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Reaching Out

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Image shows hands reaching toward each other with the sun shining behind them.

As mentioned in last month’s blog post entitled “Taking Care”, a recent national survey has indicated that mental health issues are rising among post-secondary students.

In September’s blog on the subject, we outlined the services provided at the Cranbrook campus by our counsellor, George Dunne.  But we realize not all of our students are located on the Cranbrook campus so wanted to take a look at what is available for those students who attend the College at a regional campus – or online.

Students in distress are best served within their own communities by someone who can meet with them face-to-face. For that reason, faculty and staff at each of our regional campuses are equipped with and familiar with a list of mental health and other resources available in their community.

If you are a student at a regional campus who is experiencing social, emotional or personal concerns, talk to your instructor, the education advisor at your campus or a trusted staff member.  That person can then work with you to find the best community resource for you to connect with.

Online students may or may not reside in a College of the Rockies community and your instructor may or may not be in the same community as you are.  If you do live in any of our regional campus locations, an education advisor or trusted staff member at the campus can assist you in finding the help you need.

If you are an online student who does not reside in any of our campus locations, College staff are unlikely to be familiar with the specific resources in your community.  In case of urgent need, your nearest Crisis Line is available 24 hours/day, 7 days a week.  For less urgent matters, please contact your local Mental Health Centre, Resource Centre, or talk to your doctor.  For after-hours urgent response, please go to your nearest hospital emergency department.

It is important to remember that seeking out help is a sign of strength, not weakness.  Counselling can help put your problems in perspective and make them more manageable.  Talking about your concerns in a confidential and supportive environment can make a world of difference.