Students from far and wide move away from home for the very first time to obtain a post-secondary education, but being far from home can be tough to deal with.

According to the Canadian Alliance of Student Associations, as of 2016, 44% of students surveyed so depressed, it was affecting their ability to even function.

Students around the country are moving away from home for the very first time to begin their post-secondary career. Kenzie Dobb, an upgrading Lethbridge College student, moved from home to begin her education for the very first time.

“It was hard. I hated living with roommates; I’m very anti-social. I felt forced to make friends with these people, but I just couldn’t.”

Finding ways to cope wasn’t easy, but once Dobb found them, she found the coping strategies very helpful.

“I would draw or hangout with my boyfriend, or someone I knew. It would help me a lot.”

Lethbridge College has been doubling its efforts to improve its mental health services with Shepell Counselling Services located on campus.

Shepell Counselling Services can be accessed if students are experiencing mental health concerns, need help with managing stress or any other personal issues they might be experiencing.

The college also offers multiple workshops throughout the school year, offering tips, tricks and suggestions for students to manage their assignment workload, procrastination, and time management.

Students can also access mental health evaluations through the Lethbridge College website and book appointments at Shepell Counselling Services.

For more information on what Lethbridge College offers students needing help with mental health, visit www.lethbridgecollege.ca/departments/wellness-services