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Welcome to the Counselling Service

NEWS

Did you know that Mental Health Week is from 5th October - 11th October 2008?

During this week, if you visit one of the Student hubs or the Auchmuty Information Common you can get free posters, postcards and balloons (from the Mental Health Association of NSW) that will give you tips on how to look after yourself and your mental well being.

Here are some ideas for you to think about

10 Tips to stress less

Accept the things you can't change

Find opportunities in life's challenges

Focus on the present

Set yourself realistic goals

Be active, eat and rest well

Relax ………… maybe with a cup of tea

Use humour to see things differently

Develop supportive relationships

Note 5 positive things each day

Give someone a helping hand

Mental Health Information Service (Mental Health Association of NSW)

The Counselling Service is available to students free of charge, on a confidential basis at each of the campuses of the University of Newcastle. Counselling Service staff are available to clarify and resolve a range of issues, which might otherwise interfere with academic or personal effectiveness. Such issues include - adjustment to University life, personal and family difficulties, anxiety, depression, bereavement, relationship problems, situational stress, and course-related problems such as examination anxiety, motivation, etc.

The International Student Counsellor is based at the Callaghan campus of the University at Newcastle. This counsellor specialises in helping international students. Difficulties encountered by international students include settling into life in Australia, coping with Australian learning styles, dealing with other students and teachers, as well as a range of personal and study issues.

The Service offers both individual counselling and groups.

Individual counselling is available on an appointment basis, with some evening appointments available.

Each semester there are various workshops.

At the Callaghan campus in Newcastle there are Meditation/Relaxation groups. New participants are always welcome.

Counselling is available at the Callaghan campus in Newcastle, at the Ourimbah campus and at the Port Macquarie campus. Academic and general staff with concerns related to students are encouraged to contact the Counselling Service at their campus. These concerns could relate to a wide range of student issues including concerns about behaviour, well being, performance and management.

NOTE: Previously the Counselling Service has provided an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to staff. However, from 1st December, 2006 this service will no longer be provided by the Counselling Service. There are now two external Employee Assistance Programs.