Despite experiencing exacerbation of mental health issues, post-secondary students may not seek help due to perceived stigma, overreliance on the self, or preference for nonprofessional supports - including peer support. This study aimed to understand peer support workers' (PSWs) perspectives regarding providing support for mental health concerns in post-secondary institutions. 41 PSWs were recruited from two post-secondary institutions.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFAim: Demands for mental health services in post-secondary institutions are increasing. This paper describes key features of a response to these needs: ACCESS Open Minds University of Alberta (ACCESS OM UA) is focused on improving mental health services for first-year students, as youth transition to university and adulthood.
Methods: The core transformation activities at ACCESS OM UA are described, including early case identification, rapid access, appropriate and timely connections to follow-up care and engagement of students and families/carers.