By Veronica Pereira and Emma Bodrero
Balancing academic pressures, part-time jobs and social commitments can lead to overwhelming stress among students, impacting both mental and physical health.
According to a 2023 study published in BMC Public Health by researchers from Queen’s University and other Ontario institutions, 38.6 per cent of post-secondary students in Ontario reported a formal mental health diagnosis, with depression (19.3 per cent) and generalized anxiety disorder (18.2 per cent) being the most prevalent. Furthermore, 66.5 per cent of students experienced a decline in their mental health since starting their post-secondary education, and 58 per cent reported daily general anxiety.
At Durham College (DC), various resources are available to help students manage stress and maintain well-being. This is especially important during exam season.
“We take a proactive approach to supporting students’ health and wellness through different activities, workshops and getting outside in nature,” said Jessica-Lee Bender, health promotion coordinator at the DC Wellness Den.
Additionally, more research indicates that 45.1 per cent of post-secondary students experience higher-than-average stress levels, with up to 35 per cent meeting diagnostic criteria for at least one mental health disorder. Recognizing the importance of mental health, Durham College developed several initiatives to support students during these challenging times.
One key resource is the Wellness Den, a hub dedicated to promoting mental health and wellness across campus. The Wellness Den offers workshops, counselling services and stress-relief activities designed to help students cope with academic pressures. Whether it’s a mindfulness session, a stress-relieving yoga class or one-on-one counselling, the Wellness Den provides a safe space for students to seek help and find balance.
Bender emphasized the wide range of stressors students face, from academic pressure to transitioning into independent living.
“Academics and just the pressure of wanting to be successful in their schooling, that transition from high school to living independently – it’s a whole other kind of world of stressors,” Bender said. “Trying to manage and balance self-care, wellness, friends and all the household things you need to do plus work, it’s a lot for students to juggle.”
In addition to the Wellness Den, Durham College offers engaging activities like the Just Dance 2025 event, hosted by the Esports Lounge on March 20, 2025. This high-energy dance competition provided students with an opportunity to unwind, have fun and connect with others. Events like this are essential in offering students moments of stress relief through physical activity and community engagement.
One of the event’s organizers, Kate Howell, highlighted how Just Dance is a game that prioritizes accessibility, making it an inclusive activity for students of all abilities. “Compared to other games, Just Dance has a lot of accessibility features as well,” said Howell, emphasizing the importance of providing stress-relief activities that accommodate a diverse student body.
Many students find relief in movement.
“I probably try and find time like for myself whether that’s like chilling and watching a show that’s comforting or working out. I love to work out so probably that,” said Allison Arnburg, a member of the Durham College Ontario Tech (DCOT) Dance Pak.
Danica Kendic, another member of the DCOT Dance Pak, emphasized the importance of rest, saying, “Making sure you take time to like take a break and prioritize your mental health and like resting in between studying.”
The Durham College Student Association (DCSA) also plays a role in organizing events that promote relaxation, such as campus yoga and pet therapy sessions, providing students with moments of reprieve amidst their busy schedules.
“So we have an escape room planned, we’re bringing over some pocket pets like bunnies, hamsters, guinea pigs. We have crafternoon, a pizza pop-up as well. Just a bunch of really easy events for students to just pop in and leave or hang out for a long time depending on how they’re feeling,” said Stevie Love, marketing coordinator at DCSA.
Beyond these organized events, the campus environment itself promotes a healthy balance. Quiet spaces like the library, outdoor areas, and meditation rooms offer students places to relax and gather their thoughts.
Bender stressed the importance of finding personal strategies to manage stress. “We can be so hard on ourselves, feeling like we need to fit it all in and do it all,” she said. “Nobody really has a perfect formula for what stress management looks like – it’s about exploring what works best for you.” She encouraged students to try different approaches, from spending time in nature to journaling, to see what helps them most.
Durham College’s efforts demonstrate a commitment to supporting students’ mental health, ensuring they have the resources and tools needed to navigate academic challenges. As the demands of college life continue to rise, having a solid support system can make all the difference in a student’s ability to succeed – both academically and personally.