New funding being provided for post-secondary institutions to support mental health initiatives may help many current and future students, says Minister of Advanced Education Marlin Schmidt.
Olds College will receive $135,000 over each of the next three years to improve mental health supports on campus, Schmidt said during a stopover at the institution on Sept. 5.
"We want to make sure you can reach your full potential," Schmidt told students and staff. "I want every student here at Olds College to have access to the mental health supports that you need if and when you need them.
"It means more access to supports if you are experiencing test anxiety, someone to talk to if you've experienced sexual harassment or assault, or accessing resources for an addiction.
"We know these supports make a difference in the lives of post- secondary students and we are committed to ensuring we do everything to make life better."
In June the government announced $25.8 million in funding over three years for Alberta post-secondary schools to improve mental health resources.
Schmidt called on Olds College students who need mental health support to seek it out.
"There is no weakness or shame in getting the help you need to live a healthy life and make the most of your academic opportunities," he said.
The college will be working with Advanced Education to determine exactly how the funding will be used, he later told reporters.
- with files from Doug Collie
