Students at Laurentian University have a new option that contributes to their personal mental health.
The university said a new Peer Wellness Program has just been developed where students can help fellow students with personal issues as well as fostering a more welcoming climate on campus for people with mental health challenges.
"Mental health matters," said a news release from the university.
LU said students are making a significant positive impact toward the well being of fellow students. Already, there are several resources and services available. This includes student counselling.
Health and wellness services are available to all students, faculty and staff.
Accessibility services are also available for students with physical challenges. Students can also take advantage of the Equity, Diversity and Human Rights office (EDHRO), which is open to everyone at the university.
Along with all of the services mentioned above, the new peer program "will contribute exponentially to student mental health and wellness. The program is in its early stages of implementation, and is already gaining traction on campus," said the news release.
LU students Kayla Dibblee and Amalia Secenj are among those who have contributed to the development of this program, said LU.
Dibblee is a Master’s student in Social Work and a Physical and Health Education and Education alumna. Secenj is completing her final semester of the Health Promotion program.
Secenji explained the new program.
“It’s about providing guidance and creating goals to help support mental health and de-stigmatize mental health on campus. It’s about the development of peer support relationships amongst students," she said.
The program hopes to uplift the voices of student communities on campus in respectful and empathetic ways, said LU. It is designed to complement existing professional services on campus. To date, more than 40 students have signed up to become peer supporters. Notably, not only will peer-to-peer relationships be fostered amongst students by the program, but supportive resources are equally made available online.
Dibblee said there is great value in having the peer-to-peer support concept.
"Power and knowledge comes from lived experience, and students, especially those equipped with the right training, can often provide excellent support for fellow students. They understand the student experience, as they themselves live this experience," she said.
