Mental Health and Emotional Support
Mental health plays a vital role in students’ academic success and overall well-being. At Okanagan College, we recognize that students may face a range of personal, academic and emotional challenges during their time at school. Whether you’re experiencing stress, grief, anxiety or just need someone to talk to, there are multiple support options available.
This article outlines how to access mental health and emotional support — both on campus and in the community — including services through OC Counselling, Coordinated Support Services, 24/7 crisis lines and community resources. It also provides guidance if you’re not sure where to start.
Support Options
OC Counselling Services
- Free, confidential one-on-one counselling with clinically trained counsellors.
- Support is available for a wide range of personal, academic, social and mental health concerns.
- Email: counselling@okanagan.bc.ca
- Website: okanagan.bc.ca/counselling-services
Coordinated Support Services (CSS)
- If you’re navigating a challenge and aren’t sure what kind of help you need, CSS can guide you through your options and connect you with appropriate supports on or off campus.
- Email: occares@okanagan.bc.ca
- Website: okanagan.bc.ca/coordinated-support-services
Crisis support and 24/7 resources
If you're in crisis or need help outside of business hours, the following supports are available:
- In an emergency: Call 911 or visit the nearest hospital.
- Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call or text 988
- KUU-US Indigenous Crisis Line: 1-800-588-8717
- BC Mental Health Support Line: 310-6789 (no area code needed)
- Here2Talk: Free, 24/7 counselling by phone or online chat – 1-877-857-3397
- TalkCampus: Peer support via mobile app – talkcampus.com/sign-up
- Thrive Lifeline: LGBTQIA2S+ affirming crisis support – Text “Thrive” to 1-313-662-8209
Community and online resources
You can also explore a wide range of free or low-cost campus and community-based resources by visiting the Well-Being and Student Support webpage. Supports are available for students in all campus regions, as well as those studying online.
This page includes:
- Links to campus services like Counselling Services, Disability Access Services, Library Services, Indigenous Services and more.
- Community-based resources for physical health, mental well-being, food security, crisis support, legal questions and more.
- Support options for variety of experiences and identities, including navigating sexual violence, accessing 2SLGBTQIA+ supports, harm reduction services, Indigenous-focused resources and more.
Not sure what you need?
That’s okay. You don’t have to figure it out alone.
Contact Coordinated Support Services at occares@okanagan.bc.ca and we’ll help you explore your options and find what’s right for you.
Resources and links
Conclusion and next steps
Taking care of your mental health is an important part of your success and well-being at Okanagan College. Whether you need immediate support, ongoing counselling or aren’t sure where to turn, there are services and people ready to help.
If you’re unsure where to start or what would be most helpful, reach out to Coordinated Support Services at occares@okanagan.bc.ca. You don’t have to navigate it alone.