The counselling and Psychological Support Unit (CaPSU) is the specialised unit established within the Health Centre in the University of Peradeniya. It has been founded with the financial support of AAUP Canberra Chapter (AAUPCC), and in collaboration with the AAUP and the psychiatric unit of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya to provide counselling for students.

In addition to financial hardship, mental health issues have a huge impact on students. The decline in mental health has increased throughout the years. However, it is not a topic openly discussed and treated in comparison to physical health. Therefore, more attention to mental well-being is needed. The mental health program that AAUPCC proposed has been accepted by the university authority. As a result of that, on Wednesday, 3 August 2022, CaPSU has established on the university health centre premise. AAUPCC volunteered to provide funding for two counsellors for an initial two-year period. The estimated cost of the counselling service is around AUS $2000 per six months, considering the current exchange rates.

We hope that our extended support provides strength to build resilience for students in need and that the CaPSU’s work will have a direct impact on improving students’ health and well-being.