Having a barbecue lunch as part of the annual University Mental Health Day Festival yesterday are University of Otago students Hanna Hogg (left), of Christchurch, and Wingke Chen, of Auckland.
"But also, being aware there is support available if they do go wrong," Mr Newman said.
Hundreds turned up at the Union Lawn to enjoy a range of activities, get a free flu shot if desired and learn about what support services are available to them.
Student Health Services mental health support/liaison Phil Newman said the idea was to get students thinking about their mental health and wellbeing, rather than waiting until things went wrong.
PHOTO: GREGOR RICHARDSON
"There has been a massive increase in the incidence of psychological distress over the last 10 years and the biggest increase has been in the 14-24 age group."
Festival activities included music, games, a barbecue and an "asking for a friend" question board.
