Accessing mental health support

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, Student Wellness Services has a new distance strategy to help you access support.

Note: If you are in immediate distress, contact one of Student Wellness Services’ after-hours partners.

Getting connected

To get started, simply email sar@ucalgary.ca.             

You can keep your email simple – just your student ID, preferred method for initial contact (e.g., email, phone, video chat) and, if possible, your availability for an appointment. A mental health team member will gather more information when they connect with you.

Once you’ve sent your email, a team member will connect with you in one to two business days:

• If you’re new to Student Wellness Services or haven’t been connected with someone in a few months, a student support advisor will schedule an intake session.
• If you’re a recent client, a student support advisor will connect you with your counsellor.

You can also access online learning through D2L or attend a wellness workshop at any time without a referral.

What to expect from your appointment

Unlike therapy apps, distance support through Student Wellness connects you directly with a member of our mental health team by phone and live video chat. They can help you find positive ways to cope, enhance strengths, increase confidence in your academic ability, and help with navigating systems on and off campus.

At the end of your appointment, you’ll make a follow-up plan together to support your well-being.

Common next steps include:

• accessing online learning through D2L*
• attending a virtual workshop*
• booking a follow-up appointment
• receiving a referral to off-campus services
• booking a single session counselling appointment
• receiving a referral to brief, individual counselling
• receiving a referral to a physician

After your appointment, your student support advisor will be available to answer any questions about your wellness plan and help you make changes if needed.

Learn more, including how to prepare for and get the most out of your appointment.