How to Help a Student - Student Affairs
Student Affairs appreciates the concern that faculty, staff, family members, and friends have for the well-being of students, and our team values the role each person plays in identifying students who are experiencing difficulty.
- Find academic support
- Contact an academic program counsellor
- Make an appointment with Student Health Services
- Make an appointment with the Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Support Centre
- Make a religious accommodation request for a major holy day
- Schedule a counselling session with Counselling Services
Recognizing the signs of emotional distress
Recognizing the signs of emotional distress and responding with interest and concern could be a critical factor in helping students resolve problems that are interfering with their academic and personal achievement.
- How should I respond to a student in distress?
- What training is available concerning mental health?
- What training is available concerning sexual violence?
Additional Support Services for Students
The following non-emergency services are also available to students (undergraduate and graduate) enrolled at the University of Guelph:
Student Wellness Navigators are a first point of contact for students seeking mental health support for the first time at the University of Guelph. In a 30-minute appointment, a navigator will discuss concerns and identify appropriate services and supports, helping students to coordinate a plan. Appointments are booked by calling the Health Services Reception Desk at 519-824-4120 Ext. 52131.
Counselling Services offers several resources, including both individual and group counselling to support students as they work through personal challenges that affect their ability to succeed at school and in other areas of their lives. Appointments can be booked by calling the Health Services Reception Desk at 519-824-4120 Ext. 53244.
In case the unexpected occurs and a student experiences unforeseen financial strain, it is encouraged that students reach out to Student Financial Services to explore potential avenues of assistance. It is best to seek help promptly, as early financial counselling can help to alleviate stress, address urgent financial difficulties, and aid students in creating future plans. Counsellors in Student Financial Services are available to assist. Please visit the Student Financial Services website for information on making an appointment.
International Undergraduate In-Course Bursaries
These bursaries are intended to assist international students that are experiencing an unforeseen and/or unexpected financial situation or emergency. To apply you must complete the Undergraduate Financial Need Assessment Form for International Students by the deadline dates listed below. Students will be notified of their eligibility by email from the Student Awards office.
- Students must have completed a minimum of one year of study before they can apply for a University of Guelph International Bursary.
- Fall semester bursary application deadline is November 1.
- Winter semester bursary application deadline is March 1.
- Summer semester bursary application deadline is July 2.
- Students who require immediate assistance must speak with the International Student Advisor in Student Experience.
Student Crisis Text Line is a free crisis text line that offers mental health support whenever needed via text and is powered by Kids Help Phone. To connect with the service, text “UofG” to the following number: 686868.
Good2Talk Help Line is a free, bilingual, and confidential post-secondary student mental health helpline. Good2Talk offers professional counselling, information and referrals for mental health, addictions, and well-being to Ontario post-secondary students 24/7/365. To connect with the service, call 1-866-925-5454.
Here 24/7 provides connections to addictions, mental health and crisis services provided by 11 agencies across Waterloo and Wellington regions, and will assist with intake, assessment, referral and booking processes to these important programs. To connect with the service call 1-844-437-3247 (1-844-HERE247) or visit the Here 24/7 website.
SSN is comprised of a group of trained students who provide anonymous support, assistance, and referrals to students seeking peer counselling. For more information, please visit the online booking page.
MFRT works collaboratively, and within their own faith traditions, to explore questions of meaning, purpose, belonging and identity. For contact and service information, please visit the MFRT webpage, or call 1-519-824-4120 Ext. 58909.