This release was issued under a previous government.

The Government of Alberta is providing $205,000 to the college for the next three years. This new equitable funding is part of a $25.8-million investment to protect and improve mental health resources for post-secondary students at all publicly funded institutions across Alberta between 2017 and 2020.

“The sometimes overwhelming pressure that comes with post-secondary education can have a significant impact on a student’s mental health. Providing equitable funding to all our public post-secondary institutions will ensure our next generations of leaders and visionaries have the supports and resources they need to succeed.”

Marlin Schmidt, Minister of Advanced Education

“On behalf of Red Deer College, I would like to thank the Government of Alberta for supporting student mental health initiatives. This funding will help to support student health and well-being, enhancing the opportunities for our students’ success, now and in the future.”

Joel Ward, president and CEO of Red Deer College

In June 2017, the province announced new funding that significantly increases and improves mental health supports for post-secondary students across Alberta. As well, over the past four years, Red Deer College has received $134,000 from the Alberta Students’ Executive Council to support mental health initiatives.

“Student life is often stressful and at times can feel overwhelming. Easy access to mental health information, supports and training programs promotes a positive college community and is the key to reducing stigma, encouraging a healthy lifestyle and getting a quality education. This funding will create new opportunities to provide our students at Red Deer College with a healthy and successful post-secondary experience.”

William Baliko, president, Students’ Association of Red Deer College

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 the new funding provided to all public post-secondary institutions across Alberta 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.