Mental Health is a state of well-being. World Health Organization, 2014
Our mental health strategy is for everyone: every learner and every employee. Mental health promotion can include creating and taking steps to enhance supports for mental health, either through direct or indirect means, such as services or education and awareness. Mental health promotion contributes to the betterment of all aspects of society and the functioning of individuals in their everyday lives such as work and education (WHO, 2004).
Why now? The well-being of the NorQuest College community affects the health and success of NorQuest College. “Mental health and well-being are fundamental to our collective and individual ability as humans to think, emote, interact with each other, earn a living and enjoy life” (“Investing in Mental Health”, 2013, p. 5). It affects the success of our students and the work of our employees.
A Mental Health Strategy for All
Post-secondary institutions in Alberta, Canada, and beyond are recognizing the need for mental health strategies to promote mental health awareness, well-being, and crisis management. These issues plus mounting student enrolments at NorQuest suggest we be proactive in our approach towards mental health.
NorQuest College's Mental Health Strategy
In spring 2019, NorQuest College struck a Mental Health Working Group comprised of learners and employees to develop and recommend a college-wide mental health strategy to the institution.
As a college, we are facing this unprecedented challenge together. The Wellness team has put together some resources that promote mental well-being, including reminders of existing NorQuest College resources that individuals can access during this time.
“If we focus on awareness first, we can help individuals who might have a crisis at some point in their lives. We really need to emphasize education and awareness.” NorQuest student
Information for employees can be accessed on The Q, email and through:
“The stigma about mental health is one of the largest obstacles. ‘Just man up’. How many clichés can you think of that we have all heard?” NorQuest student
The following are general resources that can be accessed free of charge:
“Early intervention can start with listening or a conversation”. NorQuest employee
If you are in a mental health crisis and require immediate support, call: