Success through wellness
The University of Manitoba is committed to being a part of the movement to change how we talk about, act towards and support mental health issues in Canada. In 2014 the U of M launched a new mental health strategy called Success through Wellness. This program is a call to action for the entire University community to view the promotion and support of mental health as our collective responsibility.
The strategy focuses equally on students, staff and faculty members, examining all aspects of the university and identifying ways in which we can be a community that is committed, caring, healthy, responsive, supportive and resourceful.
There are a number of programs and services that have been established to support students, staff and faculty. Promoting and supporting mental health and well-being will reap tremendous rewards, including a more positive work and learning environment, improved performance and productivity, enhanced student experience, greater staff retention and reduced absenteeism.
Support for students
University can be an exciting time, but along the way students may be confronted with stress, anxiety and other challenges. Programs and services have been established to help support students during these challenging times.
The Student Counselling Centre provides personal counselling as well as support groups and workshops to current U of M students. Professional counselors are available to provide support and problem-solving assistance for emotional difficulties, interpersonal problems, stressful life situations and career indecision. Groups and workshops are a great way for students to work through and take action on questions or challenges they may have.
The Health and Wellness program seeks to support students with a number of programs and events that promote healthy lifestyles. Not only are students asked to write scholarly papers and memorize ample amounts of information, they are also ensuring that they have adequate funds to cover tuition costs, rent and food expenses; trying to stay physically healthy by eating a well-balanced diet and exercising; maintaining healthy relationships with loved ones and perhaps enduring a pre-existing physical or mental health condition that may cause its own challenges.
Peers: Student Helping Students is a program jointly funded by UMSU and Student Affairs. The program is a volunteer-based, confidential resource for students who have questions, need to talk to someone about personal issues, want information on different issues or topics or have academic questions or concerns.
Support for staff
A healthy workplace is more than just a physically safe environment. Important elements of a healthy workplace are supportive workplace cultures and practices that promote good mental health and prevent mental injury.
To support the mental health needs of employees, the Employee and Family Assistance Program (EAP) was established to provide confidential and easy-to-sue resources to all employees and their family members. Through a number of channels (online, phone and mobile app) employees have access to the counseling and support that they require.