Welcome to Real Talk, the QUT Student Services Podcast. Each episode, we dive into real-life challenges, share practical coping strategies, and interview experts who offer valuable insights on managing stress, anxiety, and the pressures of academic life. Tune in, take a breath, and let's build a healthier, more resilient university experience together.

Sarah Winkleman is a Clinical Psychologist and counsellor at QUT Student Services.

Melanie Rolfe is a current PhD student at QUT a well as a psycho-social researcher in paediatric health.

Recommendations – Mel recommends the Inside Out films, and Sarah

In this episode, Sarah and Mel discuss the importance of a good night’s sleep, the biological processes involved, and share their tips to get a few more Z’s!

Tips:

• Regularity – keep your bedtime consistent where possible

• Unplug from electronics – 30-60minute buffer time

• Try different relaxation techniques

• Get daylight exposure

• Reduce alcohol (sedation) and nicotine (stimulant)

• Reduce caffeine in the afternoon/evening

• Optimize your bedroom – temperature, warm lighting, block out light and noise, invest in quality mattress and pillow.

Hand links:

•  Calm - The #1App for Meditation and Sleep

•  Headspace Content | Meditation & Sleep App

•  Smiling Mind App —Smiling Mind

•  The Best Podcasts for Sleep | Sleep Foundation

Counselling support is available to current QUT students at both Garden’s Point and Kelvin Grove Campuses. Visit  Counselling and psychology - Student - QUT Portal for details, or call (07) 3138 2019.

This podcast touches on topics relating to mental health and is for educational purposes only. It does not replace the valuable experience of personalised counselling support. If you need urgent help, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14. If you or others are in immediate danger of harm or in the case of a mental health emergency, always call 000.

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