This release was issued under a previous government.
The province is providing the college with $290,000 in funding each year for the next three years. This funding is part of government’s $25.8-million investment to protect and improve the mental health of post-secondary students at publicly funded institutions across the province between 2017 and 2020.
“Our government’s increased investment in student mental health programs is an important commitment to help students succeed. Mental health challenges have a significant impact on far too many students, and we are making these public investments so all students across the province have access to these programs when they need them.”
“One thing I heard loud and clear when I co-chaired the review of our province’s mental health system was that we need to do more to support the health and well-being of students and young Albertans. This grant is an important step in ensuring that young people in northern Alberta have the tools and support they need to succeed as they pursue their dreams. I’m proud that our government is investing in the health of students at Northern Lakes College and across Alberta.”
“Northern Lakes College is very pleased to receive funding that will allow us to further enhance opportunities for our students, including access to mental health resources and engagement activities. The funding will allow Northern Lakes College to progress our goal of developing a comprehensive wellness program that is focused on mental health. We want our students to have every opportunity for success.”
In June 2017, the province announced new funding that significantly increases and improves mental health supports for post-secondary students across Alberta. Over the past two years, Northern Lakes College has received $77,500 from the Alberta Students’ Executive Council government grant to support mental health initiatives.
“Student mental health and well-being have a tremendous impact on a student’s educational success. I am happy to see that mental health is a priority and that more programs and services will be available for NLC students.”
The 2016 National College Health Assessment survey, conducted at 10 post-secondary institutions across the province, showed a high incidence of anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts. With good mental health supports in place, mental well-being is linked to academic achievement, learning, retention and future achievement.
To find out more about this new funding and how the provincial government is improving post-secondary mental health and addictions supports for students, please visit Next Steps to Improve Post-Secondary Student Mental Health.