Come and hear from arts and mental health professionals as they share their insights and strategies for managing stress, preventing burnout, and maintaining a healthy mind and self care.

Working in the arts is often precarious, with contract and casual employment the norm. The hours can be long, irregular, and poorly paid. Arts workers can find themselves working in isolation, so fostering a sense of community is a priority but can be difficult to do.

As students it is important that we start developing resilience and strategies to practice self-care. Join us and have a conversation with our amazing invited speakers, as we find ways to live and work in a healthy and sustainable way.

The panel consists of
Chris Cheers
Arts & Creatives Psychologist
Chris is an endorsed Educational and Developmental Psychologist and in recent years has developed an expertise and interest in sexuality and gender development, completing specialised training in supporting LGBTIQ clients across all ages. He’s also a member of the Australian and New Zealand Professional Association for Transgender Health. Chris is also a Lecturer in the School of Psychology at Australian Catholic University across both undergraduate and postgraduate Psychology courses.Previously Chris has worked in the Arts and brings an understanding of this industry to clients who work in performance, acting and other arts industries.

Sophia Cai
Curator & writer
Sophia Cai is a Melbourne-based curator, arts writer, public programmer and greyhound enthusiast. She is particularly interested in Asian art history, the intersection between contemporary art and craft, as well as feminist methodologies and community-based practices. As a public programmer, Sophia is passionate about community building and working collaboratively with her peers. When not visiting galleries or museums, Sophia enjoys knitting and taking walks with her greyhound best friends (and half-siblings) Rosie and Rocket. 

Jenna MacLeod
Compass Coordinator (RUSU)
At Compass, we are here to support students by offering advice, information and referrals regarding a wide range of psychosocial issues students experience. Being a university student is hard and there are many life stressors that pop up during study. We offer support in areas such as but not limited too mental health, relationship issues, homelessness, financial stress and many more.

The event is facilitated by the First Site Committee, and runs for an hour and a half. 

Refreshment and light snacks will be provided.

All are welcome and there will be valuable responses for those that may not engage in the arts. 

First Site is partially wheelchair accessible via an elevator. Please come to the entrance on Swanston Street where a First Site Committee member will be stationed, they will provide lift access.

Register via Eventbrite
Facebook event

Image: Ruby Jurecka