Well-Being and Student Support

Wellness matters

At Okanagan College, we take the health and wellness of our students and employees seriously. Our team is committed to investing in you, as you navigate the highs and lows of being a student and employee. Explore our page for resources, important contacts and other information pertaining to your wellness.

What is wellness?

Wellness is characterized by feelings of positivity and happiness and realizing one's full potential, often as a result of the holistic and strength-based pursuit of health. It is about flourishing physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually. We firmly believe that having a healthy mind and body contribute to academic and career success. We have a responsibility and opportunity to impact positively on the health and wellness of our students and employees.

Want to talk to someone after hours?

Here2Talk

Here2Talk offers free, confidential counselling and community referral services 24/7 to B.C. post-secondary students. Access the services by the app, website or by calling: 1-877-857-3397 in Canada. If you are outside Canada,  dial +1-604-642-5212; international calling charges may apply.

Crisis lines

Crisis Centre: If you are considering suicide or are concerned about someone who may be, please call 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433). 

KUU-US is an Indigenous, B.C.-wide crisis line offering culturally safe crisis response to Indigenous people at risk. The line operates 24/7. For adults/elders: 250-723-4050, Child/youth: 250-723-2040, Toll free: 1-800-588-8717

TalkCampus

TalkCampus is an online global mental health peer support network allowing students access to instant, online peer support 24/7. Students can download the TalkCampus app on Google Play/App Store. Register using your College e-mail (firstname.lastname@myokanagan.bc.ca)

Health & Wellbeing Resources

9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline

  • A confidential, 24/7 Canada-wide suicide crisis helpline
  • Call or text 9-8-8

BC Suicide Prevention and Intervention Line

  • An immediate, barrier-free, confidential support available by phone call.
  • For individuals who are or know someone who is having thoughts of suicide.
  • Available 24/7 and in up to 140 languages.
  • 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433)

BC Mental Health Support Line

  • For individuals who would like emotional support, information, and resources specific to mental health in BC.
  • Available 24/7 and is toll-free anywhere in the province.
  • 310-6789 (no area code needed)

KUU-US Crisis Line Society

  • Available to all Indigenous folks in BC, offering confidential, culturally safe risk-management and crisis response.
  • Available 24/7 and is toll-free anywhere in the province.
  • 1-800-KUU-US17 (1-800-588-8717)

OC Counselling Services

  • Clinical Counsellors providing a safe and confidential space to explore concerns and strengthen your ability to cope right here on campus.
  • Short-term counselling related to personal, mental health, career, and/or academic challenges.
  • To request an appointment or for more information visit the OC Counselling Services webpage.

Here2Talk

  • Students both domestic and international, who are currently registered in a BC post-secondary institution, can access this free, confidential counselling and community referral service.
  • Available 24/7 via app, phone, and online chat.
  • 1-877-857-3397

Youth Space

  • A free online crisis and emotional support chat service for any youth under 30.
  • Available every day between 6pm - Midnight (PST) via online chat or text.
  • Text line: 778-783-0177

National Eating Disorder Information Centre (NEDIC)

  • Provides information, resources, referrals, and support to individuals affected by eating disorders. 
  • Phone and live chat hours (PST): 
    • Monday – Thursday: 6:00am – 6:00pm 
    • Friday: 6:00am – 3:00pm  
    • Saturday and Sunday: 9:00am – 3:00pm 
  • 1-866-NEDIC-20 (1-866-633-4220) 
  • nedic@uhn.ca  

Okanagan College is committed to fostering supportive campuses promoting assistance, intervention, and consent. If you have been affected by sexual violence or know someone who needs assistance we are here to help with support, information, and resources.

OC Counselling Services

  • Clinical Counsellors providing a safe and confidential space to process your experience with sexual violence while working collaboratively with you to strengthen your ability to cope right here on campus.
  • Can help make referrals to longer-term counselling options and supports in the community.
  • To request an appointment or for more information visit the OC Counselling Services webpage.

REES

  • A simple, secure online platform for reporting sexual violence.
  • REES allows members of our campus community to Create a Record of the incident and choose from multiple reporting options: Anonymous Report, Connect to My Campus, or Report to Police.
  • It can be accessed online anywhere, anytime.

Elizabeth Fry Society

  • A feminist organization dedicated to ending domestic and sexual violence, providing support services, and seeking justice for all survivors.
  • Their mission is to support and empower survivors of intimate partner and sexual abuse, exploitation, or violence.
  • Offers prevention and intervention services in collaboration with community partners.
  • Services are available to residents of Kelowna and the Central Okanagan.
  • 250-763-4613
  • info@efryokanagan.com  

Crime Victim Assistance Program (CVAP)

  • A financial benefits program to assist survivors, immediate family members, and certain witnesses in dealing with the effects of violent crime. This organization aims to help offset financial loss and assist in recovery from injury.
  • 1-866-660-3888

Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) – Interior Health

  • If you have experienced sexual assault and wish to seek medical care, there are SART physicians available at each hospital in the Interior Health Region.
  • These specialized doctors can offer STI prevention, care, and treatment as well as emergency contraceptive options.
  • There is no obligation to file a police report to access this service.
  • You are welcome to bring a support individual such as a friend or case worker from The Elizabeth Fry Society, SOWINS, or the SAFE Society.
  • Kelowna General Hospital: 250-862-4000
  • Penticton General Hospital: 250-492-4000
  • Vernon Jubilee Hospital: 250-545-2211
  • Shuswap Lake General Hospital: 250-833-3600

South Okanagan Women in Need Society (SOWINS)

  • A service to provide shelter, safety, and support by helping individuals recognize, understand, and overcome the impacts of abuse. 
  • For individuals who have experienced, or who are at risk of experiencing violence or abuse.
  • Services are available to residents of Penticton and the South Okanagan.
  • No referral necessary.
  • 250-491-4366
  • info@sowins.com

SAFE Society

  • Provides multiple programs and services for survivors of sexual violence and their families. 
  • Some of the programs include community-based victim services, sexual violence support, outreach, family violence prevention, and transition houses. 
  • Offers a confidential, online-chat support and consultation from 10:00am – 10:00pm daily. 
  • Services are available to residents of Salmon Arm and the North and South Shuswap. 
  • 250-832-9616 

Archway Society

  • Provides free, safe, and confidential support to survivors of sexual violence in hopes of empowering each survivor to make the choices that are best for them.  
  • Offers a variety of services including medical care and forensic exams, reporting options, navigation of the justice system, connection to community resources, and ongoing emotional support. 
  • Services are available to residents of Vernon and the North Okanagan.  
  • Monday – Friday: 8:30am – 4:30pm: 250-309-6733 
  • 24/7 Support Line: 250-542-1122 
  • SAS@archwaysociety.ca 

Okanagan College Students’ Union (OCSU) Health & Dental Plan

  • All full-time students on the Kelowna, Penticton, and Salmon Arm campuses are automatically registered with the extended medical and dental benefits through Greenshield.

Vernon Students’ Association Okanagan College (VSAOC) Health & Dental Plan

  • The VSAOC has established an extended health and dental plan that is mandatory for all Vernon students enrolled in two or more courses.

Crime Victim Assistance Program

  • A financial benefits program to assist survivors, immediate family members, and certain witnesses in dealing with the effects of violent crime. This organization aims to help offset financial loss and assist in recovery from injury.
  • 1-866-660-3888

HealthLink BC

  • For non-urgent medical consultation or information on thousands of health topics.
  • Available 24/7.
  • Call 8-1-1

TELUS Health MyCare App

  • An app that lets you see a doctor, psychologist, counsellor, or dietitian from your phone for little or no cost.
  • You can book appointments that work for you including during evening and weekends.

Okanagan Women’s Clinic

  • Provides many services including IUD insertion and removal, contraceptive counselling, Nexplanon implants, endometrial biopsies and more.
  • To access this service, a referral from a family physician is required.
  • 778-484-5166

OC Wellness Peer Ambassadors

  • Provides information, resources, and referrals in a welcoming and inclusive way. 
  • Find them at OC events on campus throughout the year.
  • For more information on this program contact the Recreation and Student Life office.
  • kelownarec@okanagan.bc.ca

Indigenous Peer Mentors

  • Provides culturally appropriate information, resources, and referrals in a welcoming and inclusive way.
  • Engages with all peers in the Indigenous Centre, building community and promoting services and events.
  • For more information about this program contact the Indigenous Services office.
  • Indigenous@okanagan.bc.ca 

TalkCampus

  • Online, mental health network that offers students instant access to peer support.
  • Available 24/7 via the app.
  • Register using your Okanagan College email (firstname.lastname@myokanagan.bc.ca)

The Pantry Kelowna

  • A student foodbank on the Kelowna campus run by the OC Students’ Union that provides non-perishable goods and hygiene products.
  • Access is available by appointment only.

The Harbour Penticton

  • A student foodbank on the Penticton campus run by the OC Students’ Union that provides non-perishable goods and hygiene products.
  • Access is available by appointment only.

Salmon Arm Campus Food Security Services

  • The Free Shelf: The OC Students’ Union on the Salmon Arm campus provides a food shelf to support students who are experiencing food insecurity.
  • Lunch Once a Month: Once each month, up to 10 students can sign up to receive a $10 gift card to Tim Hortons.

Vernon Students’ Association Okanagan College (VSAOC) Food Security Services

  • Emergency Vouchers: Provides emergency food vouchers for students.
  • Student Food Bank: Students can pick up food bag packages and grocery store gift certificates from the VSAOC office.
  • The Good Food Box Program: A program VSAOC provides for students who require help on a monthly basis.
  • Confectionary Sales: The VSAOC office offers snacks for low prices.

Elizabeth Fry Indigenous Victim Services

  • A feminist organization dedicated to ending domestic and sexual violence, providing support services, and seeking justice for all survivors.
  • Their mission is to support and empower survivors of intimate partner and sexual abuse, exploitation, or violence.
  • Recognizes the need and duty to provide culturally appropriate services.
  • Their Indigenous Victim Outreach Services Support Workers provide trauma-informed practice in the context of emotional support, practical support, and appropriate referrals to those affected by intimate partner violence and sexual abuse/assault.
  • 250-763-4613
  • info@efryokanagan.com

Ki-low-na Friendship Society

  • Provides for the mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being of all peoples through the development of community-based services while encouraging the community to preserve, share and promote Aboriginal cultural distinctiveness.
  • Offers programming rooted in the Indigenous world view. This includes services in health and wellness, housing, employment, cultural healing, and much more.
  • 250-763-4905

Ooknakane Friendship Centre

  • The Ooknakane Friendship Centre is an Aboriginal Not-For-Profit society that is committed to providing holistic, culturally-driven programs and services designed to support, educate and strengthen people of all nations.
  • Offers resources for family support, mental health and addictions, Elder support, and employment.
  • 250-490-3504

First Nations Health Authority (FNHA)

  • Works towards the health and wellness of all First Nations in BC through its unique approach to wellness and its support of community wellness activities. 
  • They offer in-person and telehealth options for many of their services. 
  • 604-693-6500

First Nations Virtual Doctor of the Day

  • Enables First Nations people in BC with limited or no access to their own doctors to make virtual appointments. 
  • This is a unique service for First Nations people in BC​​ and their family members, even if those family members are not Indigenous. The program includes doctors of Indigenous ancestry, and all doctors are trained to follow the principles and practices of cultural safety and humility.
  • Available 7 days a week from 8:30am-4:30pm
  • 1-855-344-3800

Hope for Wellness Helpline

  • Available to all Indigenous people across Canada.  
  • Experienced and culturally competent counsellors are reachable by telephone and online chat 24/7. 
  • Both services are available in English and French.  
  • Telephone support is also available upon request in: 
    • Cree; 
    • Ojibway (Anishinaabemowin); 
    • Inuktitut. 
    • (Note: Supports in Cree, Ojibway, and Inuktitut are not available 24/7, so you may need to call in to find out the next time that a language-speaker will be available.) 
  • 1-855-242-3310 

Cultural Liaisons

  • Members of the OC International Team who can assist with all aspects of studying in Canada and offer culturally sensitive supports.
  • culturalliaison@okanagan.bc.ca

Immigration Advising

  • Members of the OC International Team who can support international students with the immigration aspects of studying in Canada.
  • intedimmigration@okanagan.bc.ca

Medical Coverage

  • There are three types of medical insurance that OC international students can access. Please note that there are different conditions for each of these services. Connect with the OC International Team if you are unsure of what you qualify for.
  • Guard.me: An insurance provider for international students who are new to Canada, do not yet have MSP, or have a study permit for 6 months or less.
  • Medical Services Plan (MSP): BC public health insurance which is available to all students with a study permit for 6 months or more.
  • Extended Health and Dental Plan: Available through OC Students’ Unions.

This Space Belongs to You

  • Offers free and accessible counselling for 2SLGBTQIA+ and/or IBPOC youth (up to age 24) within the Syilx Okanagan region.
  • Operates from an anti-oppressive, trauma informed, anti-racist, decolonial, and intersectional lens.
  • Has a Registered Nurse (RN) on staff who provides psychoeducation and consultation based on identified needs.
  • Self and community referrals are welcome.
  • thisspacebelongstoyou@gmail.com

Inclusive Therapists

  • An inclusive national therapist directory that offers a safer, simpler way to find a culturally responsive, LGBTQIA2S+ affirming, social justice-oriented practitioner.
  • Works to center the needs of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) and LGBTQIA2S+ intersections (QTBIPOC).

Trans Lifeline

  • A national trans-led organization that connects trans people to the community, support, and resources they need to survive and thrive. 
  • Resources available include direct emotional support, financial support, advocacy, and education.
  • Offers a 24/7 peer support phone service for trans individuals and questioning peers in English and Spanish. 
  • 1-877-330-6366

TransParent Okanagan

  • A non-profit organization developed by and for parents and caregivers of trans, gender diverse, and two-spirit people in Kelowna and the Okanagan. 
  • Provides community consultation, advising and advocacy on issues related to families of trans youth.  
  • Operates a peer support network, monthly meetings, guest speakers, and a lending library of books, videos and other resources. 

Kelowna Pride

  • A catalyst for building and celebrating the strength, equality, dignity and self-determination of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community in Kelowna and the Okanagan. 
  • In addition to planning the yearly pride events, they also offer resources including various support groups, hotlines, book suggestions, and supportive health options.  

Mental Health & Substance Use Services - Interior Health

  • Aims to provide a safe space to be connected to services such as substance use and treatment services, Opioid Agonist Treatment, Substance Use Day Treatment, and adult mental health services.
  • No referral is required and virtual as well as in-person appointment are available.
  • 250-310-6478

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)

  • An international fellowship of people who come together to solve their drinking problem. Membership is open to anyone who wishes to achieve and maintain sobriety. 
  • Meetings are free with no requirements to participate. 
  • Groups are offered worldwide and online. 

Narcotics Anonymous (NA)

  • An international fellowship of people who come together to solve their drinking problem. Membership is open to anyone who wishes to achieve and maintain sobriety.
  • Meetings are free with no requirements to participate.
  • Groups are offered worldwide and online. 

Al-Anon Family Groups

  • A mutual support group of peers who are experiencing challenges related to an individual struggling with substance misuse in their lives.
  • The group is open to anyone who desires this support, even if they are no longer in contact with the individual in question.
  • Al-Anon is free for anyone over 18 and Alateen is available for individuals younger than 18.
  • Groups are offered worldwide, online, and over the phone. 

Foundry

  • A province-wide network of integrated health and wellness services for people ages 12-24 and their caregivers. 
  • Offers services in mental health care, substance use services, physical and sexual health care, youth and family peer supports, and social services. 
  • Supports can be accessed in-person or virtually via the website or app. 
  • Foundry Centre Kelowna: 
  • Foundry Centre Penticton 

The Bridge Youth & Family Services

  • Provides programs and resources to children, youth, and families of the Central Okanagan. 
  • Offers four broad areas of services: 
    • Parenting education and support 
    • Youth and family counselling 
    • Foster home and caregiver support  
    • Recovery and addiction services including detox, withdrawal management, supported recovery, and treatment. 
  • 1-855-760-0456 
  • Withdrawal Management Intake Direct Line: 250-878-6316 
  • info@thebridgeservices.ca 

Success Centre

  • Provides free, comprehensive, learning assistance to OC students for a variety of subjects including English, reading, writing, math, science, and the trades. 
  • Help is available online and in-person on every OC campus. 

Living Positive

  • Provides support throughout the Central Okanagan to individuals living with and/or at risk of HIV, Hepatitis C, and other sexually transmitted infections.  
  • Services include harm reduction, prevention and education resources, and supportive programs that focus on individual and community health and wellness.  
  • Offers free harm reduction pick up Monday – Friday: 2:00pm – 5:00pm 
  • Offers free, anonymous drug checking services Tuesday – Friday: 2:00pm – 5:00pm 
  • 778-753-5832 
  • Info@lprc.ca 

Connect App by Lifeguard

  • A life-saving app that links users to mental health and substance use resources. 
  • Features include crisis resources, suicide support, medical services, peer chat, and a use alone timer for substance use. 
  • Offers education regarding performing CPR, drug alerts, naloxone distribution, safe consumption sites, and more. 

Harm Reduction Team

  • An initiative out of UBCO that works throughout the Okanagan to reduce the harms of substance use and related policies. 
  • Offers education, resources, and programs regarding harm reduction, drug checking, and recovery options. 
  • They host various drug checking clinics weekly throughout Kelowna in addition to naloxone training and distribution, take-home fentanyl test strips, and sterile supplies. Check the website for current locations and hours. 
  • 250-864-1431 
  • harm.reduction@ubc.ca 

Legal Aid BC

  • Provides free legal help for BC residents.

BC Human Rights Clinic

  • Provides free legal services to people who need help with a provincial human rights complaint.

Access Pro Bono

  • Free lawyer referral service and several pro bono programs serving the critical legal needs of people and non-profit organizations across BC.

Okanagan Charter

Okanagan College has formally adopted the Okanagan Charter, An International Charter for Health Promoting Universities and Colleges, signifying the institution’s continued commitment to health and well-being at its campuses.

Note that we update this page frequently. This page is not meant to be an exhaustive list. If you have a suggestion, please email studentservices@okanagan.bc.ca and our team will review the possibility of adding it to this page.