Changing the narrative for postgrad students
As we mark World Suicide Prevention Day on Wednesday 10 September, this year’s theme ‘Changing the narrative’ calls us to shift from silence and misunderstanding toward openness, empathy, and support. For postgraduate students, this change couldn’t be more urgent.
Recent research confirms what many of us already know: university students face unprecedented mental health challenges. One in 3 young people aged 16–24 experience high or very high psychological distress, with postgraduate students facing unique pressures from research demands, financial stress, social isolation, and the transition to academic independence. The intersection of these factors creates a perfect storm for mental health crises.
Breaking the silence
In our recent submission to the NSW Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy, SUPRA and the SRC highlighted that suicide remains the leading cause of death for Australians aged 15–49. For postgraduate students, the stakes are particularly high. Academic deadlines and the pressure to achieve in competitive research environments can feel overwhelming.
It’s time to challenge the harmful narrative that struggling with mental health is a personal failing or an inevitable part of academic life. Mental health challenges are common responses to genuinely difficult circumstances, not character flaws. Many postgraduate students experience suicidal ideation at some point during their studies – this doesn’t make you weak, broken, or unsuited to academia.
Immediate support and safety
If you’re experiencing thoughts of suicide, please know that help is available right now:
Crisis support:
- Lifeline: 13 11 14
- Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
- 13YARN (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander crisis support): 13 92 76
- Usyd Wellbeing: 1300 474 065.
Creating a safety plan can be a powerful tool when you’re struggling. This involves identifying warning signs, making your environment safe, identifying reasons to live, having a list of people you can reach out to, and a list of professional contacts. Beyond Blue and Lifeline have created a safety plan app Beyond Now to help you create a plan.
Supporting each other
If you’re supporting someone who is experiencing suicidal thoughts, listen without judgment, take their concerns seriously, and help them connect with professional support. Don’t promise to keep suicidal thoughts secret – sometimes breaking confidentiality can save a life.
Change starts with connection
While we advocate for better mental health systems – like university mental health hubs and affordable psychiatric care – peer connection remains one of our most powerful tools. SUPRA’s networks provide spaces where postgrad students who are facing similar challenges can support each other.
You don’t have to navigate your postgraduate journey alone. Sometimes peer support provides the understanding that only comes from shared experience. Find out more about SUPRA networks.
Your struggles are valid, help is available, and your life has value beyond academic achievements. If you’re recognising yourself in these words, please reach out – to crisis services, to professional support, or to SUPRA networks where you can find community.
Gemma Lucy Smart
Deputy Disabilities Officer
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