SA Mental Health Initiative

Student life can be both exciting and challenging. Many students juggle tight budgets, work, studies, and personal responsibilities while managing deadlines, exams, and the demands of everyday life. These pressures, combined with challenges such as anxiety, loneliness, and other mental health concerns, can make the student experience overwhelming.

To help support student well-being, the Students’ Association of Red Deer Polytechnic launched its Mental Health Initiative and Peer Support program. These initiatives are dedicated to fostering a supportive campus culture where mental health is openly discussed, resources are accessible, and students feel empowered to seek support.

As part of the Mental Health Initiative, the Students’ Association hosts a variety of mental health awareness events each term. These events provide students with opportunities to take a break from their daily responsibilities, connect with others, learn about available resources, and help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health through open conversation and community engagement.

Activities have included:

  • Peer Support
  • Puppy Room
  • Car Smash
  • Friend Matching
  • Self-Care Kits
  • Gratitude Letters
  • Happiness Boost
  • Vision Boards

If you need help:

Distress Line Central Alberta

1-800-784-2433

Red Deer 49th Street Community Health Centre

403-340-5466

Student Assistance Program

alumo.ca

Alberta Mental Health Helpline

1-877-303-2642

RDP Counselling Services

403-343-4064

Room 1402

RDP Security Emergency Line

403-343-4000

mental health resources and supports

Peer Support is designed to foster community, connection, and belonging among students on campus. By providing a safe, welcoming, and confidential environment, this program provides additional support to students who may be navigating difficult circumstances or simply seeking connection and understanding.

Rooted in the principles of peer support, the program connects individuals with shared lived experiences to promote empathy, encouragement, and mutual understanding.

Peer Support is available on a walk-in basis on Monday & Wednesday from 12:00pm to 3:00pm, and Tuesday & Thursday from 10:00am to 1:00pm

Become a Peer Supporter

Peer Support is a student-led program. All the services offered are delivered by trained supporters and are designed to create accessible opportunities for students to engage with their peers in meaningful ways.

As a volunteer Peer Supporter, the training that you receive is highly applicable to future careers, education, and volunteer opportunities. You gain hands-on experience supporting your peers through challenging situations, enhancing their abilities in communication, problem-solving, and active listening.

What is the time commitment?        

As much as you want! Minimum of 18 hours per term to meet the requirements for Co-Curricular Recognition.                          

Peer Support Volunteer Sign-up

What to Expect During a Peer Support Session

The session topics can range from very casual conversation, academic-related issues, friendship troubles, to very heavy, traumatic situations. Supporters will use active listening, empathy, lived experience, and genuine connection to support their peers and create a safe environment. Supporters will suggest various resources on campus and within the community that the peers can access depending on what they need.

Sessions are a maximum of 45-minutes per session and with only one topic discussed per session. Peers who feel they need longer or have multiple topics to discuss are encouraged to access additional services and resources on campus and/or within the community.