Student Intranet - News

Wednesday, 01 October 2025

The middle of semester can often feel like the toughest stretch. The initial rush of excitement has faded, assignments are stacking up and exams are starting to loom. For many students, the marathon of the middle is when energy dips and stress begins to rise.

That’s why ECU is taking part in WA Mental Health Week (4 – 11 October) – a state-wide initiative that raises awareness of the importance of mental health and wellbeing. At ECU, we’re marking the week with tips, resources and events to help you refresh, recharge and take care of yourself while you stay focused on your studies.

Why mental health matters at university

University life is rewarding and full of opportunity, but it can also be overwhelming. The middle weeks of semester are often when you are juggling multiple deadlines, balancing casual work or placements and trying to keep up with your personal life at the same time.

It is easy to think that pushing through without rest is the only way forward. In reality, performance and wellbeing go hand in hand. Taking just five minutes away from your desk to go for a walk, watch something funny or chat with family and friends can recharge your focus and improve productivity.

Events

For those on campus, ECU is also hosting two special events to mark the week. Whether it is sharing breakfast with friends or stepping into the sunshine for a moment of play, these activities are a chance to refocus and remind yourself that your wellbeing matters just as much as your grades.

The Living Room Mount Lawley – Breakfast for the soul

When: Thursday 9 October, 8.30 am – 10.00 am
Where: The Living Room (Building 12), Mount Lawley Campus

Start your morning with a free breakfast and hot drink, thanks to support from the ECU Student Guild. Fruit, pastries, coffee, tea and hot chocolate will be on offer – a simple way to fuel up and connect with others before the day begins.

The Living Room Joondalup – Take 5 for your mind

When: Friday 10 October, 10.30 am – 12.30 pm
Where: Behind Birra Bar (Building 9), Joondalup Campus

Celebrate World Mental Health Day with activities to help you unwind and recharge. Try axe throwing or boules, add a note to the gratitude and kindness wall, or take part in small moments of joy designed to brighten your day.

The marathon of the middle

You cannot sprint the entire semester. Just like any long-distance run, pacing yourself matters. Taking time to rest, fuel your body and support your mental health helps you stay strong all the way to the finish line.

If you’re feeling the weight of mid-semester, remember that slowing down and taking brief pauses to recharge yourself does not mean falling behind. In fact, it is one of the smartest things you can do.

Tips to stay on track

Here are some simple ways to balance your study with self-care through the mid-semester stretch:

• Break study into chunks – use short study sprints with built-in breaks
• Get moving – even a 10-minute walk outside can reset your brain
• Fuel wisely – eat balanced meals and stay hydrated
• Prioritise sleep – aim for 7 – 9 hours a night to restore focus and energy
• Talk it out – reach out to a friend, peer or ECU support service if you are feeling overwhelmed
• Celebrate the small wins – completing one reading, drafting a paragraph or submitting a quiz is still progress worth acknowledging and deserves to be celebrated (maybe with a sweet treat!)

For more ideas, check out ECU Psychological Counselling Support’s tip sheets.

You are not alone

Most importantly, remember that ECU is here to support you. From The Living Room to Psychological Counselling Support, there are people ready to help when things feel heavy. All you have to do is reach out.

So, make time alongside your studies – even just for five minutes – and give yourself permission to care for your mind. Because in the marathon of the middle, looking after yourself is the key to crossing the finish line strong.