Mental wellness is key to academic success. To support student mental health, U of T’s Health and Wellness program has dedicated counsellors to improve student access to counselling.
Leah Direnfeld is the Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy’s wellness counsellor offering confidential counselling services to undergraduate and graduate students enrolled across all degree programs. All students are invited to reach out to Leah for advice on managing stress, including (but not limited to) schedules, exams, relationships, or any unexpected challenge.
Keep reading to learn more about Leah, how to build mental wellness, and how to access wellness resources.
Why did you decide to focus your career on mental health?
My personal experiences and values as well as my work and volunteer experiences inspired me to focus my career on mental health. Giving back to the community and making a positive difference in other people’s lives are driving forces in my day-to-day life.
What are the most important skills to build mental wellness?
I believe that self-awareness is an integral part of building mental wellness. Additionally, some other factors that I believe are important include: curiosity, open mindedness as well as having a desire to grow.
What is one thing you do every day for your mental health?
I do my best to take small breaks throughout the day to stretch and practice informal mindfulness. I also listen to a ‘gratitude story’ most mornings and try to provide myself with permission to be flexible.
Why are mental health and resiliency critical during the pandemic (and always)?
Life is full of challenges and uncertainty. If we do not make our well-being a priority, it will likely be more difficult to sail smoothly through life’s stressors.
How can LDFP students reach you?
Students can contact Health and Wellness at 416-978-8030 (ext.5) to register and schedule their initial appointment. Follow-up appointments are scheduled directly with me.
Remember that U of T has a number of student mental health and well-being supports:
St. George, Health and Wellness Centre
My SSP (support available 24/7/365)
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