The NYAC is proud to release the results of their survey, which data collection was active through the spring of 2023 to the fall of 2024. A total of 80 students from coast to coast participated. Here are a few key takeaways:

1. Post-secondary schools tend to offer a variety of mental health and wellbeing resources, but students still perceive barriers to their use.

    • Students reported feeling uncertainty about how to access resources, the appropriateness of services for their needs, long wait-times, and imperfect timing.

2. Students feel they could benefit from more mental health and wellbeing resources and more diversity in their delivery and topics.

    • Online resource formats may be an accessible option (e.g., social media, websites, podcasts), but students similarly desire in-person options (e.g., counselling, workshops, print information).

    • Information about community resources (outside the school) was also desired, including increased insurance coverage for these services.

3. Respondents noted that post-secondary can be a demanding experience, with many stressors inherent to student life. However, many students suggested an accommodating, compassionate culture with sufficient support resources could reduce barriers to wellbeing.

Results of this survey will help the NYAC better target their council initiatives to respond to these issues and assist students in need.