Equity, diversity and inclusion initiatives at Canadian universities
Carleton University takes action to end the stigma surrounding mental health
Students today face a number of obstacles and stressors throughout their academic careers that can have negative impacts on their mental health, physical health and academic performance. But research has revealed that improving one’s mental wellbeing can improve academic performance, which is why Carleton University has established the From Intention to Action program – more commonly known on campus as FITA.
This program offers customized, one-on-one weekly counselling sessions with trained professionals to undergraduate and graduate students who struggle with mental illnesses and learning disabilities. This program ensures that all students have the right tools to achieve academic success and eliminates the stigma that is often associated with mental health and learning disabilities.
FITA has boosted graduation rates of students with disabilities by about 20 per cent, with similar results for students with mental illnesses, highlighting the immense impacts inclusive excellence can have on students, campuses and communities.
Online information
Carleton University’s From Intention to Action program, 2018
October 2, 2018