Peer-Based Mental Health Support

The Counselling Centre’s student staff play a crucial role in supporting student mental health. All student staff are trained and receive ongoing support from The Counselling Centre. They host a variety of programming, including one-on-one support, chat-and-chill style events, art drop-ins, and more! 

Student staff roles include Peer Supporters and the 2SLBGTQIA+ Wellness Ambassadors. Roles are active from September to April, annually. 

Mental Health Peer Support 

Peer Supporters are trained upper-year students who offer one-on-one mental health support. Peer Supporters have lived experience with mental health and understand the challenges of being a student. The Peer Support Program is confidential and open to all students. You can meet with a Peer Supporter during their drop-in office hours to discuss whatever is on your mind, whether that is stress, relationship issues, mental health, etc. Peer Supporters can help you learn resiliency and coping strategies as well as assist in finding other resources. 

Email: Peer.Support@smu.ca

The 2SLGBTQIA+ Wellness Ambassador hosts wellness-related programs for the Queer and Trans community at Saint Mary’s. Join them for the bi-weekly Queer and Cozy Crafts and Games to meet others in the community! You can also chat one-on-one with them about your experiences, gender affirming care resources in the community, name change forms/processes and more. 

The Student Wellness Champion provides mental health supports and resources to help students manage stress, reduce anxiety, and navigate challenges. They offer mental health and wellness programming, support navigation, and awareness programming. Talk to them to learn more about what services are available on campus, in the community, and through the province.