Mental Health Month: Supporting Student Wellbeing at the Melbourne Medical School
How do we support student wellbeing — especially for those studying far from home or community? In this special Mental Health Month episode of the MMS Network Podcast, Professor Sarath Ranganathan talks with Cathy Garlett, Indigenous Primary Health Practitioner (Metro) and Lisa Power, Health and Wellbeing Practitioner (Rural). Together, they explore what wellbeing means for rural and Indigenous medical students - from balancing study and life to building belonging, cultural connection, and support across metro and rural settings. The discussion also highlights the unique challenges students face during their training and the practical ways our wellbeing teams help them stay connected and cared for throughout their studies. A thoughtful conversation reminding us that while Mental Health Month gives us a moment to pause and reflect, our commitment to wellbeing continues all year round. Student resources mentioned: Student Health and Wellbeing Practitioners Programs for Indigenous students UMSU Indigenous Department Mental Health Training for Students Your feedback helps shape our episodes. If you have suggestions, ideas or just want to share what you liked about this episode, please get in touch with the Melbourne Medical School communications team: mms-enquiries@unimelb.edu.au. If you would like to explore music recommendations from all our podcast guests so far, you can check out the MMS Network Podcast Music Playlist on Spotify. MMS Network is a podcast from the Melbourne Medical School, University of Melbourne. Recorded at The Horwood Recording Studio University of Melbourne by Gavin Nebauer. Music created by Professor Sarath Ranganathan, Head of the Melbourne Medical School. Photographer credits: Kate Longley.
