Laval University students denounce the lack of psychological support offered to them, even if the university has just added resources to meet the demands that have doubled since the start of the pandemic.
Philippe Larue Santucci, a student, asked for help in December 2022. In February, he had still not obtained an appointment.
“I personally think the services are understaffed,” he said.
Without resources, he went to do several tests on the internet and the result did not surprise him. “It looks like I’m in the middle of a depression,” he confessed.
Stressed by the pandemic, health instructions, his studies and his financial situation, he admits that requesting a consultation was difficult.
“Take the time to go and see the site. Just filling out the form, saying that I recognize that I have a problem, it’s not necessarily easy,” he said.
He would like the university to monitor requests more closely. For example, by informing students of their position on the waiting list.
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Christina Tougat also tried to get help as she went through a more difficult time. “But, they are ratings driven. If the notes aren’t affected, they can’t help, at least in my case. So I was not taken to their psychological help service,” she testified. Discouraged, she stopped the process.
For its part, Laval University recognizes the situation. “We have 15 psychologists. We have just hired three thanks to funding,” explained Louise Careau, director of the help center at Laval University, which supports nearly 5,000 students this year.
The shortage of specialists forces management to turn to stakeholders. “We also have 14 front-line workers available,” said the director.
The university has ensured prioritizing students with the greatest needs. And during the waiting period, lectures and workshops remain available to help students.
Reference-www.journaldemontreal.com