We know that being a uni student isn’t always easy, so it’s crucial that you look after yourself while you study and focus on your wellbeing as well as your grades.

If you find yourself struggling with study issues, personal problems or your mental health, asking for help is a positive act. Deakin offers several services, including one-on-one counselling if you’d like to talk with someone. But if this feels a bit daunting, a great first step is to visit our Ask Counselling blog.

How does Ask Counselling work?

Ask Counselling is an online resource that offers support and advice on emotional and psychological issues from our Counselling and Psychological Support (CAPS) team of student mental health experts. You can:

• browse existing questions and answers
• post your own question for a personalised reply.

The Ask Counselling blog is a resource of real questions asked by current Deakin students. Anything you read about on Ask Counselling has been a problem faced by someone like you – a student feeling overwhelmed, alone or unsure.

What kinds of questions can I ask?

You can ask anything. There’s a huge range of topics to explore, including anxiety, loneliness, family problems, online study and exams. They’re all categorised by topic, so you can easily find the area you’re interested in.

You could start by reading the existing discussions and then post your own question if you want specific advice. A CAPS counsellor will respond within 72 business hours with a tailored reply to your issue.

Will my name be published?

No, your name won’t be published. We do publish the questions and answers on Ask Counselling so that others can benefit too – but it’s all anonymous, so no one will know what you’ve asked.

What if I want to talk with someone one-on-one?

Ask Counselling doesn’t replace personal counselling. If you feel ready and you’re located in Australia, we recommend you speak to a CAPS counsellor. Our team of highly skilled psychologists and social workers offers free and confidential support to Deakin students.

Book online now – you’ll speak to your counsellor over the phone or via Zoom. We also have some specialist counsellors available for:

• First Nations students
• School of Medicine students
• School of Nursing and Midwifery students

Make sure you select the relevant cohort when you book.

Ask Counselling is not a 24-hour service for students in crisis. If you need immediate emergency help, you should contact Lifeline or SuicideLine now.

Please note: Due to legislation and professional standards, Deakin is unable to provide counselling and therapeutic advice to students located offshore. If you are permanently located overseas, please contact your local healthcare provider for advice and support.

We also recommend you download the DeakinWELLBEING app, Deakin’s one-stop-shop for all things health – both physical and mental. It’s available free to all students, no matter where you’re located.