Health Promotion

Health Promotion is about helping individuals and communities improve their health and well-being by building knowledge, developing skills, and creating supportive environments. At Trent University, health promotion focuses on fostering a healthy, inclusive campus where students can thrive academically, socially, emotionally, and physically.

Peer Wellness Educators at Trent University Durham are trained student leaders who promote health and well-being across campus. Their goal is to foster an inclusive community where students feel connected, supported, and empowered.

They help establish this by:

• Providing interactive programming, information, and education to reduce stigma
• Hosting self-care activities, events, and campaigns
• Facilitating prevention initiatives
• Partnering with community-based organizations to share new information and practise new skills

Past initiatives have included a therapy dog program, art therapy workshops, mental health workshops, yoga, and suicide alertness training. Each academic year, we focus on providing local resources, interactive workshops in collaboration with community partners, and activities addressing student-specific issues and topics.

• Peer Wellness Educators are recruited alongside other Trent Work Study positions. Applications open near the end of the fall term for the following academic year, so watch for available positions on the Student Experience Portal and follow @trentdurham.studentlife on Instagram.
• You can also support our programming by volunteering with the Peer Wellness Educator team.
• We welcome suggestions and requests that complement our planned programming, as well as feedback about your experiences. To get in touch, email durhamwellness@trentu.ca.

Information about upcoming programs, workshops, and events can be found on the Trent University Events Calendar. Many events are also promoted through @trentdurham.studentlife on Instagram. Information about available services and resources can be found on the Student Wellness Services webpage.

• Physical wellness is about having the energy and health to support your daily student life. It includes caring for your body through sleep, movement, nutrition, and rest. When your physical needs are supported, it is easier to stay focused, active, and engaged in your studies and campus life.
  • Strategies for Physical Wellness:
    • Keep a consistent sleep routine, even during busy weeks
    • Move your body in ways that fit your schedule
    • Take breaks from screens when studying for long periods
    • Eat regular meals and avoid skipping food during busy days
    • Drink water throughout the day
  • Campus Resources for Physical Wellness:
    • Use campus recreation spaces when you can
    • Access the Trent Durham Food Pantry for food security supports
    • Explore intramural sports programs on campus
    • Activate your gym membership to explore local fitness centres
    • Explore walking and biking paths around campus

• Social wellness is about building meaningful connections and feeling a sense of belonging on campus. University is a place to meet new people, share experiences, and build relationships that support your growth. Strong social connections can make your student experience more engaging and rewarding.
• Strategies for Social Wellness:
  • Get to know classmates and form study groups
  • Stay connected with friends and family
  • Build relationships that feel supportive and healthy
  • Make small social interactions part of your day
  • Balance social time with academic responsibilities
• Campus Resources for Social Wellness:
  • Join clubs or student groups that interest you
  • Attend campus events when you are able
  • Try peer mentoring or leadership opportunities
  • Volunteer on campus
  • Gain new experiences through student jobs or co-op opportunities

• Mental Wellness
  • Mental wellness is about developing confidence, self-awareness, and emotional balance as you grow through your university journey. It includes how you think, learn, and respond to experiences. Building mental wellness helps you understand yourself and thrive in both academic and personal settings.
  • Strategies for Mental Wellness:
    • Break large tasks into smaller steps
    • Try mindfulness or breathing exercises
    • Limit social media when it feels overwhelming
    • Talk to someone when things feel difficult
    • Make time for rest and hobbies
  • Campus Resources for Mental Wellness:
    • Book an appointment with Counselling Services
    • Explore how Student Accessibility Services may be beneficial for you
    • Attend events and workshops during Thrive Week
    • Access mental wellness programming, such as the EveryBody Project
    • Use digital tools in moments of crisis, such as I.M. Well

• Vocational wellness is about exploring your interests and building direction for your future. University is a time to discover strengths, gain experience, and connect your learning to meaningful goals. It is also about building a path that feels both purposeful and sustainable.
• Strategies for Vocational Wellness:
  • Build your resume over time
  • Look for volunteer or part-time work experience
  • Manage your time so your workload stays balanced
  • Talk to professors or professionals in your field
  • Avoid overloading your schedule
• Campus Resources for Vocational Wellness:
  • Attend career fairs and workshops
  • Make an appointment with Academic Advising
  • Explore supports offered through Careerspace
  • Follow @trentdurham.advisingandcareers on Instagram
  • Register for and attend a Career Skills Development Micro-Credential workshop

• Environmental wellness is about the spaces where you live, learn, and spend your time. A supportive environment can help you feel focused, comfortable, and connected to campus life. It also includes caring for shared spaces and contributing to a healthy and sustainable community.
• Strategies for Environmental Wellness:
  • Spend time outdoors when possible
  • Practice sustainable habits
  • Maintain a comfortable living environment
  • Choose study spots that match your focus needs
  • Keep your digital space organized
• Campus Resources for Environmental Wellness:
  • Check out volunteer opportunities on campus
  • Attend training sessions with the Sustainability Office
  • Enjoy meals on reusable plates or, when taking food to go, use Trent’s ecoTray program
  • Become a Green Ambassador
  • Shop at the Free Store

• Financial wellness is about feeling confident in managing your money as a student. It includes planning, budgeting, and making choices that support your academic goals and personal needs. Building financial skills now can help you feel more prepared for the future.
• Strategies for Financial Wellness:
  • Apply for scholarships and bursaries early
  • Use student discounts when possible
  • Plan ahead for tuition and living costs
  • Create a simple budget for yourself
  • Ask for help when financial questions come up
• Campus Resources for Financial Wellness:
  • Access support through the Financial Aid Office
  • Apply for a Trent Work Study position
  • Attend financial literacy workshops
  • Book an appointment with the Trent Durham Food Pantry to help reduce grocery costs
  • Apply for OSAP

• Spiritual wellness is about exploring what gives your life meaning, purpose, and direction. It can be shaped by faith, culture, values, or personal reflection. It supports a deeper sense of identity and helps you stay grounded in what matters most to you.
• Strategies for Spiritual Wellness:
  • Practice mindfulness or meditation
  • Connect with cultural or faith communities
  • Explore your personal identity and beliefs
  • Attend inclusive cultural or spiritual events
  • Reflect on your values and goals
• Campus Resources for Spiritual Wellness:
  • Visit the multi-faith room on campus
  • Join or create a faith-based club on campus
  • Connect with Spiritual Affairs at Trent