Safer Choices Week
What is Safer Choices Week?
February 3 to February 6, 2025
Previously known as Substances and TM(U), Safer Choices Week is all about creating a supportive and judgment-free space where you can explore important topics related to your wellbeing.
Through fun programs, engaging activities and meaningful conversations, we’ll dive into topics like making safer choices around substances (like drugs and alcohol), gambling and even food habits that might feel tricky to navigate
Our goal? To give you the tools, resources and info you need to feel confident making decisions that support your wellbeing. This is your space to learn, reflect and feel empowered—no pressure, just real talk. Come partake in one or many of our in-person or online events across the campus. We have a great line-up of activities for the entire week.
Events Agenda
Explore our events from the dates below and engage with us online through Instagram @tmustudentwellbeing (external link) .
Events |
Location and Time |
---|---|
Health Promotion Resource TableCurious About Substances and Addictive Behaviours? Not sure where to start? Stop by our table! We’ve got plenty of resources you can grab for yourself or a friend. Got questions about Safer Choices? Ask away! We’re here to help with answers or point you toward the right resources. Oh, and don’t forget to snag some swag while you’re here—we’d love to see you! |
Student Learning Centre- SLC Amphitheatre11 a.m. - 4 p.m. (In-Person) |
Foggy Goggles x Corn Hole ChallengeJoin us for an eye-opening and fun tabling event brought to you in collaboration with campus security! Step up and try your hand at corkball while wearing foggy goggles that simulate the effects of impairment.Experience firsthand how alcohol can affect your coordination and judgment—all in a safe, controlled and educational environment. |
Student Learning Centre - SLC Amphitheatre12 - 2 p.m. (In-Person) |
Dry MixologyAs part of this week’s Safer Choices Week programming, we’re inviting all students to stop by the SLC to pick up some fun drinks and new skills as we practice dry mixology. Come learn how to make fun non-alcoholic beverages you can enjoy with friends! Students will get the opportunity to enjoy the drinks they create. So, stop by the SLC Amphitheatre and let’s get mixing! |
Student Learning Centre - SLC Amphitheatre
|
Events |
Location, Time and Registration |
---|---|
Ditch Diet CultureRethink Diet Culture with Us - With diet culture everywhere, it can feel overwhelming to keep up with rigid standards—and it can take a toll on your mental health. Join us for a relaxed and educational session with our Registered Dietitian, where we’ll explore healthier alternatives and how to rethink your everyday habits. This is a casual, judgment-free space to connect and chat about diet culture and its impact on our community. Together, we’ll reflect, share and discover safer, healing resources to support your wellbeing. We’d love for you to join the conversation! |
Virtual 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (google form) Register for Ditch Diet Culture (external link, opens in new window) - Zoom link to attend will follow registration |
Consent & Sexual Health BingoJoin us for a fun, interactive and educational evening of Consent & Connection – a unique twist on bingo that blends learning and laughter! Explore important topics like healthy relationships, communication and sexual health while competing for awesome prizes. This program is designed to empower university students with knowledge, foster open conversations and promote consent as a cornerstone of every interaction. Whether you're here to win or to learn, everyone’s a champion in creating a culture of respect and understanding. Don’t miss this exciting and inclusive event! |
Student Learning Centre - SLC 4th floor Lounge1 - 2 p.m. (In-Person)
|
YMCA Sports Betting Awareness WorkshopOntario’s new regulated gambling market has opened up a world of sports betting opportunities and it’s changing the game for sports fans. From betting on live plays to exploring esports and daily fantasy sports, there’s a lot to unpack. This presentation breaks down the strategies behind predicting game outcomes (does knowing sports really help?), the explosion of betting content on social media and how all this media exposure influences our choices. We’ll also talk about the support services available for anyone needing a mental health check-in. Whether you're curious, cautious, or all-in, this session is for you! |
Student Learning Centre - SLC 4th Floor Lounge/SLC 4th Floor, Room/DDC 8th Floor2 - 3 p.m. (In-Person) |
Sugar Price is Right EventThink you know how much sugar is in your favourite snacks and drinks? Put your knowledge to the test with our Sugar Awareness Price is Right Game! Guess the sugar content in everyday items and see if you can come closest to the right answer without going over. Learn surprising facts about hidden sugars while having fun and winning cool prizes! |
Student Learning Centre - SLC 4th Floor, Room 4534 - 5:30 p.m. (In-Person)
|
Health Promotion Resource Fair
Location: Student Learning Centre - SLC Amphitheatre
Time: 12 - 4 p.m. (In-Person)
Join us for an interactive and educational event all about raising awareness of addictive behaviours and making safer choices! This is a great opportunity to learn, explore and connect with helpful resources.
You’ll have the chance to meet campus partners and external organizations who are dedicated to supporting you with valuable insights on topics like cannabis use, gambling and more. Check out informative booths, join in on fun activities and discover practical tips to make informed and healthy choices.
Whether you’re just curious or looking for support, this event is for every TMU student! Come out, learn something new and take away tools to help you live your healthiest, happiest life. Discover who will be there below:
- Student Integrated Health and Wellbeing (SHaW)
- Community Safety and Security
- Consent Comes First
- Recreation and Active Wellbeing
- Jack.org TMU Chapter (external link, opens in new window)
- DrinkSmart (external link, opens in new window) - DrinkSmart is an alcohol awareness & education program created for Ontario Post-Secondary Students-by-Students.
- CAMH: Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, STOP (external link, opens in new window) - The Smoking Treatment for Ontario Patients (STOP) Program is a province-wide initiative delivering smoking cessation treatment (up to 26 weeks of NRT) and counselling support to people who want to reduce/quit their tobacco use.
- Youth Gambling Awareness Program (external link, opens in new window) - The YMCA of Greater Toronto is a charity that ignites the potential in people, helping them grow, lead and give back to their communities.
- Naseeha (external link, opens in new window) - Empowering the Muslim Community with Compassionate, Culturally Sensitive Mental Health Support
- Good2Talk (external link, opens in new window)
- The Village Health Clinic (external link, opens in new window) - Dr. Jill Northrup, Naturopathic Doctor
- Sexual Assault and Domestic Care Centre at Women’s College (external link, opens in new window)
Event |
Time and Location |
---|---|
Naturopathic Approaches to Mental HealthJoin us for an insightful one-hour session led by Dr. Jill Northrup, where we will explore approaches to mental health, stress and mood disorders from a naturopathic perspective. Gain valuable knowledge and practical strategies to support your wellbeing in a holistic and natural way. |
Podium - POD 50B11 a.m. - 12 p.m. (In-Person) |
Safe Talk TrainingJoin us for Safe Talk Training, a program designed to teach you how to recognize the signs of someone struggling with thoughts of suicide and take meaningful steps to help. In this interactive session, you’ll learn:
Let’s work together to build a safer, more supportive community. Whether for a friend, a classmate, or a stranger, the skills you’ll gain could make all the difference. |
Centre for Urban Innovation - CUI 21912:30 - 4:30 p.m. (In-Person) (google form) Register for Safe Talk Training (external link, opens in new window) |
Meditation and YogaDiscover the transformative power of yoga tailored for healing in our meditation and yoga workshop. Designed to create a safe and supportive space, this workshop integrates mindfulness and gentle movements to empower individuals on their path to recovery. Led by a skilled instructor, this class offers valuable tools for managing stress, cravings and emotional well-being. We invite you to explore the mind-body connection in a nurturing environment. Whether you are new to yoga or a seasoned practitioner, this workshop aims to provide tools for self-care, resilience and healing. Brought to you by TMU Recreation and Student Health Integrated Health and Wellbeing. |
Recreation and Athletic Centre - RAC, Studio 23 - 4:30 p.m. (In-Person) (google form) Register for the Meditation and Yoga (external link, opens in new window) Spaces are limited and are booked on a first-come basis. |
Britt Harvey - Clinical Nurse Lead
Information about Nalaxone
Alvin Singh - Peer Support Specialist
How to support others struggling with substance use.