Mental Health, Wellness and Counselling Support
WCC prioritizes the mental well-being of students with accessible and confidential support services.
Health Insurance
- BC’s Medical Services Plan (MSP): All International students studying in British Columbia for more than six months are required to enroll in MSP. WCC helps students apply for this essential coverage upon arrival.
- Private Health Insurance: For initial coverage before MSP activation, WCC guides students in selecting and purchasing private health insurance plans tailored to their needs.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Both MSP and private insurance cover routine medical check-ups, emergency care, and hospital visits.
Mental Health and Wellness
WCC prioritizes the mental well-being of students with accessible and confidential support services.
- Students have access to the Here2Talk program, ensuring that counseling services are readily available to promote a healthy and supportive learning environment.
- Workshops and Wellness Activities: Regular sessions on stress management, mindfulness, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance are organized to promote mental health.
- Professional Counselling Support for your Unique Supports: The college has a contracted professional counselling support through Simply Counselling, which provides personalized support to help you overcome personal and academic challenges. Their professional counselors offer one-on-one sessions that focus on your individual needs, helping you develop coping strategies, build resilience, and enhance your overall well-being. Students who want to access this professional support can reach out to studentservices@wcc.ca to seek help in booking their sessions.
Emergency Contacts
- Local Emergency Numbers: WCC provides all international students with information on how to reach police, fire, and ambulance services in emergencies (dial 911 in Canada).
- On-Campus Security: The campus security team is available 7 days a week to assist students with safety concerns or emergencies.
Addictions and Overdose
At Western Community College, we understand the challenges that international students may face when adjusting to a new environment, culture, and academic life. Your well-being is our priority, and we offer a range of support services to ensure you have the resources you need to thrive.
Naloxone Kits for Opioid Overdose Prevention
- Naloxone kits are available at all WCC campuses to address opioid-related emergencies.
- Students can request a kit discreetly at the front desk, where trained staff can also provide instructions on how to use it.
Health and Safety Support
- Students can directly contact the Student Services Department for assistance with addiction concerns or health and safety related issues. They can reach out to their floor fire safety marshals, posted on notice boards on each floor.
- The student services department will provide support and will also reach out to local resources for recovery and crisis management.
Community Referrals
- For students requiring specialized care, we provide referrals to trusted local organizations, addiction recovery centers, and healthcare providers.