Shift the Stigma: World Mental Health Day

Marked Internationally on October 10

What can you do?

Here are a few suggestions for simple actions that can help foster positive mental health.

Connect with others

One way we can care for our mental health is to maintain connections with others. Connecting with others can boost meaning and purpose, reduce stress, and foster a sense of belonging. 

Reach out, even when it’s the last thing you feel you want to do.

• Phone a friend or family member
• Go for a walk with your roommate
• Join a study group
• Join a student group or club based on your interests
• Ask a coworker to lunch
• Connect with people you share customs or culture with. Several cultural student groups exist, and you can also check out First Peoples’ House and the Interfaith Chaplains’ Association.
• Get involved with a mental health work on campus, like Jack.org, Active Minds or the Canadian Mental Health Association’s Student Group.
• Join Unitea, the Landing or the Peer Support Centre to give or receive peer support.

Listen to others

It’s far too common to answer, “I’m fine, thanks,” even when it isn’t true. How many of us repeat this when asked, “how are you?” because we don’t believe the asker really wants to know. Let’s be a campus that will make space for the real answer.    

Taking a moment to listen in those moments can provide opportunities to support each other through difficult times, which can help us get help when we need it.

Listening is a skill that we can all develop with practice. You can take free training through Wellness Supports at the University of Alberta: How to Have a Supportive Conversation.

Ask for help

Acknowledge how you’re doing and let trusted friends or family know. Being open with others will let them know how they can help you. Asking for help can include visiting campus services you are familiar with and letting them know you need support. 

There may be times when you know your mental health needs support, but you’re not sure where to go. There is a wealth of support available on campus that can support a variety of your needs:

• Students: Student Service Centre
• Graduate students: Graduate Student Assistance Program
• Faculty & Staff: Employee and Family Assistance Program