#LetsTalkUTM: Join the campus conversation about mental health
UTM will hold its first-ever mental health fair this week with a day-long event for students, staff and faculty to learn more about mental health resources and supports on campus and in the community. #LetsTalkUTM takes place on Wednesday, Jan. 31 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. in the CCT Atrium. Organized by the Peer Health Ambassadors with UTM’s Health & Counselling Centre, the event features a photo exhibit, resources fair, a social media campaign and free self-care packages for participants.
“We want to raise awareness and make a welcoming space that students can feel encouraged to visit,” says Ravi Gabble, health education coordinator with the Health & Counselling Centre. “This event presents the people behind the services to help remove perceived barriers around accessing support.”
UTM’s Health & Counselling Centre staff will be on hand to demystify counselling and answer common questions about how to make an appointment, what happens at a counselling appointment and some of the topics that might be talked about. Other support services will also be on hand to discuss options that can help to ease common stressors. “Mental health is related so many different things, such as finances, academics or physical health,” Gabble says. “It’s important to take a holistic approach."
After the mental health fair, UTM outreach will continue with a campus-wide poster campaign, on social media. “It’s not just one day of the year--mental health is an everyday thing,” Gabble says.
“Mental health is something that impacts everyone. It’s important to speak openly about the challenges we sometimes encounter, and speak openly about seeking help,” Gabble says. “We want to provide a forum where people can explore those services. You’re not alone. It’s okay to ask for help. There are people here at UTM who can help you.”