Surveys show that the mental health of post-secondary students is on the decline. Last year, Lethbridge College participated in the National College Health Assessment (NCHA) – a survey of student health and wellness across all Alberta post-secondaries.
The results are in, and some of the stats may surprise you.
The data shows that Lethbridge College students are facing increased stress and mental health issues. Struggling with finances, sleep difficulties and mental health issues were common themes among the student population.
Compared to NCHA data from 2013, there was a 44 per cent increase in students dealing with depression and a 25 per cent increase in those experiencing anxiety.
According to the college’s on-campus Wellness Services, a student’s health and wellness may have direct impacts on their academic performance.
Wellness Services manager, Harmoni Jones says her team at the Wellness Centre is here to support students both in and out of the classroom.
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“We have multiple services here on campus and we’re able to connect students with outside services as well if need be. We want to give students the tools so they can develop their own strategies too,” Jones said.
Jones recommends any students who are struggling to reach out to the on-campus services.
For some students, reaching out can be a difficult first step. For nursing student Miranda Payne, however, this difficult step was necessary.
“It was a slow build up. I thought I was coping well because I was still showing up to class and getting things done, but it just built up and eventually, I had to do something,” Payne explained.
Payne struggles with depression and anxiety.
The nursing student has tried several different forms of treatment ranging from homeopathic approaches to prescribed medication. However, face to face counselling with a trained professional has been the most effective route for Payne.
“There were a lot of things I just didn’t have the guts to say to my friends or family. I think anyone can benefit from having that unbiased perspective from a counsellor,” said Payne.
Lethbridge College’s on-campus Wellness Centre offers traditional counselling, as well as referrals to other forms of treatment. Services are open to all staff and students at the college at CE1380.
