Mental health strategy
Context
Since the ANU unveiled its Mental Health Strategy in 2016, there has been widespread acknowledgment of the health harms of sexism, racism, homophobia, abuse, harassment and discrimination in all forms, and the surge in distress and disorders accompanying the pandemic has created insight into the social determinants of mental health and wellbeing.
ANU remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding the mental well-being of its students and staff. By 2029, the University envisions a community that is not only inclusive but also robustly supportive and united. Further, the 2023 legislation on psychosocial workplace hazards amplifies the University's responsibility to address processes and practices that might jeopardise the mental health of its community. Numerous pioneering initiatives are presently underway, each tailored to enhance the well-being of our campus community. A strong, leading strategy could make mental health and wellbeing part of the ANU Identity.
The ensuing review is informed by this backdrop.
Background
In light of the evolving mental health challenges, in September 2022 the IDEA Governance Committee (IGC) commissioned the creation of the ANU Mental Health Strategy Review Taskforce, led by Professor Lyndall Strazdins as the Project Director for the Mental Health Strategy Review Project to re-evaluate the existing Mental Health Strategy (MHS).
The review will examine preventive measures, strategies for cultivating a culture characterized by kindness, strength, and equity, existing systems and processes, and the potential requirements for services and support, both on and off campus. It will adopt a broad and inclusive perspective, exploring various initiatives and improvements that the University could implement to enhance the quality of learning, working, and living experiences within its community while recognising that there are differing needs.
The Mental Health Review Taskforce is comprised of the following representatives:
- Chair - Professor Lyndall Strazdins
- People and Culture - Kylie Grady
- University Experience - Larissa Siliezar Mendoza
- Counselling Services (University Experience) - Lisa Kennedy
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander representatives - Dr Jill Guthrie and Dr Fiona Cornforth
- Residential Experience - Felicity Gouldthorp
- School of Medicine and Psychology - Professor Bruce Christensen
- ANU academic expert - Dr Lou Farrer
- Academic staff member - Professor Jo Ford
- ACT Health, Office of Mental Health and Well-being - Dr Elizabeth Moore
- Undergraduate, ANUSA disability and BIPOC student representatives - Mira Robson, Sonali Varma, Griffin Wright and Selena Wania
- Postgraduate student representatives - Abolfazl Amjadipour
Project Approach
Guided by the Inclusive Communities Team, the Mental Health Review Taskforce has been meeting monthly since July 2023. The Taskforce’s final meeting is scheduled for July 2024, during which the final report will be confirmed before being submitted to the IGC’s July meeting.
Phase 1 – Research, Consultations and development. July 2023 to July 2024
- Review of current strategy
- Develop principles
- Consultation and co-design of strategy with staff, students, service leaders and providers and ANU Leadership
- Develop comprehensive report to senior management
- Develop and public release of concise report
Phase 2 – Implementation and evaluation. August 2024 to May 2025
- Public consultation of public report
- Develop implementation and evaluation framework to measure strategic success
- Publish report with full recommendations with implementation and evaluation strategy
If you have any questions or would like further information please email inclusivecommunities@anu.edu.au or visit the ANU Mental Health Strategy Review SharePoint site for further information.
Documents
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Website links
Contact
- +61 2 6125 5036