University of Guelph president Franco Vaccarino appeared on TVO’s The Agenda with Steve Paikin on May 3. Vaccarino took part in a roundtable discussion on how Ontario post-secondary institutions are dealing with a rising demand for student mental health care services.

Vaccarino said the increased demand is due to many factors, including reduced stigma about seeking mental health services.

He said U of G is committed to taking an integrated approach to mental health. Among other initiatives, the University is introducing a “one location” model for students to access all health care and support, making services usable and easy to navigate.

Vaccarino, who serves as a director on the board of Universities Canada, added that all universities recognize the importance of good student mental health. Universities are working together on co-ordinated approaches that meet national standards and can be modified to suit individual schools.