Starting August 1st, SFU students will have free access to a 24/7 multi-platform mental health and support service thanks to a two-year pilot launched by Simon Fraser Student Society (SFSS) and Simon Fraser University (SFU).

This new initiative, called the keep.meSAFE Student Support Program (SSP), is a service provided by guard.me International Insurance and Morneau Shepell. It will complement existing mental health services, supports and initiatives at SFU.

Over the past year, representatives from SFU and the SFSS have collaborated to find new ways to help meet the mental health needs of SFU students. The SSP, along with more details and information, will be available for all SFU students on Aug 1st, 2018.

Some of the benefits SFU students will have access to include:

Support available 24/ 7 via multiple platforms including – phone, chat, app, web access

Ongoing short-term counselling support offered over the phone, video or in-person

Access for students living or studying abroad

Specialized support for underserved or vulnerable populations

Ability to integrate with SFU’s Health and Counselling Services

“We are pleased to come together for this unique partnership [with SFU],” said Juvina Silvestre, SFSS FCAT representative. “We have been seeing significant increases in our students’ needs for mental health support and this new service will significantly improve the amount and options of service available for our students.”

The SFSS board has approved a collaboration agreement with SFU that includes a one-time financial contribution of $75,000 to support the pilot program.

“Having [access to] a larger, more diverse network of professional counsellors means that students’ unique circumstances can be more easily matched with someone who understands their circumstances,” said SFSS President Hangue Kim. “We are excited to be working together with SFU to offer this important new service.”

Students will not see a fee increase associated with the pilot program. Martin Mroz, Director, Health and Counselling Services added, “As part of a broader mental health framework and education strategy the SSP can fundamentally improve access and connection with mental health support at SFU, enhancing student safety and fostering a more caring, supportive community.”

To access counselling and other support currently available through SFU Health & Counselling Services visit: www.sfu.ca/students/health.

Contact:

Martin Mroz,

Director, Health & Counselling Services

778-782-3692

Hangue Kim,

SFSS President

president@sfss.ca

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