Myriad services available to cover mental and physical health

Photo: Contributed

Whether it’s loneliness, anxiety, or illness, UBCO’s Student Wellness Centre is back up and running to help students find the services they need.

As UBC Okanagan’s campus filled up with students earlier this month, staff in UBCO’s Student Wellness Centre made sure they were ready to welcome students.

Roger Wilson, director of UBCO’s Student Wellness Centre, describes some of the services available to students when classes resumed in September.

"Why is self-care an important requisite for learning at university? Our number one priority is student success. And to succeed, they must feel healthy and be in a positive state of mind."

"We offer a clinic with primary health services; this includes a physician, nurse practitioner, RN’s and health office assistants. The counselling team provides personal and group options and the campus health team provide students with opportunities to support other students in developing a healthy campus. The Disability Resource Centre works with students and faculty to ensure that all students have an equitable approach to learning."

UBC’s Student Assistance Program (SAP), offered by Aspiria, is a free, 24/7 wellness resource for students.

"Beyond SAP, we provide mental health support. Our counsellors provide a space for students to examine and explore behaviours, relationships, feelings or thoughts that cause concern or challenges in their life," Wilson added.

Services include personal counselling, life coaching, group programs, fitness and nutrition, as well as some financial tips such as budgeting or saving.

Users have the choice of contact through phone, video, face to face (where available), and instant messaging or chat counselling.

SAP services are provided in more than 180 languages and are a safe, confidential space for our students.