Why good mental health is important for study

It’s an expression we use every day, so it might surprise you that the term ‘mental health’ is frequently misunderstood. Meagan Miskin is the Health, Wellbeing & Injury Management Consultant at CDU and she shares the importance that good mental health plays when it comes to work, study and life. 

‘Mental health’ is often used as a substitute for mental health conditions – such as depression, anxiety conditions, schizophrenia, and others.

According to the World Health Organization, however, mental health is “a state of well-being in which every individual realises his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to her or his community.”

So rather than mental health being about ‘what’s the problem?’ it’s really about ‘what’s going well?'

Research shows that high levels of mental health are associated with increased learning, creativity and productivity, more pro-social behaviour and positive social relationships, and with improved physical health and life expectancy. 

Positive mental health focuses on developing environments where you can thrive and reach your optimal potential at work, study and in life. At times, we all experience personal difficulties that may cause disruption and confusion in our lives. Study usually involves a significant commitment of time and effort and requires a disciplined routine in order to achieve academic success, which can place significant stress on mental health. It’s important that, in times of high stress, we have strategies in place to protect our mental health.

Check out the CDU online resource “Five ways to wellbeing”, which gives you an idea of some strategies to use to help maintain your positive mental health and wellbeing.

If you're currently enrolled at CDU, you can book a confidential and free session to discuss anything that may be affecting your wellbeing. To find out more about this service, please visit the website: http://www.cdu.edu.au/equity-services/counselling

Additional online resources include:

The Desk - aims to support Australian tertiary students to achieve mental and physical health and wellbeing.

Beyondblue - Beyondblue resources aim to help improve mental health across various stages of life and areas of the community. Check out the latest information and opportunities for support.