This Sunday, October 10, marks World Mental Health Day. First observed in 1992 by the World Federation for Mental Health, this annual day of commemoration continues to serve as a call to everyone to raise awareness of mental health issues and to work together to support mental wellness.

This year, as was the case in 2020, World Mental Health Day looks and feels a little different. The COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on people’s mental health. Frontline workers, students, people living alone and those with pre-existing mental health conditions have been particularly affected. To complicate matters further, many quality mental health services have been significantly disrupted, or discontinued, as a direct result of the pandemic.

However, here at McMaster, there are number of reliable mental health services available to all faculty, staff and students.

Resources for faculty and staff

Homewood Health is McMaster’s provider of the Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP). Homewood Health offers a supportive, confidential and caring environment, and provides a full range of mental health support services to faculty and staff.

Resources for leaders and managers

If you are looking for additional advice and resources on how to support positive mental health among your team.

Resources for students

McMaster’s Student Wellness Centre (SWC) provides health care and support to enhance the emotional, physical and personal wellbeing of all students. Resources include counselling, medical services and wellness programs, all of which are aimed at ensuring students get the most out of their McMaster experience, both academically and personally.