-on-one phone yarning opportunity and support with a trained Lifeline Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander crisis supporter for mob who are feeling overwhelmed or having difficulty coping.

Telephone counselling 13 92 76

Open 24 hours, 7-days-a-week

You may also be interested in

Last updated:
Page custodian: Student Services