Enough with awareness campaigns, it\u2019s time to find a solution.<\/p>\n
Brock is the first university to test a new mental health app with Student VIP, the health and dental coverage company provided through the Brock University Students\u2019 Union (BUSU).<\/p>\n
The Integrated Mental Health and Wellness mobile app, known as I.M. Well, is a comprehensive program that aims to defragment the mental health resources available to students on campus, online and in the community.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019re innovation partners. As we roll this out to students, we find out what works, what they need more of, what we could improve on, and we\u2019ll innovate with Student VIP to make it better,\u201d says Chris Green, BUSU General Manager.<\/p>\n
Also included in the app are the 24\/7 live chat, mood tracker, and the option to remain anonymous, providing a safe and confidential space for users.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s highly customized to fit the Brock student. All of our campus partners, especially Residence and Student Services, have fully embraced this new program and have helped to populate it with resources,\u201d he says.<\/p>\n
\u201cThey aren\u2019t new. They exist in many different areas. The app is meant to streamline all of the resources into one core spot that is accessible 24\/7,\u201d he adds.<\/p>\n
Just as people would take care of their physical health, BUSU Vice-president Finance and Administration Faisal Hejazi explains that the app will help put mental health at the forefront, as well.<\/p>\n
\u201cI think we\u2019re more often diligent in taking care of ourselves physically then we are mentally. Physical health and mental health are the same in that we need to make them both a priority,\u201d he says.<\/p>\n
I.M. Well is free to download on Apple and Android devices, and is open to all students, staff, alumni, faculty and anyone with a connection to Brock. Users do not have to be covered under the Student VIP health and dental plan to access resources.<\/p>\n