Mental health check-in for AU students
Let’s face it: these are unchartered times and we’re all searching for hope and understanding. This often comes with stress and anxiety about the unknown, which complicates managing daily tasks, including your studies.
Athabasca University’s (AU) Learner Support Services is here for you!
How are you feeling?
I'm having a good day!
This is great news! Keep it going by connecting with friends and family through phone, email, and social media. Try to set up a daily routine with activities such as connecting with someone, studying, or incorporating mindfulness, which many find helpful.
Mindfulness activities focus on breathing and different areas of your body or practicing gentle exercise to help you relax and concentrate. Here are some free mindfulness activities from Mindful.org that you may find useful to help guide relaxation with your current thoughts and feelings.
I am functioning well and keeping up with my studies!
Remember to keep a daily schedule of studies to keep you on track and allocate two hours a day per course. Connect with your tutor or academic expert if you need some support.
Don’t forget to check in on your own mental health and wellness as part of your daily routine. Remind yourself you are doing well and keep positive about your studies and future opportunities.
I don't understand what is going on with COVID-19 and it's making me anxious.
The uncertainty of COVID-19 can create anxiety and feel overwhelming. This is okay; you are not alone.
Take deep breaths and reassure yourself that this is a short-term situation and that you will get through this uncertainty. You can access the 24/7 Carepath Digital Health supports through the Learner Wellness Support Program at any time. AU also has a number of resources and information available through the AU Mental Health and Wellness website.
The Mental Health Commission has provided a great resource on understanding COVID-19, staying informed, and accessing mental health resources.
Today is a bad day and I wouldn't mind reaching out to someone.
AU is here to support you and your academic journey. If you need support with staying on track with your studies, you can book an appointment with AU Counselling Services.
I am feeling anxious and stressed.
Anxiety is our normal reaction to stress. We all experience different levels of stress throughout our lives in response to life events, and this is okay.
During times of uncertainty, managing anxiety is important for our own mental health.
Don’t forget AU students have access to resources 24/7 through Carepath Digital Health.