It’s okay to ask for help

We’re living in a strange and unprecedented time in history, and it’s safe to say that a majority of us may be feeling more than a little off-kilter. It’s important to remember that you’re not alone, and it’s more than okay to ask for help.

There is so much news and so many resources being shared at present, it’s easy to get lost or overwhelmed. To help you out, we’ve gathered a number of online services and assets to hopefully address some of the issues you may be facing.

Help, my work situation has changed and I need financial support

This information is changing all the time, but as of Sunday 22 March 2020 the Morrison Government has included full-time students in their latest economic package. According to SBS, this includes students on Youth Allowance, Austudy and Abstudy.

Services Australia released a summary of the announcement that includes eligibility details and the links you can follow to sign up for Centrelink if you’ve never received it before. It is important to note that if you do already receive any of the payments listed, the Supplement should automatically be available to you from 27 April 2020, so you shouldn’t need to contact Centrelink.

ABC News also produced a pretty thorough article that is definitely worth checking out if you want to watch the announcement in question, and read more about what’s been promised at this stage.

Finally, if you haven’t reviewed it already, visit Service Australia’s students and trainees page for a list of assistance you may be eligible for. You can also check out the Payment and Service Finder to discover, estimate and compare payments and services.

Help, I’m struggling with my mental health

It’s a difficult time for many of us at the moment, and it’s completely normal to not feel your best. That’s why it’s so important to be proactive in making choices that support your mental health.

There are many services and resources available to you at this time, but here are just a few to get you started. (And remember in the case of an emergency where life is in danger, call 000.)

• UTS Counselling has a number of online self-help guides that may help you out, including advice surrounding loneliness, motivation, anxiety, stress and more.
• The Australian Department of Health’s Head to Health website is designed to help you find and connect with a range of digital resources for health issues.
• Lifeline offers 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention via their hotline, on 13 11 14.
• ReachOut is another 24/7 support service, that provides an anonymous forum to connect with others and access info, videos, stories and more.
• Batyr has a great page on their site that lists a number of mental health support services and foundations that is definitely worth a look if you’d like to find out more.

Also if you’re a member of the LGBTIQA+ community and are self-isolating in a non-accepting space, check out this article from them. that features advice from experts at the Trevor Project on staying afloat while in quarantine. 

Finally, a big issue facing many at present is loneliness and a lack of social support. R U OK? posted a great article that gives you’re a number of ways you can stay connected while social distancing measures are in place.

Help, I now need to create or update my resume or write a cover letter and I am struggling

Because of all the changes our society is facing at the moment, there are many people who have suddenly found themselves needing to update or create their resume, or draft a standout cover letter. This can be a daunting prospect, even at the best of times.

Thankfully, our Recruitment Advisors are now available to chat with you online via our Virtual Drop-in service. In these 15-minute appointments they can give you tips and advice on creating an effective job application, and help you put your best foot forward. Bookings are essential.

Help, I was hoping to build my industry skills this year but now I don’t know how to

Building industry and technical skills outside of your degree may now seem like a difficult task when you’re social distancing.

Luckily, as a UTS student, you have access to LinkedIn Learning tutorials. This vast online library offers a variety of educational videos from recognised experts. Topics include Adobe Creative Suite, business skills, web design, programming languages and more.

Help, I wanted to make industry connections and build my network this year and now I don’t know how to

While networking events and catch-ups have been cancelled, that doesn’t mean you can’t still start forging connections in your field.

We’ve created a quick and easy article that looks at how you can network with industry from home that includes advice around utilising LinkedIn, accessing the Professional Mentoring Platform, and tips on using social media to reach out.

Help, I don’t know where to find work now

Despite many Australians facing unemployment, some businesses are looking for new employees to meet the increased demand in their services.

In addition, there are still plenty of new jobs being posted to CareerHub each week so it’s definitely worth checking in regularly to see what’s new. It’s also a fantastic place to find career resources, upcoming opportunities, and more.

You can also visit the UTS Career Directory to find jobs, compare employers, and find career advice.

Help, I want to do something positive for myself and learn something new in the process

One of Yale’s most popular courses is now available for free online: The Science of Well-Being. The course combines positive psychology with behavioural science and can help highlight what habits it’s worth cultivating to have a happier, more fulfilled life.

Help, I’m in a negative headspace and want a calm and quick exercise to help get out of it

It’s easy to start feeling down or anxious during this time. To add some positivity to your day, the VIA Institute is providing free access to their Loving-Kindness Meditation and Three Good Things exercise you can work through.

If you know of any great resources or services your fellow students could benefit from during this time, let us know at careersblog@uts.edu.au.  

Featured image courtesy of Unsplash