Wellbeing Learning Hub
Peer Support
Student life brings with it the demands of academics, relationships, work, and all other facets of your life which may impact your wellbeing. Whether you're just starting university and want to learn how to promote your mental wellbeing throughout your student experience, or you're a current student and have been experiencing challenging feelings, it's important to have a space to share, feel understood, and learn skills for life which will prepare you to navigate difficult times.
Student Integrated Health and Wellbeing offers both group and individual peer support to all TMU students. You can expect supportive and caring environments to discuss your concerns in our groups, ran in partnership with Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences, as well as in individual appointments with our Peer Supporters.
Peer Support is described as emotional and practical support between two or more people who share a common lived experience. This can be the experience of a mental illness, mental health concern(s), or any other life event which has an impact on our overall wellbeing.
Click below to learn more about our peer support services:
TMU Single Parent Experiences Survey
Health Promotion Programs at TMU recognize that single parents encounter adverse challenges when accessing and navigating post-secondary education that can negatively impact their success. In response to this, we are creating TMU's very first single-parent-focused support program to offset these barriers and challenges. Your responses will directly contribute to the development of educational support services and resources that best address the diverse needs of single parent student navigating post-secondary education.
The survey will take approximately 5-10 minutes to complete. As a thank you for your time, completing this survey automatically enters you into a draw to win a TMU One card top-up valued at $25.
What will my peer chat be like?
Students attending either individual or group peer support can expect a safe, empathetic environment where space is created for them to share stories, discuss emotions, and reflect on their lived experiences alongside a trained Peer Supporter. Individual peer support appointments are taken in the Centre for Student Development and Counselling or online through a secure Google Meets appointment. Appointments are scheduled for 45 minutes but can be adjusted to fit the student’s needs.
What is a Peer Supporter?
Peer Supporters use their lived experience navigating academic and mental health concerns to empower and assist others. This is often achieved through the use of interpersonal skills to help foster confidence, connection, and self-esteem. Peer Supporters receive training in areas such as building connection, facilitating discussion, and empowering others through empathy and advocacy.
What’s the difference between peer support and counselling?
Peer support services, both individual and group, are not meant to be clinical treatment for mental illness or mental health concerns more broadly. The work we do together is supportive and validating in nature, however, is not psychotherapy, counselling, or meant to replace psychotherapy or counselling.
If looking for clinical support or treatment for mental health concerns, Peer Supporters can connect you to appropriate services at TMU or in the broader community.
How can I get connected?
E-mail: Alvin Singh, Peer Support Specialist at alvin.singh@torontomu.ca
After successfully booking a chat with Alvin, you can expect a follow-up email from him to confirm your preference for either an in-person or online meeting. On Friday's, he will offer virtual peer chats via the google meet. Your well-being is important to us, and we here to make your experience as comfortable and beneficial as possible feel free to have camera on or off as you see comfortable.
Learning Helpful Habits: Short Series Peer Support Group
Dates: Wednesdays, November 20, 27, and December 4, 2024
Time: 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM (Weekly)
Modality: Join Zoom Meeting
https://torontomu.zoom.us/j/98877918013?pwd=ucFzuCYJ5TSRBMzCpuA78w8pZ6pboE.1 (external link, opens in new window)
Meeting ID: 988 7791 8013
Passcode: 885691
Building and maintaining positive habits can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our shorter series focuses on key topics to help you develop practical strategies for managing stress, overcoming self-criticism, and setting healthy boundaries.
This condensed program is designed to provide a focused experience for students seeking targeted support and practical tools. Whether you're continuing from the full series or joining us for the first time, we welcome all students looking to enhance their wellbeing.
Weekly Topics:
- Week 1 (November 20): Stress Management
- Week 2 (November 27): Self-Criticism
- Week 3 (December 4): Boundaries
Learning Helpful Habits Peer Support Group in partnership with Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences
Dates: Mondays from September 30th to November 11, 2024
Time: 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM (Weekly)
(No group during Reading Week and Thanksgiving)
Modality: Virtual Group. New students are welcome at every session
Where: Join Zoom Meeting https://torontomu.zoom.us/j/95565848118?pwd=i5VGQ0LZZAlOuauURh5oqIJwEfKW1o.1#success (external link, opens in new window)
Building positive habits can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone.
Whether you’re aiming to set new routines, shake off old habits, or just want to hang out with supportive folks with their own lived experiences, Learning Helpful Habits is here for you. Dive into honest talks about goal setting, share your wins, get advice, and celebrate your journey with like-minded folks.
This group has been designed based on feedback from your peers as to what is relevant to the current student experience. We welcome those who have taken this course before and newcomers alike!
Check out our lineup!
Week 1: Building habits
Week 2: Stress management
Week 3: Self criticism
Week 4: Boundaries
Week 5: Burnout
Week 6: Guest Speaker
Dates: Tuesdays from October 1 to November 5, 2024 (Weekly)
Time: 1:00 - 2:00 PM
Modality: In-person group. New students are welcome at every session
Where: POD 50B
Welcome to Campus Connection Corner In Partnership with Jack.Org TMU – where fun meets connection! 🎉
Campus Connection Corner is our ultimate hub for finding support, making friends, and enjoying uni life to the fullest. Take a break from your busy schedule to treat yourself! From creative workshops to exciting game nights, come find your place and connect with others.
Check out our lineup!
Week 1: Game Day
Week 2: Trivia - Tmu themed and Pop Culture
Week 3: Virtual gameday ( During Reading Week)
Week 4: Creative Writing
Week 5: Bingo - TMU/ Toronto Core
Week 6: Vision Boards
Dates: Tuesdays from November 5 to December 10, 2024 (Weekly)
Time: 3:00 - 4:30 PM
This group offers a supportive space for exploring and affirming the complexity and richness of Black student life and emotional health. Students will connect with themselves and their peers, discover practical wellbeing strategies, and enjoy lighthearted joy and playfulness. Facilitated by Black staff, the group focuses on connection, practical strategies, and embracing joy.
Snacks & refreshments will be provided.
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Empowerment through Self Care in partnership with Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences
Date: Wednesdays from October 2 to November 13, 2024 (Weekly)
Time: 12:00 - 1:00 PM
Modality: In-person group. New students are welcome at every session
Where: POD 50 B
( No Group During Reading Week)
Need a break from the uni grind? Looking for a space to unwind?
Join Empowerment through Self Care!
Whether you're just getting into self-care or you're a seasoned pro, our peer support facilitators will provide all the resources and support necessary for you to take control of your wellbeing this semester. Through our guided group self care activities like journaling and vision boarding, you’ll learn practical wellbeing skills while connecting with other students!
During the one hour sessions, our topics are accompanied by various interactive elements to ensure students are not simply listening to another lecture and are enjoying themselves. We welcome those who have taken this course before and newcomers alike! Free snacks included!
Check out our lineup!
Week 1: Building Confidence
Week 2: Games and Crafts ( Vision Boards)
Week 3: The Art of Visualizing (Cootie Catchers)
Week 4: WRAP ( Self Care Toolkit)
Week 5: Turning Inward to Self-Discovery (Journaling)
Week 6: Guest Speaker
Date: Wednesdays from September 25 to November 27, 2024 (Bi-Weekly)
Time: 1:30 - 2:30 PM
Modality: In-person group. New students are welcome at every session
Where: POD 50 B
Hey Queer folks! Looking for a space of your own?
Whether you’re questioning, in the closet, newly out or a seasoned pro, we’re here for you!
Join us at Queer Community Circle, a safe space for 2SLGBTQ+ individuals to come together, share experiences, support one another, and build community! Facilitated by Queer peer support facilitators, we’ll guide you through discussions and activities that provide inclusive support, connection, and joy to queer folks no matter what stage they’re at.
Our weekly sessions are structured to encourage guided discussions about queer resilience, relationships, politics and culture along with fun activities!
Check out our lineup!
Week 1: Mixer ( September 25)
Week 2: Queer Storytelling Circle & Bingo ( October 2)
Week 3: Queer Love & Speed Dating ( October 23)
Week 4: Queer Family Matters & Collaging (October 30)
Week 5: Queer Rights & Zine Making ( November 13)
Week 6: Queer Movie Night ( November 27)
Peer Recreational Group
Dates: October 10 - December 5th, 2024 (Biweekly)
Time: 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Modality: Kerr Hall Quad (image will be provided upon registration)
What to Bring: Comfortable workout clothes, shoes, a lock for your locker if possible, and a water bottle.
At the Peer Recreation Group, we’re dedicated to combining fitness with community. Whether you’re looking to break a sweat, learn new sports skills, or simply enjoy staying active with others, our group is here to help you thrive. Each week, participants can choose a sport or fitness class that suits their interests.
Regular physical activity is not only great for your body but also incredibly beneficial for your mind. Exercise has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression while boosting mood and overall mental well-being. Experience these positive effects firsthand—enhanced focus, better sleep, and a more positive outlook on life.
We’ll be focusing on building connections and exploring different fitness activities as a group low intensity . Each session will include a brief icebreaker, an overview of the day's activity, and an opportunity to connect. I will send a reminder email a day in advance .
To join this group, please register below. This group allows you to take care of both your physical and mental health while connecting with others and having fun.
Weekly Topics:
- Yin Yoga (RAC Studio 1)– October 10th
- Spin Sculpt Stretch (Rac Studio 2) – October 24th
- Facilitated Basketball (Rac 1 Gym) – November 7th
- Private Beginners Weights (Beginner Fitness Weight Room) – November 21st
- Soccer (KHW Lower Gym) – December 5th
Date/time: Wednesdays at 1:00 - 4:00 PM from September 25 to December 4 , 2024 (Bi-Weekly)
Modality: In-person drop in group. New students are welcome at every session
Where: DCC 7TH Floor
GRAD Art Hive is a collaboration with the Yeates School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies (YSGPS) (opens in new window) and Health Promotion Programs (opens in new window) at TMU. GRAD Art Hive is a space just for graduate students and postdocs to recharge, rest and reflect with their peers through creative activities. Peer support facilitators will be on hand to facilitate open dialogue on graduate wellbeing and managing the unique stressors faced by the graduate community.
Session 1: Tote bag painting
Session 2: Acrylic Canvas Pouring
Session 3: Pumpkin Painting
Session 4: Stamp printing
Session 5: Erasure poetry
Session 6: Holiday card making
Earn Your Active Peer Badge! 🌟
Are you looking for ways to take care of your mental health, build supportive connections, and engage in a positive community? The Active Peer Badge is for YOU! In partnership with TMU Leadership
By participating in a variety of peer support groups at TMU—such as Learning Helpful Habits, Empowerment in Self Care, Campus Connection Corner, Queer Community Circle, or Black-Identifying Peer Support Group—you can earn this badge while taking care of your personal well-being.
💬 What’s in it for you?
- Safe Spaces to de-stress, share, and feel heard.
- New Friends & Community—connect with others who understand and support you.
- Self-Care & Growth—learn practical tips for mental wellness and self-care.
- Resume Booster—showcase your proactive engagement in mental health and community-building efforts.
✨ How to Earn It:
Attend at least 50% of the sessions in a peer group series. You’ll walk away with new skills, connections, and an Active Peer Badge to recognize your dedication to personal and community wellbeing!
Join us and get involved! This badge is your chance to grow, connect, and make a difference for both yourself and your community.
Ready to get started?
Sign up for one of our peer support groups and begin your journey!
Badges will be distributed to students who qualify by the end of the Winter Semester 2025
Our Peer Support Team:
Hello, I'm Alvin Singh (he/him), Peer Support Specialist at TMU. I began my journey by earning an Honours Psychology degree at York University and later completed an Addictions and Mental Health certificate program at Humber College. I am very excited to contribute to the growth of future TMU students. My experience from my peer work at CMHA, where I assisted individuals with substance issues, conducted psychoeducation sessions, soccer activity group for clients and facilitated groups on depression ,anxiety and recovery.
With over a year as a peer support worker at CMHA, I've come to appreciate the collaborative nature of peer support—sharing experiences and learning together. I prioritize empathy, creating a supportive and judgment-free environment where students feel understood. Having experienced the challenges of being a student, with struggles in grades, anxiety, and low self-esteem, I understand the importance of finding one's path. Psychology and mental health became my beacon of hope, reigniting my passion and guiding me to where I am today. I aspire to provide that same hope to TMU students.
In my personal life, you can find me enjoying new movies weekly. I’m a big fan of comic book characters from Marvel and DC. I am also a passionate Toronto sports fan, specifically supporting the Leafs and Blue Jays.I recognize that each student's journey is unique. If you're seeking someone who is approachable, empathetic, and dedicated to your well-being, I'm here for you.
My name is Malaika (she/her) and I am a Peer Support facilitator within TMU's Health Promotion Programs. I'm currently completing my bachelors of social work at TMU and will be providing peer support to current TMU students through my role.
Available for: Groups
My name is Shereny (she/her) and I am a Peer Support Facilitator within TMU’s Health Promotions Programs. I’m currently completing my Bachelor of Commerce in Business Management majoring in Global Management at TMU and will be providing peer support to current TMU students in my position.
Available for: Groups