INTRODUCTION TO MENTAL HEALTHIn this introductory module, you will learn how mental health and mental illness are distinct, but interconnected concepts. You will learn about the basic fundamentals of mental health, including
Important terms and concepts, risk factors for the development of mental illness, delivery of mental health care in Canada, and different levels and barriers to help-seeking. Throughout the module, we'll emphasize real-world application of these ideas and concepts to the post-secondary student context. |
MENTAL HEALTH AND STIGMAIn this module, you will learn about the different types of stigma, as well as the broader impact that stigma can have on individuals living with mental illnesses.
Generally, stigma is a negative connotation associated with a circumstance or quality. Stigma is not only an issue due to its effects on the mental health of individuals living with a mental illness, but is also considered to be one of the greatest barriers to the development of mental health programs and help-seeking worldwide. |
MENTAL HEALTH AND INTERSECTIONALITYThis module examines intersectionality, a framework for understanding how overlapping identities, such as race, gender, disability, and sexuality, interact with systems of privilege and oppression. It explores the experiences of marginalized communities, including BIPOC, Indigenous, disabled, and 2SLGBTQIA+ populations, and the barriers they may face. The module also looks at how these intersections can impact mental health and well-being, considering factors like socioeconomic status, education, and systemic discrimination.
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INTRO TO MENTAL HEALTH POLICYThroughout this module, you will be introduced to the organization of the Canadian healthcare system and the history of mental health policy in Canada. You will also learn to appreciate the unique roles in both the provincial and federal governments on health policy and Canada’s overall health care system. There are also various levels to healthcare, including publicly and privately funded services. Finally, you will be introduced to policy specifically pertaining to post-secondary students like yourselves.
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SELF-CARE AND BUILDING RESILIENCEThis module will introduce you to the concepts of self-care and resilience. These are separate but related concepts, with good self-care practices contributing to building resilience. Self-care reduces stress and anxiety, boosts self-esteem, and builds resilience against difficult situations. This module provides an overview of both these concepts, giving self-care strategies and resources, and information on building your personal resilience.
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MANAGING STRESSThis module contains an overview to the concepts of stress and psychological distress and highlights sources of stress (i.e., stressors) for Canadian post-secondary students based on recent research.
Throughout this module, you will learn to differentiate between the terms "stress", "stressors", "eustress", and "distress", and to gain an understanding of common stressors associated with the post-secondary environment. You will also learn about activities and strategies you can implement to aid with stress reduction across multiple areas of life. |
SUBSTANCE MISUSE AND HARM REDUCTIONSubstance use disorders and addictions are highly stigmatized, misunderstood, and can be an intimidating topic to bring up. However, given their prevalence in society, it is important to become educated on the effects of drugs, and the difference between substance use, misuse and addiction.
In this module, you will learn about common substances used by postsecondary populations, how to tell if your use is problematic, and how to reduce harms. |
MENTAL HEALTH AND SOCIAL MEDIAThe purpose of this module is to review both the positive and negative aspects of social media, identify signs that social media may be having a negative impact on your mental health (and steps you can take to reduce negative impact), share tips for positive social media use and intake, and begin a discussion on how mental health itself is often represented through social media.
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GRADUATE STUDENT MENTAL HEALTHGraduate students have unique experiences compared to undergraduate students, however, research on this population is limited. They experience high rates of mental illnesses (e.g., anxiety and depression) and are often overwhelmed, exhausted, and burnt out, often more so than the undergraduate population.
This module covers common mental health experiences and stressors among graduate students, containing resources and coping strategies tailored to this population. It also contains information about supervisory relationships and professional development throughout your graduate school experience. |
INDIGENOUS HEALTH AND WELLBEINGThis module explores the concept of mental wellness, emphasizing its connection to the Medicine Wheel and the importance of balance in the emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual aspects of life. It differentiates between mental wellness and mental illness while highlighting key risk factors that influence mental health, including social, psychological, and biological elements. The topics discussed encourage promoting life and overall well-being through cultural connections, traditions, and spirituality as well as embracing the Seven Grandfather Teachings to support a healthier, more balanced life.
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MENTAL HEALTH FOR FIRST YEAR STUDENTSFirst-year post-secondary students are at increased risk for deteriorating mental health and the subsequent development of symptoms consistent with common mental illnesses like anxiety and depression.
This module will walk you through many different and competing stressors you are likely to experience during your first year of studies, including those related to your academics, personal life, and social life. You will be introduced to a variety of coping methods and strategies for enhancing your resilience in the face of these challenges. |
MENTAL HEALTH FOR STUDENT ATHLETESThis module is coming soon!
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GRIEF AND MENTAL HEALTHGrieving is a large emotional milestone that may take many forms; family loss, friendship loss, breakups etc. It is an intense feeling of loss, regret, or guilt and is a lengthy process to work through. It is very important you find the right coping mechanisms that work best for you. Grieving is a natural emotion and is highly complex.
Work through this module to explore the complexities of grieving and how we can cope with our own feelings and support others who are experiencing these emotions. |
BODY IMAGE AND DISORDERED EATINGThis module will introduce the differences and interconnections between eating disorders and disordered eating. You will learn about the different types of eating disorders - their signs, symptoms, risk factors, and treatment. You will also learn how to identify eating disorders in yourself or others and how to best support someone with an eating disorder. Risk factors and factors that make one susceptible to eating disorders will be outlined and explained. Finally, resources will be provided to support those with eating disorders or those who are looking to support a loved one with an eating disorder.
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HELP-SEEKING AND SUPPORTING OTHERSThis module is coming soon!
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