The following resources from Ottawa Public Health (OPH) are available to support post-secondary institutions in strengthening student mental health, prevention efforts, and harm reduction strategies.
1. Implementing Mental Health Strategy (Post-secondary Guidance)
As of January 2025, Ontario requires publicly assisted post-secondary institutions to have a student mental health strategy and submit annual reports each January. OPH developed this resource to share additional considerations for strengthening existing strategies and supporting student mental health. The recommendations are intended to be flexible and adaptable as institutional and community needs evolve.
PDF available for download here
2. Violence & Sexual Abuse Prevention + Substance Use Health Resource
OPH provides a range of resources supporting:
- Violence and harassment on campus
- Sexual abuse prevention
- Substance use health and harm reduction
These materials are designed to support awareness, education, and safer environments within post-secondary settings.
PDF available for download here
3. People-First Language: Substance Use Disorder and Stigma
This resource supports the use of respectful, person-centred language when discussing substance use. It aims to reduce stigma by promoting language that recognizes individuals first, rather than defining them by substance use or health conditions.
PDF available for download here
4. Party Safer Fact Sheet
This fact sheet provides harm reduction information and practical strategies to support safer social and party environments. It is intended for students and campus communities to reduce risks and promote informed decision-making.
PDF available for download here
Learn more here: Party Safer – Ottawa Public Health
