Reduce stigma to increase accessibility and utilization of support services
There should be a focus on breaking down conformity barriers that impede men in the skilled trades from recognizing and seeking out mental health support. More awareness and support campaigns within the skilled trades departments, whether that be through workshops, promotional booths, or events, and creating space for conversation free of judgement and full of respect and trust will be advantageous in tackling this barrier and making support more accessible for trades students.
Students need to know how to access support quickly upon arrival to the program
Whether it’s at the beginning of the semester, during orientation week, or both, skilled trades students should be presented with the correct tools and knowledge on how to access the support they need throughout their academic career.
Embedding mental health and wellbeing workshops into orientation
Consider the addition of mental health and wellbeing programs and workshops during orientation for all skilled trades students. Topics could include stress management, substance use, stigma, depression, anxiety, and more. The workshops would ensure students are well-equipped with the information and resources they need to support themselves and their classmates. These types of awareness and prevention methods would improve help-seeking behaviour and normalize conversations around mental health.
Staff-student relationship building
Strengthen relationships between students and staff. Getting instructor buy-in to promote awareness (e.g., posters, in syllabi) and becoming a familiar face to trades students on campus at events and promotional booths builds a level of trust and respect.
