As we are in November, let’s pause and think about something that often goes overlooked: men’s mental health. This month isn’t just about growing a mustache; it’s about raising awareness, breaking down stigma, and creating a space for men to speak up.

Why Does It Matter? Men face unique challenges when it comes to mental health. Societal expectations often tell men to “tough it out,” “man up,” or keep emotions bottled inside. Male stereotypes are not the norm, and men should have the right plus opportunities to speak up, be brave, and ask for support!

These harmful norms can lead to silence, isolation, and, in some cases, devastating consequences. Did you know:1 in 10 men experience anxiety or depression, yet many never seek help. Suicide rates among men are significantly higher than women in Canada.

Men are less likely to access mental health services due to stigma and fear of judgment.

It’s time to change the narrative. Speaking up is a strength—not a weakness. We encourage you to speak up. We are more than just a man; we are who we are: a dad, brother, worker, colleague, student, and so much more! It’s time to confide in and help our fellow brothers. We are not meant to struggle and suffer in silence. There is help available; explore these resources and reach out to learn more:

● Wellness and Psychological Services | FREE mental health supports for students enrolled in at least 1 credit course at MacEwan University. 

• Visit: MacEwan.ca/MentalHealth or call 780-497-5063 or email WPS@MacEwan.ca to learn more. 

• WPS is offering a MacEwan Men’s Circle in the Winter Semester 

  • A six-week supportive group for male-identified students to explore masculinity, share experiences, and build community. This is a unique opportunity to connect, share, and empower male-indefitified students through community building. 

  • Learn more by emailing WPS@macewan.ca 

● Uwill Online Counselling | Uwill makes it easy to get immediate support when you need it. As a student, you can access free, confidential online counselling with a registered therapist.

• Learn more by visiting: https://macewan.ca/Uwill 

• Uwill Student Crisis Line | If you are a MacEwan student experiencing a mental health crisis or feeling distressed, you can connect instantly with a registered therapist through Uwill. Support is free, confidential and available 24/7.

• Be prepared to provide your name, MacEwan email, student ID, date of birth, and address before the session begins.

• Call 1-587-205-8225

● PHET (Peer Health Education Team) PHET | A student-led volunteer cohort that focuses on creating high-impact resources that emphasize health and wellness through Dimensions of Wellness modelling. Check out the PHET Resource Bank for more information and resources. 

● CHARM (Coalition for Harm Reduction at MacEwan) | CHARM promotes evidence-based harm reduction strategies, various high impact resources, and different avenues of harm reduction training with community partners. It also collaborates with campus and community partners across Edmonton to create safer, more informed spaces.

• Website: https://sites.macewan.ca/charm/ 

● 211 Alberta | Text or Call #211 or visit ab.211.ca | Free, confidential 24/7 helpline connecting individuals to mental health, housing, addiction, and social services.

● CMHA Edmonton – Men’s Mental Health Resources | Offers crisis support, counselling, and community programs tailored to men’s mental health.

• Distress Line: 780-482-4357 | Email: main@cmha-edmonton.ab.ca | Website: https://edmonton.cmha.ca 

● Movember Men's Health and Mental Health Campaign  | Global movement funding programs for mental health, suicide prevention, and prostate/testicular cancer.

• Donate Now:  Movember Canada | Information and Communication: info.ca@movember.com 

● Buddy Up Campaign – Centre for Suicide Prevention | Men’s suicide prevention campaign encouraging peer support and real conversations.

• Website: Buddy Up

● CCMF Alberta (Canadian Centre for Men and Families) | Virtual support for men navigating relationship distress, mental health challenges, and family law issues.

• Website: ccmfalberta.ca 

It's time to make a difference, here are some ways we can help and empower and refer male students and male staff/faculty or community members in MacEwan.

 – Steven

Hi everyone! As October wraps up in the blink of an eye, it’s the perfect time to pause and reflect. Between looming deadlines, repetitive routines, and the hustle of university life, it’s easy to lose sight of what really matters: our well-being. Taking a moment to ground ourselves and prioritize self-care isn’t just important; it’s essential.

This month, we’re shining a light on harm reduction and its importance during these hectic times. At MacEwan University, one organization is leading the way: CHARM, short for the Coalition for Harm Reduction at MacEwan.

Founded in 2018, CHARM was born from a collaboration between staff, faculty, students, and community members who recognized the need for a coordinated harm reduction approach on campus. Their mission? To share evidence-based information that empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their health and wellness, raise awareness for harm reduction and recovery-based needs, and advocate for practical, compassionate strategies that reduce harm and support the entire campus community. Whether it’s substance use, mental health, or overall well-being, CHARM is here to help you navigate safely and confidently.

Why Should You Care? Harm reduction isn’t about judgment—it’s about support. It’s about meeting people where they are and providing tools and knowledge that make life safer and healthier. In a world full of stressors, this approach can make all the difference.

Learn More Visit https://sites.macewan.ca/charm

Check out upcoming CHARM events: https://www.macewan.ca/campus-life/events 

Also, don’t miss the October edition of the PHET newsletter for details on the upcoming PHET x CHARM Harm Reduction Fair and CHARM’s National Addiction Awareness Week happening in November. These events offer great opportunities to learn, engage, and contribute to the conversation. Stay cozy, stay informed, and remember—taking care of yourself is never a waste of time.

See you soon!

 – Steven

The Thanksgiving weekend is over, and the reality of university life is back in full swing. Maybe you’re feeling the pressure of midterms, or perhaps you’re reflecting on how the semester has gone so far and thinking, “I haven’t been doing as well as I hoped… how do I bounce back?” 

First, take a moment to breathe. You are not alone, and it is absolutely possible to make an academic comeback. The key is to shift your mindset and create a realistic, personalized plan. Think of your academic comeback as a story—you are the main character, and this is your turning point. Instead of aiming for perfection, focus on progress. Ask yourself what grade is achievable from this point forward, and how you can work toward it. This is where SMART goals come in. 

SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. 

SMART goals can help you define the exact behaviour and actions you need to take to accomplish your goal. An example of a SMART goal is "During the winter semester, I will read my Chem textbook for 30 minutes every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday to help me understand the content shared in lecture".  In this goal, you have defined the specific behaviour you're targeting, you've outlined a time to complete the behaviour, and this goal is achievable, measurable, and relevant.  

Take some time to watch this video that shares more about SMART goal setting:

https://youtu.be/9PwIZwIIv10?si=CCqk7bYUPVvPDJoZ 

Another tip when making an academic-focused goal is connecting with your professors. Professors and instructors are valuable allies in your academic journey. Visit their office hours to discuss your current standing, ask for feedback, and clarify expectations. Together, you can identify what is realistic and what steps you need to take to reach your target grade. 

MacEwan also offers a wide range of resources to support your success. Student Success Navigators provide personalized guidance, while Academic Advising can help if you are considering a program change. The Math and Stats Centre offers tutoring for quantitative courses, and the Writing Centre can help you strengthen your written assignments. Studying with classmates or finding an accountability partner can keep you motivated and on track. The Library is a great place to access academic resources and find quiet study spaces. 

Your academic journey is not defined by one setback; it is shaped by how you respond, adapt, and grow. Set your SMART goals, work with your instructor, and take advantage of the resources around you. Your comeback starts now. If you want to check productivity hacks and more of SMART goal-setting resources, check our Resource Bank! 

Till next time, MacEwan, toodles!