Dealing with the highs and lows of university life

With Suicide Prevention Week approaching Jan.20, Kasia shares how knowing your sources of strength can help you in times of crisis.

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Kasia Nguyen (she/her) is an undergraduate student in the Faculty of Arts studying science, technology and society. Her studies have cultivated a passion for exploring the intricacies of interdisciplinary work. When she's not exploring the city for a new cafe, you will likely find her hopping on an airplane or singing her heart out at a concert. 


Note: this article will deal with many tough topics, suicide being the main one. If you or someone you know is struggling, immediate supports and resources are available.

What are some examples of sources of strength?

Sources of strength are pieces in someone's life that act as support in times of struggle. This might include your community, mental health resources, environment and physical well-being. Sources of strength are what I like to believe ground me when faced with adversity.

How can we incorporate community as a source of strength in our everyday lives?

When I'm struggling with my academics, workload or mental health, oftentimes, my first source of strength is the relationships that I have fostered in my life. 

You might be wondering, "How do I create healthy relationships?" 

I believe it starts with initiative — the intention to create a bond with someone. You can do this by simply complimenting a stranger, saying hi to the person who sits next to you in class or attending a student group event. There are over 450 unique student groups on campus! Find one that interests you, attend an event and let the rest flow from there. If the person that you speak to does not immediately become your best friend, that's totally okay. Your community is built one interaction at a time, and every hello will slowly become a reminder of the community you're a part of. 

Once you've started new relationships, make sure to nurture them in the way that feels best for you. Listen to your body and take the time to check in with yourself. Simple questions like "Do I have the capacity to have a conversation with my friend that I want to catch up with today?" If the answer is no, then adapt with an alternative that does fit your capacity, such as sending a text message that says, "Hi! I've been super busy with my exams recently but wanted to let you know that I hope to catch up soon. Until then, I'm wishing you the best of luck on your finals!" 

My relationships are key to motivating me through difficult times, finding calmness in struggle and creating a sense of fulfillment. Relationships go both ways; you mean something in other people's lives, and you mean something to our community. 

It's not always easy to reach out for help. Where can students start?

When I want support that extends beyond my friends, family and community, I turn to a variety of different mental health services on and off campus. Knowing who to turn to is the first step in overcoming a challenge. If you have no clue where to start, then connect with Wellness Supports. You'll be able to speak to a social worker who can guide you through the best next steps. 

It's been extremely beneficial in my life to know what types of mental health support are available. Recently, a friend of mine had expressed they were struggling with a mental health challenge. I let them know about One at a Time Therapy and helped them book an appointment for the following week. This situation reminded me that knowing what resources are available not only helps me but also helps the people around me. You can learn more about campus resources online

I will admit it's not easy to ask for help. It can feel overwhelming, vulnerable and like a lot of effort. Those are all very real and valid thoughts, but I want to remind you how powerful it feels to take charge. Asking for help is an action of strength and resilience. It's grounding to know that resources are available to support me in times of struggle, and I have the freedom to use them as an act of resilience. 

You can contribute to Suicide Prevention Week by joining wellness events and attending training sessions to learn essential suicide prevention skills that will help keep our campus community safe.

If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, please call 988 immediately.