With widening access to higher education, Australian university student populations are increasingly diverse. Numerous reviews and inquiries have highlighted that many of these students are at increased risk of mental-ill health and suicide attributable to (intersectional) disadvantage1, 5, 6, 7, and that barriers faced in accessing appropriate supports include: stigma associated with mental health services, concerns regarding academic and peer outcomes, the belief that wellbeing supports cater exclusively to students experiencing severe distress, and uncertainty related to confidentiality 1,3,4.
Informed by the Orygen University Mental Health Framework2, research raising concerns that services may not meet the needs of students5, and research indicating students desire wellbeing to be reframed as for everyone3, Murdoch University has recently introduced a peer-led health and wellbeing drop-in space for students, called The Den. This space is open for all students though intentionally designed to welcome at-risk student populations (e.g., international, LGBTQAI+, CaLD, young people, students with disability, students from a low socio-economic background, and First Nations students).
Focussing on prevention and early intervention, The Den offers a gentle and opt-in space which fosters social inclusion and a safe space to speak with a trained peer. It offers daily wellbeing activities and workshops, which build resilience and coping strategies for all students, including activities focussed on inclusion and education specific to vulnerable populations (e.g., International Café weekly to engage international students, training on accessible technology for Global Accessibility Awareness Day, “How to help your friend if they’re not okay” workshop during RUOK Day/Mental Health Week, tie-dyeing and conversations for Wear it Purple Day etc...).
Student Wellbeing & Equity Ambassadors (SWEAs) who staff the space are recruited for their lived experience from marginalised groups (e.g. diverse culture, age, language, ability, mental health, gender, sexuality, etc.) and are provided additional training to support students who may be at increased risk of mental ill health and suicide. Additionally, escalation to an onsite clinical staff member works as a safety net for response to risk and crisis management, including referral into specialist support as needed.
The introduction of The Den aims to reduce the precursors to mental ill health, reduce the demand on mainstream mental health services where appropriate, and supports those who have not yet accessed/are unsure of accessing mainstream mental health supports on campus. Additionally, it frames wellbeing as for everyone and reduces barriers to students who may be at increased risk of mental ill health and suicide.