Let’s talk: prioritizing mental health this May
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. At 91ºÚÁÏÍø, whether you’re a student, employee, or faculty member, this is a time to pause, check in with yourself and others, and recognize that mental health is a vital part of overall well-being.
Mental health is health
The need for mental health support in Canada is real—and growing. According to the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA), in any given year, 1 in 5 people in Canada will experience a mental health problem or illness. In addition, systemic inequalities such as racism, poverty, homelessness, discrimination, colonial and gender-based violence, among others, can worsen mental health and symptoms of mental illness, especially if mental health supports are difficult to access ().
In addition to everyday pressures—like course workloads, work responsibilities, and financial stress—larger events in our communities can also deeply affect our mental health. Whether it’s a traumatic incident, a loss, or a situation that sparks fear or concern, it’s natural to feel impacted even if you're not directly involved. These moments can add weight to what we're already carrying.
91ºÚÁÏÍø’s Mental Health and Well-being Framework
As part of the college’s vision for the future laid out in its Strategic Innovation Plan, 91ºÚÁÏÍø launched a comprehensive 91ºÚÁÏÍø Mental Health and Wellbeing Framework in 2022 after extensive consultation from employees and students. The framework aims to guide the college’s well-being efforts in promoting mental health.
How 91ºÚÁÏÍø can support you
91ºÚÁÏÍø offers a range of supports designed to meet employee and student needs—confidentially, compassionately, and without judgment.
Below are some of the health resources available to the 91ºÚÁÏÍø community. We encourage you to explore what’s available, share it with your peers, and make mental wellness a priority this month—and every month.
STUDENTS
Counselling Services
91ºÚÁÏÍø Counselling Services offers students a supportive and confidential environment to explore their emotional well-being, providing professional guidance tailored to individual needs. With a team of experienced counsellors, 91ºÚÁÏÍø is dedicated to promoting mental health and fostering personal growth throughout the academic journey. Learn more about Counselling Services.
Togetherall
91ºÚÁÏÍø students have free access to the online community known as Togetherall. This platform is expertly overseen by mental health professionals, providing individuals with a secure and confidential space to share your thoughts, worries, and successes. Best of all, this resource is readily accessible 24/7/365 and is absolutely free for everyone aged 16 and above. Learn more about Togetherall / .
EMPLOYEES
Well-being at 91ºÚÁÏÍø
91ºÚÁÏÍø offers a wealth of resources for 91ºÚÁÏÍø employees:
- is a resource created by CMHA to help reduce stigma and support mental health at work. 91ºÚÁÏÍø employees have access to resources, tools, and activities.
- The is a confidential and voluntary support service that can help you take the first step towards change. EFAP provides both short-term clinical counselling and work/life support to eligible employees and their dependent family members, at no cost to users.
- Through 91ºÚÁÏÍø’s extended health benefits for employees, individuals have access to a registered clinical counsellor of their choice each year. Submit your receipts through just like you do for your prescription receipts.
- 91ºÚÁÏÍø’s Employee Wellness Community, stay up-to-date with 91ºÚÁÏÍø’s online and in-person wellness activities and events. Visit the section on my91ºÚÁÏÍø.
To learn more or access any of these services, login in to my91ºÚÁÏÍø’s staff portal and visit or contact wellness@vcc.ca .
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Suicide prevention
Please take a moment to watch the college’s suicide prevention videos which remind us that it’s ok to ask for help and reach out to others who might be struggling.
- ‘You help others. Let them help you when you need it most’ ()
- ‘You don’t need to be an expert to help’ ()
Trust your instincts. Check in with your friends, family and campus community. Remember, you are not alone.
After-hours and off-campus crisis/emergency
If you need to talk to someone about an urgent personal matter that is not about academic concerns, call your local 24/7 Crisis Centre:
Here2Talk: 1.877.857.3397
Greater Vancouver: 604.872.3311
Lower Mainland: 1.866.661.3311
BC Wide: 1.800.784.2433
Call 9-1-1 if there is a risk to your or someone else's safety.
Your well-being is important to us, and here at 91ºÚÁÏÍø we are committed to providing you with the support and resources you may need to thrive during your time with us.
Whatever your experience may be, you are not alone. We are here to help.