Durham College fitness coordinator Brianna Christopher recently received an overwhelming response from students interested in signing up for puppy yoga events, which were hosted on March 13 and 14. Nearly 800 students expressed interest, and each session reached its maximum capacity of 75 students.
The high demand reflects a growing need for mental health support on campus, and access to therapy animals, fitness events and social groups can make a real difference.
In 2024, a survey conducted by the Canadian Institute for Health Information found that 15 per cent of Canadians did not receive mental health support due to cost. A lack of affordability and accessibility continues to prevent many from getting the help they need.
“Governments across Canada are working to improve equitable access to mental health services to address the growing need for care,” the report stated.
Durham College offers a variety of free events and wellness programming to support students, from fitness classes to wellness checkups and art workshops.
The puppy yoga event was a “huge success,” Christopher said, thanking the Durham College Student Association and Ontario Tech Student Union for supporting it.
Christopher shared that when the students approached registration, many expressed how much they need the break, how stressful school had been and how much they missed their dogs back home.
“The combination of 45 minutes of yoga and 15 minutes for puppy socials allowed students to relax their minds and move their bodies,” Christopher said, adding there were a lot of happy faces at the end.
The college also offers other resources to help students manage stress. The Flex Fitness Centre is a popular place to unwind between classes. Working out not only helps relieve stress, but it also encourages connection and routine.
Some students in the FLEX said that their time spent there is one of the best parts of their day, it makes them feel better and it is also something to look forward too.
A 2023 survey by the Canadian Association of College and University Student Services found that 89 per cent of students reported feeling overwhelmed by their responsibilities. With exercise and socialization, some of that weight can feel a bit lighter.
In March, Durham College hosted “Creative Calm: Stress-Relief Workshops” every Wednesday, featuring hands-on activities designed to promote mindfulness.
Grace Cassidy, one of the founding members of the DC Craft Club, shared how creative outlets like crafting are an important mental health resource.
“Crafting has proven to be a great outlet for stress relief, working on confidence and building self-esteem, as well as creating a community around us,” Cassidy said.
“Crafting is a hands-on activity that physically and mentally allows our minds to go to a calming, positive place. This deep focus enables the ability to let go of those mentally harming thoughts for a period of time,” she added.
On March 27, a nutrition seminar was held on the Durham College campus, with a campus nutritionist sharing tips and tricks on building a healthy meal. Students learned about nutrition while also having the hands-on experience of plating their own nutritious meal.
The college also recognizes the importance of Indigenous health and wellness. The First Peoples Indigenous Centre hosts events throughout the year that honour tradition and promote cultural well-being.
As for advice to students struggling to start their fitness journey, Christopher said: “It sounds so simple, but just start.”