Mental Health Month is coming to a close, but that doesn’t mean it should be the end of the conversation. Chatting about your wellbeing can be scary and we’re here to show you that there are people on campus who are there to help.
The ActivateUTS Wellbeing Rep program is one of the many health resources available at UTS. You may have seen them around campus in their pink shirts, hosting silent discos and just generally making mental health more approachable.
We chatted with Lorenzo, an international student and Wellbeing Rep, about his experience volunteering with the program, and how you can get involved.
'Our volunteers are all about spreading the word on mental health services across UTS. Through cool collabs with clubs, ActivateUTS events, and university services, we’re on a mission to bring positive vibes to campus and break down mental health barriers. If you’re an international student, we’ve got your back. From language challenges to homesickness, we get it – and we’re here to help.'
What does a Wellbeing Rep do?
‘As Wellbeing Rep, I participate in many events, especially during O'Day, with the aim of raising awareness of mental health services at UTS.'
The wellbeing reps help bridge the connection between students and support. They not only create opportunities for students to speak openly and honestly about mental health, but they also host events and activities to get involved in.
Our wellbeing reps are fully trained and accredited mental health first aid providers. This means they go through professional external training to ensure they’re providing the best support to us while keeping themselves safe.
Lorenzo says one of the things he loves most about being a wellbeing rep is, 'Being able to encourage people to seek mental health services and break down the stigma around them.’
The ActivateUTS Wellbeing program also provides both internal and external resources and contacts for students. These are available to you 24/7 and can also be accessed if you are worried about someone you know.
Why should you get involved?
Being a Wellbeing rep is an amazing way to give back to your student community. You’re able to meet loads of people and build deep, lasting friendships. If you’re keen to learn more about mental health, our wellbeing reps receive extensive training on how to support people experiencing a mental health crisis. This training also focuses specifically on the support needs of different communities.
Lorenzo also mentioned how important this program was in his transition into the UTS community. Coming here as an international student from Europe he found that becoming a wellbeing rep allowed him to comfortably engage with other students and learn about mental health in a way he couldn’t back home.
Want to get involved?
If mental health, and being there for others, is something you’re passionate about, you can apply to become a wellbeing rep! It’s the perfect opportunity to get connected with other students and volunteer at events around campus.
Need to chat or a helping hand? Find out where our exisiting reps will be.
Other support services
UTS Sexual Assault Support line