How counselling can promote students’ wellbeing

Credit to Author: Geneviève Beaupré and Susan Qadeer| Date: Tue, 20 Jun 2023 01:59:55 +0000

Counsellors at universities and colleges are well-versed in the range of issues that face young adults and post-secondary students of different ages and from varied backgrounds and countries. Below is detailed information about some specific issues that post-secondary counsellors at your educational institution can help with.

Promoting mental health and self awareness

It is hard to imagine a semester without issues or worries, since students need to balance many demands on their time, energy and maintain focus. Post-secondary students, especially international students, face mental health issues, such as managing low moods and anxiety, homesickness, addictions, conflicts with family or roommates, and handling stress. Counsellors listen and support students by discussing problems and solutions. This could help with reducing unhelpful behaviours, promoting healthier habits and even offering support during a crisis situation that may impede academic work.

Counselling can help with accepting and managing negative emotions so students can get back on track with their academic work and life. School counsellors can also help students with  issues ranging from accessing academic accommodations to requesting the support and flexibility they need from their professors.

Helping students connect with appropriate services

Post-secondary counsellors are very knowledgeable about services the educational institution offers and those available in the wider community. Counsellors can help students identify the supports that they need and connect them with appropriate services, whether they are within the school or in the community. These include food banks, health services, emergency housing, and legal counsel, among others.

Many counsellors can help students explore their options in terms of career direction, or they may make referrals to other staff who can help, such as career advisors. This is also true for financial support options such as loans, scholarships and grants.

 Improving study skills and habits

With pressures on students’ time due to commuting, part-time work and assignments, prioritizing and planning become essential skills. A post-secondary education usually involves a high degree of motivation and discipline. Knowing how to budget time, tackling long-term projects and assignments and studying for exams in an efficient and effective way are critical skills. Counsellors are equipped to guide students who have not yet mastered these skills or refer them to services at school where they can learn them, such as writing centres and tutoring services.

Providing a safe space for an honest and confidential exchange   

During busy periods, students may need to wait to see a counsellor, but they often feel it is worth it. Your first appointment may be offered relatively quickly, especially if it is an urgent need. In some cases, additional appointments may be recommended, depending on your situation.

Counselling is meant to be a confidential, open and honest exchange with a professional who is aware of the difficulties facing students, including newly arrived adult immigrants who enroll in post-secondary programs. The information you share with your school counsellor will not be disclosed to your academic department, professors, employer, friends or family.

Problem solving, self-exploration and being open to other ways of looking at personal, school and other issues can all help promote your personal growth and achieve your academic and wellness goals.

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