Nurturing Minds Together: Mental Health Week at AUSU

As a post-secondary student, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and forget the importance of nurturing our mental and emotional well-being. That’s why AUSU is excited to share information and resources created by the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) to help you cultivate a more compassionate and fulfilling life.

Our day-to-day lives are filled with events and emotions we have little control over. However, we can control how we perceive and engage with these challenges. Adopting a self-compassionate approach can significantly improve our well-being and ability to navigate life’s ups and downs.

Mental Health Week in Canada

For Mental Health Week, May 6-12, the CMHA will launch their campaign, A Call to Be Kind, promoting the power of self-compassion, a practice that encourages treating yourself with the same kindness you would offer to a friend or family member. It means acknowledging our struggles without judgment, offering ourselves comfort, and recognizing that experiencing challenges is a part of the human condition.

Mental Health Support for AU Students

AU has partnered with Carepath Digital Health to offer AU students a support program that promotes prevention and early intervention for mental health issues.

If you are struggling and need support, call Carepath’s support line (1-855-491-5744) during the day or access online resources 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from carepathdigitalhealth.ca using your mobile device or computer.

Carepath’s counselling services are provided by registered mental health professionals and are available in over 300 languages. These services and resources are available for all active AU students as part of your wellness support program.

Self-Compassion in Practice

But how can you start practicing self-compassion in your everyday life? It’s simpler than you might think. The CMHA provides easy-to-follow strategies, from taking moments to breathe deeply to enjoying a walk in your favourite park. It’s about celebrating your resilience and creating a positive environment for personal growth.

To support your journey, they’ve also included a one-page journal to document your daily acts of compassion towards yourself and others. Whether it’s complimenting yourself, assisting a family member, or contributing to your community, every act of kindness counts.

Let’s make compassion a part of our daily lives, extending it from ourselves to those around us, and our broader community. Take the first step towards a more compassionate and resilient life today. We’re here to support you every step of the way.