National Summit on the Mental Health of Tertiary Students

National Summit

4 - 5 August 2011

The National Summit on the Mental Health of Tertiary Students was held in Melbourne in August 2011. The Summit brought together over 200 delegates from almost every university in Australia and New Zealand, as well as Institutes of TAFE, peak bodies representing tertiary education interest groups and the mental health sector, and government departments. Delegates included staff in leadership roles, researchers and service managers. Discussion was led by high-profile national experts who critically analysed of the adequacy of existing institutional policies and practices.

Event Summary (PDF)

 

 

“Rising numbers of students are seeking out university counselling and health services, including students presenting with eating disorders, problem drug or alcohol use, mental illness, self harming behaviour, and suicidality. The picture is complex and requires new interpretations and new responses.  Academic difficulties can of themselves lead to personal problems, which in turn may take on a life of their own and require direct intervention above and beyond academic and study skills responses.” (Jonathan Norton, 2010)