To promote mental health awareness and empower students to prioritize their well-being, Durham College (DC) hosted a resource event, as part of Wellness Week. The event, timed to coincide with Bell Let’s Talk Day, underscored the importance of seeking help and fostering open conversations about mental health and connected attendees to vital mental health supports and services.

DC’s Campus Health and Wellness Centre (CHWC) partnered with local organizations to offer welcoming booths, engaging activities, and opportunities for students and employees to learn about counseling, crisis support, and self-care strategies.

“The resource event was a powerful reminder of the strength in community and connection,” said Ahil Nageswaran, Mental Health Services Manager at the CHWC. “It not only highlighted the extensive resources available at Durham College but also encouraged open conversations about mental health, helping to reduce stigma and build a supportive campus environment.”

DC’s Wellness Week also featured yoga and meditation sessions, a gratitude wall for sharing positive messages, interactive workshops on managing stress, and opportunities for students to participate in art therapy and mindfulness activities. First-year Developmental Services Worker student, Evneet Kaur, says initiatives like these are important as she made her way around the resource event.

“Events like this are really wonderful, being a student there are moments where we feel down, so by having these resources we know we have some help,” she shared. “This awareness is really important for everyone and also in this generation we have so much stress about like work and our studies, I really like this about the college, how they support us in every way.”

DC’s commitment to mental health extends far beyond Wellness Week. The college’s holistic approach to well-being is evident in its Wellness Directory, which provides a comprehensive overview of the Eight Dimensions of Wellness. From physical and emotional to social and financial wellness, DC ensures the campus community has the tools it needs to thrive.

Programs like peer support services, group workshops, and one-on-one counseling are readily accessible, while initiatives such as nature themed activities and stress-management sessions create regular opportunities for students to practice self-care. Additionally, the CHWC collaborates with community organizations, such as Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, and Public Health, year-round to enhance the breadth and depth of mental health services available to students.

The success of this year’s Wellness Week underscores DC’s dedication to fostering a culture of care and resilience. By prioritizing mental health and encouraging open dialogue, the college continues to create an inclusive environment where students and employees feel empowered to succeed.

For more information on mental health services and wellness programs at DC, visit the CHWC online.