Website caters to students' mental health

Four northern colleges are launching a website Jan. 28 aimed at reaching out to students on northern campuses who are experiencing difficulties, including mental health issues.

The website, www.bridgingthedistance.com, was developed by Cambrian, Canadore, Confederation and Northern colleges as a tool for students seeking information, for those experiencing difficulties, or for those who need immediate help.

The site includes a list of community resources, as well as information on several of the more common mental illnesses.

Sonia Del Missier, Cambrian College’s interim president, points out that help is available 24/7, whether on or off campus.

“Students are not alone,” she said, in a press release.

“We have staff and community resources to help students learn coping strategies, and to provide information on treatment and intervention options.

"Our goal is to ensure that students are happy with their lives and decisions, and to see that they succeed at school and in their personal lives. A diagnosis is definitely not a life sentence.”

Students living away from home for the first time, Aboriginal students from First Nations communities, and international students may need special support, according to a press release from Cambrian.

New experiences can be daunting, and for some people, may lead to social isolation, depression and anxiety.

The website is being launched on Bell Let's Talk Day.

This is a nation-wide initiative that brings together community members, including colleges, to discuss mental health, reduce stigma, and educate the public on the resources in place.

Cambrian has also organized special events in honour of Bell Let's Talk Day. Counsellors will also be available to students on campus.

For more information, visit www.Bell.ca/LetsTalk.