The following message was written by Melinda Yanick, Business Administration student and Vice President, Internal, of the RRC Polytech Students’ Association.

Today is Bell Let’s Talk Day, a time that reminds us to stop, think, and talk about the importance of mental health. While it’s a time to have conversations, it’s also about taking action to create positive change.

Leading up to Bell Let’s Talk Day, eight organizations, including RRC Polytech, were recipients of critical funding for mental health initiatives from Bell. Through the investment from the Bell Let’s Talk Post-Secondary Fund, we will soon be able to expand our student well-being and mental health services with a Peer Support program.

Because, in dealing with and working through any mental health challenges, it’s important to have the right support. Knowing that you have someone – a peer – to confide in, to talk with, is so important for your mental health. It’s critical for students – and for everyone – to know that they are not alone and there are people who can provide the support needed.

The Peer Support Program became part of my portfolio when I started my position with the Students’ Association last spring. And even though my position is only a year-long, I told myself that I wouldn’t budge until we made progress on the program’s launch.

I didn’t budge because myself and a vast majority of students deal with mental health. In experiencing mental health challenges and knowing friends and family also in the same place, I understand how much of a positive impact the Peer Support program will have. 

With a student-helping-student program, you are gaining a friend, someone to confide in, an ear to listen, and a smile. I know that this program will be the support many people need. I look forward to seeing the program flourish, and in turn, watch students thrive in their studies and future careers.

We anticipate the Peer Support program will launch in early 2025. Until the program’s launch, there are many resources and supports available to students and employees at the College through Campus Well-Being, including sport and fitness, mental wellness, counselling services and recreation activities.

Especially right now, with these short winter days we are experiencing, there can often be a lot of darkness – both in relation to daylight, and the way many may be feeling. But like the changing of seasons, there will be a time with more light.

Students, staff and faculty can find more information about the supports and resources available, here. If at any time you are experiencing a mental health crisis, dial 9-8-8 for the Suicide Crisis Helpline, where support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Further external resources available to all, include:
Manitoba Suicide Prevention and Support Line

• Phone: 1-877-435-7170
• Text: 45645

Klinic Crisis Line

• Phone: 204-786-8686
• Toll-free: 1-888-322-3019
• TTY: 204-784-4097