Lethbridge College (left) and the University of Lethbridge (right). (Supplied by Lethbridge College and University of Lethbridge)

By David Opinko

Lethbridge College and U of L receive funding to continue mental health programs

Dec 9, 2019 | 12:04 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – While post-secondary institutions were hit hard by the latest provincial budget, students struggling with mental health can rest assured that they can still get the support they need.

On November 27th, the Government of Alberta announced $22-million in grants for 26 colleges and universities.

Dr. Mark Slomp, Executive Director of Student Services at the University of Lethbridge, says they are again receiving $1,000,000 for a variety of services and programs.

“We have been using the funds to support: additional counselors in our counselling department, extended counselling hours, mental health outreach, workshops and Indigenous Talking Circles on mental health topics, support for survivors of sexual violence, and programs like Mental Health First Aid and the Inquiring Minds program.”

The University has received $1-million per year since 2013 from the Mental Health Grant.

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As for Lethbridge College, this is the second time they will be getting funds from the grant.

Last year, the college got $355,000, but this time, they will benefit from $220,000.

Manager of Wellness Services at Lethbridge College Harmoni Jones says some of these include the continuation of a Policy & Procedure Review and Development with a lens of mental health and implementing new mental health screening software.

Last year, the college introduced a partnership between wellness services and the Digital Communications and Media program.

It has students develop articles, social media posts, posters, and videos that highlight different elements of mental health.

“I think the real importance is that it’s using that student voice to also target our students with the messages to increase support or access support regarding these issues as well as to help with prevention.”

Some of the other initiatives supported by the grant at the college include making the Student Support Specialist a permanent and full-time position, an Active Health Program for those wanting to improve their physical and mental health, holding Intercultural Competence Training for student volunteers and employees, and Global Night, an event that focuses on the successes of students.