In the bustling halls of academia, a silent struggle often goes unnoticed. Many students grapple with mental health issues, camouflaged amidst deadlines, lectures, and extracurriculars. The role of staff must extend beyond instruction to include vigilant observation, compassionate understanding, and guiding students towards vital resources such as keep.meSAFE.
Unmasking the Hidden Struggle
The Canadian National College Health Assessment (2019) found that 52% of students reported feeling hopeless, while 69% experienced overwhelming anxiety in the last year. [1] Furthermore, approximately 13% had seriously considered suicide. These alarming figures highlight the urgent need to address mental health issues among our student population.
Decoding the Signs
Recognizing signs of mental health struggles is key. These may include frequent absences, decreased academic performance, social withdrawal, drastic changes in weight, erratic behaviour, or self-harm references. Remember, these signs might not always be overt and can often be misattributed to typical student stress.
The keep.meSAFE Solution
keep.meSAFE provides students with immediate access to mental health support 24/7, assuring them of a safe space to voice their concerns. This program is available on multiple platforms, allowing for easy and confidential access. A 2022 Morneau Shepell report indicated that 80% of students who used keep.meSAFE felt an improvement in their mental well-being. [2]
Fostering a Supportive Campus Environment
As campus staff, we have the power to create a culture that recognizes and proactively addresses mental health. By promoting resources like keep.meSAFE and fostering an open dialogue about mental health, we can contribute to a more understanding and supportive environment.
Resource Awareness and Active Assistance
Our role extends beyond mere academic guidance to supporting the holistic well-being of our students. Recognizing signs of mental health struggles, promoting resources like keep.meSAFE, and actively assisting students through their challenges is integral to this endeavour.
Through consistent engagement, we can help nurture an environment where students feel heard, understood, and supported, empowering them to take control of their mental health.
Let us make a difference today. Promote keep.meSAFE. Show students that their mental health matters to us. Their well-being is not just a part of the campus conversation but a priority that needs our immediate attention and action.
References:
[1] American College Health Association. (2019). Canadian National College Health Assessment. Silver Spring, MD: American College Health Association.
[2] Morneau Shepell (2022). keep.meSAFE Student Impact Report. Toronto, ON: Morneau Shepell.
