Kingston, ON – In recognition of Mental Health Week, Queen’s University is launching an invigorated series of events and workshops under its Thrive 365 wellness programming, designed to promote mental wellbeing and open conversations around mental health across the campus community.
Led by Human Resources, the May programming kicks off on Monday, May 5, with a special session by comedian, author, and mental health advocate Susan Stewart, who will share her lived experience in a talk titled “A Bit More Than a Rough Patch: What a Comedian Learned About Taking Mental Health Seriously.”
This virtual session, scheduled from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m., blends humour and insight to challenge stigma and emphasize the power of resilience. Stewart’s candid storytelling is expected to set a powerful tone for the month ahead, encouraging staff and faculty to engage in honest conversations about mental health at work and beyond. All members of the Queen’s community are welcome and can register online.
Highlights of Thrive 365 May Events
Each Thrive 365 event is free of charge and contributes to the Campus Wellbeing Framework, incorporating employee input and mental health best practices. Here’s a look at the standout sessions scheduled for May:
Building Confidence in Sharing Mental Health Experiences
This empowering session helps individuals feel more prepared when discussing their mental health journeys or offering support to others. Learn how to create a safe and open dialogue.
Preventing and Managing Burnout
Discover the warning signs of burnout and explore actionable strategies for recovery. Participants will learn the different types of rest essential for maintaining mental and emotional stamina.
Silencing Your Inner Critic
Led by TELUS Health, this workshop offers practical tools to tame self-critical thoughts, shift inner dialogue, and cultivate self-compassion—a cornerstone of long-term wellbeing.
Putting Workload Management on the Agenda
This collaborative session encourages employees to share experiences and strategies related to managing workloads in healthy, sustainable ways.
EFAP Informative Session
An in-depth introduction to the Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP). Attendees will explore a wide range of services, including confidential counselling, financial and legal guidance, parenting support, and more.
A Commitment to Wellbeing
Thrive 365 is not just a campaign—it’s part of Queen’s broader commitment to creating a mentally healthy workplace. The May lineup is the result of university-wide data insights, employee feedback, and industry trends, ensuring that the content is relevant, impactful, and practical.
Programming is made possible through strategic internal and external partnerships, including generous support from Manulife.
As Mental Health Week approaches, Queen’s encourages all staff and faculty to take advantage of the Thrive 365 offerings, not only to support their own wellness but to contribute to a campus culture where mental health is prioritized, and stigma is left behind.
