The COVID-19 pandemic has brought many challenges for students and has sometimes tested their resilience. Now Western Sydney University has introduced an innovative new global mental health solution, TalkCampus, to further help students through any tough times, giving them free access to instant, ongoing peer support via their smartphones.
Western Sydney University’s Executive Director, Equity Diversity Safety and Wellbeing, Ms Ellen Brackenreg, said the pandemic has seen the University adapt and continue to strengthen the delivery of its student services to continue to best support students’ mental health and wellbeing.
She said the new TalkCampus app gives students instant access to an online peer-to-peer support network, all through the convenience of their mobile phone. It can be accessed anytime and anywhere – a major bonus for students who may be studying abroad or may not be on campus.
“We are delighted to launch TalkCampus at Western Sydney University, providing students with an important new addition to our wide range of existing student support services. It’s yet another way in which Western is supporting and caring for our students – no matter where they are in the world – particularly if they are going through a bit of a tough time, or feeling overwhelmed at any stage during their studies” said Ms Brackenreg.
“Importantly the TalkCampus service, which is anonymous, connects students with a network of their peers – giving them the opportunity to share their experiences, concerns and challenges with fellow students, all in a safe, online environment.”
Western Sydney University prioritises student wellbeing and TalkCampus is joining the University’s comprehensive student support offering. Launched to coincide with student orientation, TalkCampus not only offers instant ongoing support but also intelligently signpost students to additional options for help; all embedded within the app.
‘We’re delighted to welcome Western Sydney University to TalkCampus. We know that providing students with relevant and engaging online support is vital as we look to improve students' capacity to cope with the challenges they face. Our global offering can go a long way to helping students feel connected, less alone and more hopeful about the future . We look forward to working alongside Western Sydney University over the coming year,” said Jennifer Russell, TalkCampus Clinical Director.
Western Sydney University is the latest NSW institution to partner with TalkCampus joining the University of Sydney and University of Technology Sydney.
TalkCampus is a 24/7 global peer support network for students. Supporting over 500,000 students worldwide with real time moderation and escalation. If you would like to explore how TalkCampus can support your students we’d love to hear from you. Book a Demo - https://www.talkcampus.io