RDC launches week of activities focusing on student mental health

Red Deer College is encouraging students to start an online conversation about mental health.

Next week, students will have the opportunity to discuss positive methods of coping with stress using the hashtag #MakeSomeTimeRDC on social media.

They will be in the running to win a self-care basket.

There will also be a number of mental-health focused events and activities at RDC. Participants can enter a draw at each event for an opportunity to win the grand prize — a tuition credit equivalent to $380.25.

The campaign will lead into the Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference's Make Some Noise for Mental Health, which starts Jan. 25.

Red Deer College offers a range of resources to support student mental health, which is a priority, said Steve Lane, associate vice-president of academic, research and student affairs.

The counselling and career centre, for example, "provides free resources to those who want help in creating a balanced schedule and finding healthy ways to manage the challenges."