The U of A Library is proud to partner with the U of A’s Wellness Supports Team for the Days of Action. This collaboration is dedicated to fostering a supportive community by providing information and resources, encouraging open discussion, and actively working to challenge the stigma surrounding mental health at the University of Alberta. The following article is co-authored by Lucinda Johnston, Faculty Engagement Librarian and Heather Ritz, Community Social Worker.
Mental health is whole health. At the University of Alberta Library, we believe that academic success is built on a foundation of well-being. Focus, motivation, and creativity all depend on how well we care for ourselves. With October 10 being World Mental Health Day, we want to remind you that the library is here for more than just studying—it’s a space for you to de-stress, recharge, and find support.
A Well-Being Reading List
One of the most empowering things we can do is to learn what resources are available to us and share that knowledge with others. Whether you’re looking for strategies to manage stress or simply want to learn more about the science of well-being, our collection has you covered.
- Stay balanced while you study : make the most of your student experience
- It’s all good (unless it’s not) : mental health tips and self-care strategies for your undergrad years
- 18 wellbeing hacks for students : using psychology’s secrets to survive and thrive
- Mind-Body wellness : a science-based approach
- Nurturing wellbeing in academia : how to prioritise your mental health
- Being well in academia : ways to feel stronger, safer and more connected
- Self-care all-in-one
- Psychology of well-being : theory, perspectives and practice
Spaces to Unwind and Recharge
Sometimes, the best thing you can do for your mental health is find the right space. Your library offers a variety of environments and services designed to help you relax, focus, and connect.
- Quiet Study: Need to avoid distractions and focus? Check out our quiet and silent study areas. Also, many of our library locations offer puzzles, Lego, colouring and other relaxing activities to engage in during your Pomodoro breaks.
- The Cameron Library Listening Space: A unique, therapeutic space that uses natural and AI-driven soundscapes to promote mindful calm and well-being.
- Rutherford Library Family Corner: A family-friendly area for students with children.
- Digital Scholarship Centre: A space for learning, experiencing gaming and VR as well as creating in the Makerspace.
- Sperber Library – Indigenous Learning Space: A welcoming meeting place for all to learn through Indigenous ways of knowing
- Bruce Peel Special Collections Library Workshops: Take time to explore centuries of human thought and creativity – giving your mind (and screens) a break.
- Augustana Nordic Sports Library: For a wintertime movement break, borrow snowshoes or cross-country skis at Augustana Library.
Tangible Ways to Care for Yourself
Self-care is not one-size-fits-all. What matters is finding practices that work for you. Here are some simple, tangible strategies you can try:
- Routine: Create a consistent schedule for sleep, study, and breaks.
- Movement & Rest: Incorporate both activity and recovery into your week.
- Connection: Reach out to friends, family, or mentors when you need to talk.
- Mindfulness: Take a moment to breathe, reflect, or meditate.
- Boundaries: It’s okay to say no. Prioritize what’s important for you.
- Creativity: Do something that makes your heart sing, whether it’s knitting, baking, journaling or even singing in the shower!
A Spectrum of Support
You are not alone in this journey. Our campus has a wide range of supports available, from peer-to-peer programs to professional care. Knowing about them is the first step, and reaching out is a sign of strength.
- Peer support programs that provide spaces to talk and connect:
- Free workshops and events focused on mental health skills and education
- Community Wellness (students, faculty and staff)
- Counselling and Clinical Services (students, faculty and staff)
- Human Resource, Health, Safety and Environment (faculty and staff)
- Academic resources that reduce stress related to studies
- Counselling and clinical services for individualized professional care
Flourishing mental health looks different for everyone. But what remains constant is that we all thrive in environments that value care, connection, and inclusivity. We believe our collective actions—whether small or large—contribute to a community where well-being is supported in all its forms.
This World Mental Health Day, and every day, let’s continue to learn, listen, and lift one another up. Together, we can build a campus culture where caring for our mental health is a normal part of everyday life.
This content is licensed under a CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 Creative Commons licence.