Mental health is very important and should be taken care of constantly. With huge amounts of homework, tests, quizzes, projects, papers, and many other assignments required by classes, time management can be incredibly difficult for students. In student life, time can be almost as valuable as a diamond ring.
Camosun students might not know about all the ways the college community helps students with their difficulties. For example, theere is the Camosun Wellness Club, a group created by Camosun student ambassadors Theresa Wanninger and Amanda Robertson. Wanninger and Robertson decided that instead of just hosting events, they would create a club that students could participate in and be a part of.
“We basically wanted to host a student wellness club meeting, so students can always have their opinions on what sort of events they would like to see that are centred around mental health and wellness, if they would like more workshops or more resources, and things like that,” says Wanninger, who is the Camosun recreation and wellness student ambassador.
Students are sometimes afraid to reach out and ask for help, as it can be a very personal topic to talk about. Wanninger encourages students to attend a club meeting with a friend. The meetings are not mandatory and usually take around two hours, but people are free to stay for as little or as long as they like.
“[They] shouldn’t feel discouraged to come,” says Wanninger, “because everyone can drop in, and we understand that people have to leave early or can’t be there.”
In the meetings, people can also talk about their problems and difficulties if they want to, although it’s not required. Counselling services to support and help students are also available at Camosun.
“Sometimes they need extra resources, or a fun activity to cheer them up during the day, and I think that things like sharing de-stressing activities with others or petting a therapy dog can be helpful for everyone,” says Wanninger. “Especially because some students work and study at the same time, and I think it’s important to take a break sometimes. We should focus on being present, being in the moment, and doing something fun.”
The Camosun Wellness Club has had two meetings and is looking for someone who could eventually take on the project, as Wanninger and Robertson are both leaving Camosun at the end of the winter 2019 term. Those wanting to learn more can visit the club’s Facebook page, where students can reach out and propose more events and activities.