$1.8 Million has been Committed to Increasing Mental Health Support at MacEwan University
If you are experiencing mental distress, do not hesitate to contact MacEwan’s 24/7 Distress Line at 780-482-4357 (Toll-free: 1-800-232-7288).
On Jan., 17, 2025, Dr. Annette Trimbee, MacEwan’s president, announced there will be an additional $1.8 million in funding towards MacEwan’s mental health support to help tackle the increasing number of students struggling with mental distress.
In the announcement, Dr. Trimbee reflected on mental health awareness from her childhood and related it to today. Dr. Trimbee said there had been a dramatic shift in society and that mental health awareness has dramatically improved.
“Many of our students are in their 20s, a time marked by change and challenges.” She added, “They are juggling a variety of stressors such as finances, academic pressure, time management, accessible houses, and loneliness.”
According to Dr. Trimbee, the number of counselling appointments has increased by a staggering 148 per cent in the past three years. MacEwan University has responded by committing $1.8 million to MacEwan’s mental health support services to address these concerns.
Grace Girard, a Professional Communications student, reflected on how she manages her mental health with a busy workload.
“Taking a lot of breaks helps to push me to get those few things done.” She said. “Students face a lot of stress with an overload of work when taking 4-5 classes.”
Regarding more services, Girard added, “As long as the funding does not cause a raise in tuition, then I think this will benefit those services.”
MacEwan Students looking for more information on mental health services on campus are advised to go online to explore additional support.
Trimbee closed her announcement by saying “Let’s commit to taking time to connect with our friends, students, and colleagues and learn how to support one another.”
MacEwan’s mental health services offer a wide range of campus resources, such as a free personal wellness app, counselling, various workshops and different events.
Students can participate in an upcoming event, safeTALK Suicide Alertness Training, occurring Feb., 13, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
