It’s important to realize that needing mental health care is common – 1 in 2 Canadians have—or have had—a mental illness by the time they are 40 years old. Mental health impacts all aspects of your life, so take advantage of the benefits and coverage offered by your student insurance. You can also use free resources offered by McGill. This blog will offer an overview of everything you need to know!
Listening Services
If you’re not sure where to start and feel overwhelmed, perhaps even just talking with someone is a great way to start. Vent over Tea is a free service started by McGill psychology graduates – confidentially chat with an empathetic listener in a cafe. The space to vent can lead you to feel more comfortable accessing professional mental health care. This service does not offer professional counselling or psychotherapy, but it does offer a space to talk things out. In a similar vein, there is also the Peer Support Center at McGill, which offers a similar service. It all depends on what environment you prefer to talk in.
Student Insurance and McGill Services
Accessing professional services can depend on your status as a part-time or full-time student and your enrollment in student insurance. You might think of doctor’s visits or prescription costs when it comes to your student health insurance. It’s actually much more than that! Your MACES Health and Dental Insurance helps you cover the costs of mental health care.
If you are enrolled, you’re in luck! The MACES Health and Dental Insurance plan is partnered with PsyMontreal, which offers affordable care via video conferencing or in person. Visit their website to take a free self-test for anxiety or depression. Your plan will cover up to $400 of your visits during the year, at about $90 a session with PsyMontreal. Or, you can provide the discount to a different accredited provider.
As a part-time or full-time student at McGill, you also have free access to the Wellness Hub services. You must have paid your Student Services fee. You will need a McGill ID and an up to date insurance card (provincial or private). Simply drop in during their hours. All information is listed on this page.
Listening and Information Lines
If you find yourself in need of urgent assistance, remember you can always call an information or listening service. Info-Santé can help you assess what care you need based on the symptoms you are experiencing. You can also call the MCGILL STUDENTS’ NIGHTLINE (514-398-6246) for a confidential listening service. Their list of grounding exercises and helpline numbers is exhaustive and a great thing to keep handy.
Take care of yourself and your mental health this Fall! Remember – you are not alone.