University brings students together to reduce stress

Madison Walsh is UPEI’s student wellness coordinator, she supports students and hosting programs to makes them feel included and part of a community. (EllaSarpong Photo)

College students can face mental health issues like stress, depression and anxiety. This doesn’t just come from school, but living alone for the first time. “Colleges ignore a lot, especially when it comes to stress. It is just seen as the everyday struggles of school,” says Madison Walsh, UPEI student wellness coordinator. She hosts programs to bring people together and giving them the opportunity to talk about mental health issues. When it comes to mental health everyone is different, so there is no textbook method on how to cope with it she said. “There’s not one thing that would work for everyone. But knowing the services your school gives and also having a community is very important. You also have to make yourself a priority and look after yourself,” she said. Currently, mental health is being treated more serious, compared to previous years. According to Walsh, the pandemic lockdown made a lot of people realise the importance of mental health since many students were alone at home. Although people may leave their countries for a better education, they fail to factor the mental aspect of it. According to Walsh, international students don’t only have to face the difficulties of living way from their families, they also have to face the stress of paying high school fees. The student union hosts events to make people feel included and part of a community. “Recently we had a paint night. Some people were in groups, other people were just with themselves painting to get away from stress. I think it’s important to have those moments,” she said. Walsh’s position gives her the opportunity to extend help to students who need it. “I want to be able to help support people as much as I can in the ways that I can,” she said.