Research

The use of social networks has grown dramatically, with 62.3% of the world’s population reportedly engaging on these platforms for an average of 2 hours and 23 minutes each day. While social media can be a powerful tool for communication, education, and connection, it can also spread misinformation and contribute to unhealthy usage patterns. This […]

Physical activity is widely recognised as an effective way to promote mental health, enhance wellbeing, and prevent mental ill-health across all demographic groups. This national consensus statement from Sports Medicine Australia and the Australian Psychological Society offers evidence-based guidance on how to design and promote physical activity to maximise its mental-health benefits. It identifies five […]

Young adults in higher education are often assumed to face greater mental health risks than their non-student peers, yet direct comparisons are limited. This research examined the mental health and wellbeing of 1,708 young Australians aged 17–25, including 828 university students and 880 non-students. It compared levels of psychological distress, wellbeing, resilience, and loneliness, and […]

Universities are increasingly recognised as key settings for promoting health and wellbeing to enhance academic success, career readiness, and lifelong healthy behaviours. This research conducted a large baseline survey of students at an Australian university to examine health, academic, and social factors influencing wellbeing. The findings were used to inform the university’s new Student Health […]

This research was conducted as a national study exploring how Australian universities translate health and wellbeing policies into practical action. While most institutions endorse the importance of student wellbeing, there is limited understanding of how these commitments are implemented across whole-of-university systems. This research targeted Deputy Vice-Chancellors (Academic) as participants, recognising their central role within […]

Universities play a crucial role in supporting student mental health, however, national consistency in strategy and policy remains limited. This research reviewed 39 Australian universities to assess how well their mental health policies align with Orygen’s Australian University Mental Health Framework, which sets six principles for creating mentally healthy campus environments. These principles emphasise student-informed […]

A 2024 randomised controlled trial investigated yoga as a mental health intervention for university students, a population who often face high stress and anxiety. The study recruited 129 students, assigning half to a 12-week yoga program (two 60-minute sessions weekly) and half to a control group. Outcomes measured with validated tools showed that the yoga […]

A 2024 longitudinal study found that even brief physical activity breaks during home study can significantly reduce stress. Leisure-time exercise also plays a key role in helping students recover and contributes to their sense of academic achievement. These findings highlight the importance of incorporating movement into daily study routines to build mental resilience and enhance […]

This research reviews 58 exercise trials, reporting that programs like dance, Pilates, martial arts, and team sports significantly reduce stress, anxiety, and depression while improving mood and life satisfaction in university students. Moderate-to-vigorous activities proved most effective, making them a key investment for student wellbeing. Australian universities should consider embedding exercise programs like these into […]

A 12‑week pilot study at Monash University tested “PEAK – Mood, Mind, and Marks”, a neuroscience-backed exercise program co-designed with students to boost mental and cognitive health. Nearly half of participants reached the goal of exercising greater than three times per week. More importantly, students (notably those previously inactive) saw lower sedentary time, enhanced well‑being, […]