Student Health, Counselling, and Wellness Services has unveiled a new website that details its medical services, counselling options, and wellness programming all in one online location.

Among the new features are:

• an online Mental Health & Wellness Resource Guide;
• a Coping with Stress toolkit for students;
• a video overview of what to expect from the Student Counselling Centre.
• a new resource that discusses barriers to seeking help for students who may be thinking about reaching out for support but are feeling nervous or uncertain.

It has been a difficult year but for those struggling to cope, nothing shows strength like reaching out for support, says Katie Chauvin, mental health and wellness co-ordinator in the Student Counselling Centre.

“As we move into the stress of final exam season, the impact of the pandemic and the challenges of navigating ongoing uncertainty and change continue to take a toll,” she says.

“It makes sense if you’re struggling right now. Reaching out for support is always strong and resilient, and there are many free and confidential resources available, including several 24/7 helplines. What you’re experiencing matters. You don’t have to face this alone.”

Chauvin adds that staff and faculty play critical roles in promoting student well-being.

“Every time faculty and staff integrate conversations into their interactions with students that normalize help-seeking and validate that reaching out for support is strong, they are creating conditions that challenge stigma, increase psychological safety, and reduce barriers to care,” she says. “All it takes is one person to be that difference.”

Student Health, Counselling, and Wellness Services encourages faculty and staff to visit the Supporting Students webpage for information on responding to student mental health concerns. The page also offers updated PowerPoint slides and a BlackBoard post template instructors can share with students, listing mental health resources.