More students are seeking assistance for mental health concerns at Mount Allison University.
Mental Heath Educator Melissa Baxter says there has been 26 per cent increase in the number of students who have asked for assistance at their Wellness Centre.
340 students sought help in the current school year. In the 2015-2016 school year, there were 248 students.
She says there are a variety of reasons why services were needed, “Students are presenting with anxiety disorders, depression, stress due to exams and workloads and relationship issues. The transition to university can be difficult for some students.”
Baxter adds the age of onset for mental illness is typically between 18 and 25, which is the usual age of post secondary students.
She believes the stigma attached to mental health issues has also reduced slightly, and students are more comfortable coming forward to talk about it.
Baxter adds, they have a full staff of professionals who are willing to help those who need it, “We have two full time clinical Social Workers, three Psychologists, a Psychiatrist, Massage therapists, Registered Nurse, two Physicians, Reflexology, and Acupuncturist.”
Mount Allison University has a total of around 2300 students.
This is Canadian Mental Health Week.
