By Milly Bannister, Founder of ALLKND
When we think about university, we imagine a time of self-discovery, independence, and exciting new friendships. But for many students across Australia, this transition is marred by silent struggles with mental health. The latest ‘Good Mate Survey’ from ALLKND (a Gen Z mental health support organisation) and UNiDAYS (a student discounts platform) paints a stark picture: less than half of students rate their mental health as ‘good’ or ‘excellent’ at the start of the academic year. Even more concerning? More than half of the 800 UNiDAYS members interviewed fear being judged if they disclose their struggles.
Interestingly, students in their 4th+ year of study are the most likely to feel the weight of stigma, often worrying about how opening up about their mental health challenges might impact the way they are perceived by their peers, lecturers, and future employers.
This data confirms what many young people already know – mental health stigma isn’t just a relic of the past. It still dictates who speaks up, who suffers in silence, and who gets help. And for university students, this silence can be paralysing.
The Stigma That Won’t Budge
Despite the many mental health awareness campaigns and increased access to university counselling services, students still feel unsafe talking about their struggles. Our survey found that only 1 in 3 students feel they have a good support system at university, leaving them vulnerable when stress and anxiety take hold.
The contradiction is striking: 79% of students are aware of mental health resources on campus, yet less than half (42%) regularly confide in others about their struggles, let alone a professional. Awareness is up, but access and trust remain barriers.
For first-year students, the stakes are even higher. Transitioning into university life is already daunting, and when you add financial stress, academic pressure, and the fear of not fitting in, it’s no wonder that so many students are quietly struggling. Many turn to social media for answers – our survey found that 39% of students use social media to better understand mental health – but this self-led approach can only go so far.
When ‘Being a Good Mate’ is More Than a Slogan
If stigma keeps students from asking for help, peer support becomes the most powerful tool we have. ALLKND’s research shows that young people aren’t lacking in compassion or willingness to help their mates, majority of the time, they just don’t feel confident in how to do it.
That’s why we created Good Mate Training, a free, evidence-based digital program designed to help students safely support each other through the ups and downs of university life. It’s about making sure that when someone is struggling, their peers have the skills and knowledge to show up in a meaningful way.
We know that universities need to do more than just offer formal counselling services – they need to create a culture where it’s normal and safe to talk about mental health. This means better signposting of resources, embedding mental health education and conversations into student life, and making peer support training widely available.
Moving from Awareness to Action
This is where institutions, organisations, and student communities need to step up. Awareness is not enough anymore – we need action. Universities must invest in practical, student-consulted solutions that make mental health support a lived reality, not just an option hidden on a website.
At ALLKND, we’re showing up where students are – at O-Week, on social media, and in student-led spaces – to equip young Australians with the tools to support themselves and each other from day one.
As we move forward, the question is not whether mental health is important – it’s whether we’re doing enough to change the culture of silence that still exists on university campuses. The data is clear: students need more than just awareness campaigns; they need real, practical support that helps them feel safe to speak up and seek help.
If you or anyone you know requires confidential support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or contact Beyond Blue.
Top photo: Supplied/ALLKND – pictured is Milly Bannister.
