Health News For South West


Friday, January 16, 2015

Improving Mental Health for Postsecondary Students

Ontario is supporting 14 projects that will help more postsecondary students get access to mental health services faster.

Premier Kathleen Wynne announced these investments today at Sault College in Sault Ste. Marie. Sault College's Mental Health Hub and EGALE Canada Human Rights Trust are receiving funding to support existing projects. The province will support 12 new projects at colleges and universities across Ontario through the Mental Health Innovation Fund.

Fully 70 per cent of mental health and addiction issues start when people are young, so identifying and treating them early helps young people get back on track to achieving their full potential. The funding announced today focuses on helping students who are Aboriginal, have addiction issues, or face mental health or addiction issues while transitioning from high school to college or university.

Investing to improve postsecondary students' mental health is part of the government's plan to invest in people's talent and skills. The plan is also building Ontario up by building new public infrastructure like roads and transit, creating a dynamic, supportive environment where business thrives, and building a secure savings plan so everyone can afford to retire.
 
Quick Facts:

  • The Mental Health Innovation Fund is part of Open Minds, Healthy Minds – Ontario’s multi-year, $257-million Comprehensive Mental Health and Addictions Strategy.
  • Ontario invests $9 million annually to support improved mental health services for postsecondary students, including up to $6 million for the Mental Health Innovation Fund.
  • This is the third funding round since the Mental Health Innovation Fund launched in 2012. The fund has now supported 32 projects at colleges and universities across the province.
 
Learn More:

 
Quotes:

"To build a brighter future for our province, we need to build a brighter future for every one of our students. The investments we are making today in mental health services for postsecondary students will go a long way toward making sure young people in Ontario can truly realize their full potential."
 — Kathleen Wynne, Premier of Ontario

"Every college and university student in Ontario should have access to the support they need to enjoy good mental and physical health throughout their learning journey. Through the Mental Health Innovation Fund and other important initiatives, Ontario is working to ensure that every single student who needs help can turn to co-ordinated, high-quality mental health care."
 — Reza Moridi, Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities

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