Posted on September 9, 2020

How to access free counselling and mental health services for students

‌A woman holding an iPhone outdoors

 

As post-secondary students hit the books this fall, Vancouver Community College (VCC) and the Government of B.C. want to ensure that students who need mental health support know how and where to get it. 

Launched in April 2020, Here2Talk is a mental health counselling and referral service available to all B.C. post-secondary students. The service offers confidential, free, single-session services by app, phone, or online chat, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

“I want anyone who feels alone or isolated or overwhelmed to know that it is ok to not be ok and that there is help for you when you need it,” says Melanie Mark, B.C. Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Training.

“Students experience high levels of stress and anxiety compounded by the pandemic,” says Judy Darcy, B.C. Minister of Mental Health and Addictions. “No matter where they are, access to mental health services shouldn’t depend on where you live or the size of your bank account.”

How to access Here2Talk

B.C. post-secondary students can access professional counselling services by:

Students calling from outside Canada can also dial 604.642.5212 (international calling charges may apply). Phone services are available in additional languages upon request.

The Here2Talk service is operated by Morneau Shepell, and can support students dealing with challenges such as depression, anxiety, loneliness, pressure to perform, crises, racism, and relationships. Counsellors will also be equipped to refer students to local resources in their communities.

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