Five students hanging out in front of Gryphon statue with blue background

World Mental Health Day – October 10, 2025

On October 10th, World Mental Health Day, let us stand together as a U of G community to break the stigma and support each other in creating a Healthy Campus. You are not alone. Addressing mental health starts by:

  • Getting help
  • Safeguarding your well-being
  • Expanding your understanding, and
  • Supporting each other

Being a student is tough, and we encourage students to access the resources and supports needed to improve their mental health. For some, that might mean accessing formal supports such as counselling – but for everyone, building skills and taking care of ourselves is also a key part of the academic journey.  

Safeguard Your Well-being 

Your mental health matters. Building healthy coping skills can help you persevere through difficult and stressful times. There are hundreds of social groups and free programs across campus for students that can help you make connections, stay active and prioritize self-care.

Staying Active

Moving your body promotes the release of "feel good" brain chemicals (the neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine), which can improve your mood, reduce stress, and help you sleep better. Students can access Drop-in Recreation activities (such as badminton, skating and basketball) and On-Demand Fitness Classes for FREE (as part of your student fees). Clubs (such as climbing, cycling and cricket) are low-cost and a great way to meet people with shared interests. 

Building Community

Relating to others over shared interests and experiences can provide a sense of belonging. Remember that building connections takes time and effort, and there are a variety of clubs and social groups that can help you meet new people, build community or get involved on campus. OUTline offers weekly events for LGBTQ2IA+ students to connect over shared hobbies (such as book clubs and lego lunches) and through conversations and support circles. 

Need Mental Health Support? 

  • Not sure where to start? Meet with a Wellness Navigator to discuss your mental health concerns, identify the best support for you, and plan next steps. To book an appointment, call 519-824-4120 x52131 or visit uoguel.ph/navigators
  • Need someone to talk to? The Student Support Network is a daily drop-in where you can get peer support from trained U of G students, who will provide a listening ear and referrals to campus resources. Available in-person and virtual, with options for Grad Students and Black, Racialized and Students of Colour. Visit uoguel.ph/SSN for hours and location
  • After Hours & Urgent Support
    • Good2Talk: Support for post-secondary students in Ontario, text "GOOD2TALKON" to 686868
    • 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline: Support for yourself or someone you are worried about, call or text 988
    • Guelph-Wellington Women in Crisis: Sexual & gender-based violence support for people of all genders, call 519-836-5710