It’s time to “talk” about mental health

Thursday, January 28, 2021

St. Paul's staff and faculty wearing hats for Bell Let's Talk Day

St. Paul's staff and students supporting Bell Let's Talk Day in 2019

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, we have become more socially isolated than ever before and it is having a strong impact on student mental health across the UWaterloo community.

This Bell Let's Talk Day at St. Paul's, we want students to know they’re not alone during this time and there are plenty of resources to get you through. On-campus, we’re excited to share we have brought on two staff members to support students, Faith Friesen, a counsellor in-residence and Aaron Rousseau, a student support coordinator.

Faith Friesen
Faith Friesen (Counsellor-in-Residence)
Faith has a Bachelor of Arts in psychology, ten years of experience supporting young adults and the transitions that come with college life. She is also a master’s student at Wilfrid Laurier University training to be a counsellor. You can schedule conversations with her to deal with various issues, including anxiety, grief, coping skills, relationships, school and pandemic related stress.

To schedule a 50-minute session please reach out via email: faithfriesen21@gmail.com

Aaron Rousseau
Aaron Rousseau (Student Support Coordinator)
Aaron has a Bachelor of Social Work degree from Renison University College and has been active in student leadership on campus for his entire university career. Aaron can provide an ear to listen, advice and guidance, and connect you with resources to help with any issue or concern you might have.

You can book a call or meeting with Aaron via email: acprousseau@uwaterloo.ca

24/7 assistance and support are available right now to those struggling or in crisis.

Good2Talk - 1-866-925-5454

  • Confidential and anonymous
  • Available to all Ontario post-secondary students

Here 24/7 - 1-844-437-3247

  • Supports addictions, mental health and crisis services
  • Available to all Ontario post-secondary students

Crisis Services Canada - 1-833-456-4566 or by text 45645  

Kitchener-Waterloo Sexual Assault Support Centre - 519-741-8633

Bell has also created an online toolkit to help open the lines of communication around mental health. 

Today and every day, let’s talk to each other to build a more supportive community around mental health and well-being.

For more mental health resources visit the campus wellness resources page