Mental Health Support for Student Athletes
Seek support if you are:
Feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed
Feeling distressed by decisions, relationship issues, grief or loss, major life adjustments, academic life, or suicidal thoughts
Managing mental health issues, medication questions, or referral to SFU physician
Affected by substance use, eating disorders or gender identity
Needing personalized tips for general health and wellness
BOOK AN APPOINTMENT TODAY
Ruth Vandenberg
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Ruth is a Registered Psychiatric Nurse who has been working in the mental health field for the past 22 years, and 7 years at SFU. Her approach is practical, using therapy skills and medical training to create a safe and nurturing environment where individuals can heal and grow. She is passionate about breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health and works to educate and raise awareness that mental health is just as important as physical health. Remember: Its ok to ask for help!
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"In a time where I didn't really know who to talk to with the complex emotions I was dealing with, I was able to book an appointment and get to see Ruth within one day of calling. She made it extremely easy to open up and was extremely open and empathetic to finding practical solutions and perspectives to what I was dealing with. I was very sad to move back home for the summer as I could no longer have visits with her. As a student-athlete, it is essential to have a trusted outlet outside of sport that you can turn to, and Ruth was extremely valuable for me in that sense. I would recommend any athlete or person seeking mental health support no matter how small the problem may seem; it's never a bad idea to be pro-active towards mental health" // Testimonial of a basketball athlete
If you need additional support – access SFU Counselling Rapid Access/Intake appointment – 30 minutes
For short-term counselling. Prior to appointment, you will be asked to complete a short questionnaire regarding your presenting concerns. The mental health clinician will review with you to identify a goal and action plan of support, including resources to best accommodate your concerns. Available Monday to Friday
9:30 - 11:30 am
1:30 - 3:30 pm
Appointments can be booked up to 48 hours in advance by phone 778-782-4615.
Mental Health Links
My SSP App (Student Support Program)
Access free, confidential 24/7 phone call, text, or in-person counselling support through the My SSP app.
Call 1-833-768-2188, or download the app on the App Store or Google Play
Sexual Violence Support & Prevention Office
Call 778-782-7233 or email sv-support@sfu.ca
BC Heretohelp.ca
Mental Health Support, Education, Links, and Self-Screening to support yourself or others.
SFU Health and Counselling
SFU Health and Counselling offers various mental health support options. To explore these services, click here or call 778-782-4615.
Available support includes counsellors, mental health nurses, doctors, and identity-based assistance.
SFU Multifaith Centre seeks to serve, support, and provide space for students, staff, and faculty of faith.
For more support options, check out this page.
