Post-secondary studies can be a challenging time for students. The pressures of post-secondary studies, along with various environmental, systemic, and structural factors, can have adverse effects on learners' mental health and well-being. Generally there are signs that a student is struggling long before a situation escalates to a crisis.
Faculty and staff are well-positioned to recognize behaviour that may indicate that a learner is in distress and may require support. Being able to recognize the signs of distress and make appropriate referrals are critical first steps in helping a learner find support.
Resources for Responding to Students in Distress
Learn more about the steps to support learners in distress, referrals to resources, and tips for taking care of yourself.
Learn how to Recognize, Respond and Support Learners in Distress by reviewing the resource below or download the PDF.
Training for Faculty and Staff
SWEL Wellness Education and Programs provides Recognize, Respond, & Support Learners in Distress workshops for small and large groups in-person and online. This interactive session aims to equip Humber faculty and staff with the necessary skills to support learners in distress. Participants will learn to recognize concerning behaviours and identify signs that a learner may need support, respond with empathy and effective communication, and connect students with on- and off- campus resources.
Workshops are available in two formats:
1. Synchronous Workshop (online or in-person for 2-2.5 hours)
2. Hybrid Format with an Asynchronous Online Module and Synchronous Workshop (online or in-person for 1 hour).
To access the online module you must go to the HRMS LEARN platform. Using the search bar at the bottom of the screen, type in Learners in Distress to find the module. Once found, please enroll in the module and complete before the live workshop.
Request Training for your Group
Are you interested in scheduling a training session for your department or Faculty? Submit a training request.
Attend a Workshop
Attend one of our Recognize, Respond, & Support Learners in Distress scheduled workshops. Register for a session.
Taking care of yourself
Supporting learners who are experiencing personal challenges or difficulty can bear a lot of weight on the person offering support. It is important to maintain boundaries and observe your personal limits. Your main role is to provide a referral to trained professionals.
Self-care Resources:
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Well-being resources online, through the LifeWorks website (available to all employees)
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Humber College Employee Assistance Program (EAP) (available to full-time employees)
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Part-time/contract employees may contact their manager or HR Business Partner to find out how to access to Humber's EAP
Share your Story!
How do you support student well-being in your classroom or learning environment? If you have used any of the resources on this site, or have your own unique tips and tricks, we would love to add your story to our faculty stories page.