Session

In an era of accelerating change and global interconnectedness, the mental well-being of post-secondary students is a critical foundation for a resilient future. Fostering mental health awareness, literacy, and competency building are essential skills for promoting empathy, reducing stigma, and providing effective tools for students to care for their mental health and well-being.The first of its kind in the world, The National Standard of Canada for Mental Health and Well-Being for Post-Secondary Students (the Standard) is an evidence-informed set of flexible, voluntary guidelines to help institutions support the mental health and well-being of their students. Released in 2020, the Standard is now used by many institutions across Canada to evaluate and implement policies, programs, and services; support new partnerships; and inspire collective action. This session, led by the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC), will delve into the significance of mental health literacy within the context of higher education, addressing its multifaceted impact on student success, academic performance, and overall well-being, and emphasizing the pivotal role of fostering mental health literacy as an essential skill in navigating the complexities of a rapidly evolving world.By leveraging the framework of the Standard, a panel of two CICan member institutions, facilitated by MHCC, will provide practical insights and actionable strategies for implementing effective mental health literacy initiatives across campuses. This presentation ultimately aims to inspire educators, administrators, and stakeholders to champion a holistic approach to student success by prioritizing mental health literacy as a cornerstone of resilient and thriving post-secondary communities.