Appendix 3: Supporting Other Students: Mental Health Resources (Handout 3)
Appendix 3: Supporting Other Students: Mental Health Resources (Handout 3)
Handout 3 is a quick reference guide of mental health resources. The handout provides space for facilitators or participants to fill out the contact information for on-campus and community resources and lists provincial crisis lines. The handout also includes information on how to respond to a student who is in distress and refer them to the appropriate resources.
Download Handout 3: Supporting Other Students: Mental Health Resources [PDF].
The stress of post-secondary education is felt by all students at some point, and it can be overwhelming for some. You may have the opportunity to support other students who are struggling with issues that affect their mental health and well-being. This handout provides tips on how to respond to a student in distress and refer them for further assistance through counselling services or other appropriate resources.
On-Campus and Community Resources
Campus Security:
Counselling Services:
Indigenous Services:
International Student Services:
Accessibility Services:
Student Services:
Pride Centre:
Health Services
Financial Aid:
Sexualized Violence Support:
Equity and Human Rights:
If it’s an emergency, call 911 and then contact campus security (if the student is on campus). If the student is not on campus, call 911 and tell the operator the student’s current location as soon as possible.
Crisis Lines
If you or someone you know needs immediate help, call one of the numbers below:
- Mental Health Support Line: 310-6789 (no need for area code)
- Here2Talk: 1-877-857-3397 – a 24-hour phone and chat counselling support service for B.C. post-secondary students that offers free, confidential counselling and community referral services via app, phone, and web (https://here2talk.ca)
- BC Suicide Line: 1-800-784-2433 (1-800-SUICIDE) – A crisis line for anyone considering suicide or concerned about someone who may be
- KUU-US Crisis Response Services: 1-800-588-8717 – provides culturally safe support, 24/7, for Indigenous people in B.C. (www.kuu-uscrisisline.com/24-hour-crisis-line)
How to Respond to a Distressed Student
APPROACH
- It’s okay to ask questions and express concern.
- Be specific about what you’re concerned about.
- Be aware of cultural and/or gender norms.
“I noticed you were tearful in class today.”
“Is everything okay?”
LISTEN
- Listen in a non-judgmental way.
- Be patient and give your undivided attention.
- Be clear about your concerns and how you can (or cannot) help.
“Is there something I can do to help you?”
SUPPORT
Acknowledge the other student’s thoughts and feelings in a compassionate way.
Offer support and reassurance that you want to help.
“It sounds like you’re feeling overwhelmed.”
How to Refer
- Often, all a student needs is for someone to listen to them. If you think the student could use extra support, you can suggest this and support the student in getting more support.
- It can be helpful to give another student informa