Fleming College

The book is filled with self-care tips and coping strategies to help support students’ mental health

Peterborough ON – (April 21, 2017) – Fleming College is pleased to announce a new mental health initiative created by Fleming students for Fleming students with the support of the college’s Student Services department.

The Self-Care Colouring and Activity Book is filled with self-care tips and strategies, resources on- and off-campus, as well as encouraging pictures just waiting for users to add a splash of colour.

“Originally, the book was imagined to be a Fleming version of the inspired We Believe You – A colouring book for survivors and supporters that was created by Farrah Khan and her team at Ryerson University. However, when speaking with students, it became evident that some of the messages that students wanted to see were universal messages around caring for one’s self, and journeying through adversity,” said Amie Kroes, Project Lead and Student Rights and Responsibilities Officer. “The project then turned into conversation about wellness and how to cope through difficulty.”

Student focus groups provided the information for the content, which includes affirmative statements and coping strategies. Clara Cummings, an artist and then student within the Haliburton School of Art + Design, brought the ideas from her fellow students to life on each page.

“Often times, when people struggle with their mental health, they feel isolated and alone. Mental health is a hard topic to discuss, but when we start breaking down stigma, and start talking, we create change,” said Kroes.

Limited copies of the colouring book can be made available by connecting with Amie Kroes at amie.kroes@flemingcollege.ca. Also, easy to print copies of both the colouring pages as well as the activity pages can be found online: https://department.flemingcollege.ca/living-well/

 “Whatever the reason, or experience that leads a person to struggle with their mental wellness, I want you to know that your community cares, and is here for you. I hope you find the pages in this book a reminder of your inner awesome.” – Excerpt from the book intro written by Amie Kroes, Project Lead.

About Fleming College
Located in the heart of Central Ontario, Fleming College has campus locations in Peterborough, Lindsay, Cobourg and Haliburton. Named for famous Canadian inventor and engineer Sir Sandford Fleming, the college features more than 100 full-time programs in Arts and Heritage, Business, Environmental and Natural Resource Sciences, General Arts and Sciences, Health and Wellness, Justice and Community Development, Skilled Trades and Technology, and Continuing Education. Fleming College has more than 5,900 full-time and 10,000 part-time students, and 71,000 alumni.

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Media inquiries, please contact:
Laura Copeland
Communications Officer
laura.copeland@flemingcollege.ca
705.749.5530 x 1370