As a university, we all have a role to play in the health and wellness of our students. The Carleton University Student Mental Health Framework 2022- 2026 outlines four areas of focus comprising 12 objectives and 30 recommendations. We look forward to continuing engagement from faculty, staff, students, and external community partners in the implementation of these recommendations.
We are committed to further evolving our Student Mental Health Framework to highlight a more holistic approach to student mental health and wellness by further incorporating spirituality, substance use health, Indigenous ways of healing, cyberbullying prevention, and pedagogy in addition to our already extensive programming and expanded counselling support.
The development of this Framework was influenced by the complexity of global challenges that were present at the time of its creation. Notably, the COVID-19 pandemic has had significant impacts on the mental health and wellness of all members of our community. We know there will be many more challenges on the road ahead but are confident that this Framework will guide us in supporting our students as we transition back to in-person classes, support services, and social engagements. Ensuring that equity, diversity, inclusion, accessibility, and Indigenous perspectives are woven into the fabric of this document and any related work plans remains a priority.
We know there is still much work to be done, and we are committed to ensuring that the implementation of the recommendations in this Framework aligns with these values and takes an intersectional approach to mental health and wellness for all members of our community.
