Student Mental Health: Designing a Culture of Care at the University of Toronto
"Designing a Culture of Care" showcases the design principles developed by the Innovation Hub at the University of Toronto. These principles were derived from comprehensive research and various projects focused on student experiences, mental health, and wellbeing. They aim to guide and inspire staff, students, and leaders in building a supportive and inclusive community at UofT.
Fall/Winter 2020-2021
How can UofT foster a supportive environment that promotes student wellbeing?
Our research outlines key design principles aimed at fostering a supportive and healthy campus environment at the University of Toronto. By emphasizing resilience, inclusivity, and holistic development, we aim to foster a culture of care that supports students’ diverse needs and promotes their overall well-being. These principles not only address immediate student needs but also equip them with lifelong skills to manage future challenges, thus enriching their university experience and preparing them for life beyond academia.
KEY FINDINGS
This project identified the following key design principles for fostering a culture of care at the University of Toronto:
- Redefining Excellence: UofT emphasizes holistic student development by integrating transferrable life skills and experiential learning opportunities into academic and co-curricular activities.
- Breathe, Relax, Connect: Providing spaces and opportunities for relaxation and social connection helps students recharge and engage deeply with their work and life.
- Equity is Foundational: UofT is committed to equitable care, accommodating diverse student needs and ensuring that all students, especially those from marginalized communities, receive appropriate support.
- Diversity at all Levels: Inclusivity is promoted through diverse mental health support options, training for staff and student leaders on diversity-based needs, and cultural competence in care provision.
- Clarity is Caring: Clear, accessible pathways to support empower students to seek help confidently, with well-communicated procedures and knowledgeable frontline staff guiding them.
- Embedding Care into Every Day: Preventative mental health skills and support are integrated into daily student experiences, promoting visible caregiving and help-seeking behaviors.
- Students are Experts: Recognizing students as experts in their own experiences fosters mutual trust and engagement, with students actively participating in shaping their university experience through feedback and consultation.
