8 September, 2020

TAFE NSW students across the [Riverina/Illawarra] will have access to a unique webinar, hosted by former NRL player and mental health advocate Dan Hunt, aimed at supporting student wellbeing during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The first-ever “Take 30 for Mental Health” sessions will commence on 10 September to coincide with R U OK? Day, with a second session to be held on 15 October during Mental Health Month.

TAFE NSW students will be encouraged to pause for the event and take 30 minutes to focus on their wellbeing and mental health. The virtual event will highlight the support services available to students at TAFE NSW, include a talk by Mr Hunt - a former TAFE NSW student and NRL star who established the Mental Health Movement after being diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder - and a Q&A session.

Mr Hunt said it was fitting he returns to TAFE NSW to help students as the same organisation supported him during his “darkest time”.

“I was studying at TAFE NSW when this journey started and my time there really helped me understand my mental illness better,” Mr Hunt said.

“Sometimes it’s the younger generation that is most vulnerable to mental health issues at times of uncertainty because they don’t have the life experience to call upon.

“The antidote to a lot of individual suffering is awareness and I’m excited to be involved in this with TAFE NSW and to be highlighting all the resources available to students who are struggling.”

Mr Hunt said it was critical not just to highlight how people could find help but to help them better understand the nature of mental illnesses.

“I have a mental illness but I’m mentally healthy and I hope this webinar helps students not just manage their mental health, but be a better support provider for others,” he said.

TAFE NSW Regional General Manager Belinda Mackinnon said TAFE NSW was proud to be partnering with the Mental Health Movement to support students in this way.

“TAFE NSW is committed to ensuring students get the most out of their learning experience but understands often personal matters can impact that,” Ms Mackinnon said.

“That’s why we provide free one-on-one counselling to students, whether it be about their education, future career or personal issues. The Take 30 for Mental Health sessions are a natural extension of that.”

To find out more about studying at TAFE NSW, phone 13 16 01 or visit www.tafensw.edu.au.

Media contact: Daniel Johns, TAFE NSW Media and Communications – Business Partner, 6938 1441, mobile 0477 722428.