Supporting Student-Athletes Through Every Stage of Their Experience

Student-athletes face unique pressures while balancing the demands of academics, training, competition, injury recovery, and everyday life. The Student-Athlete Mental Health Pathway exists to ensure Golden Bears and Pandas student-athletes have access to compassionate, sport-informed mental health support within an environment that understands the realities of varsity athletics.

Mental health is an important part of the student-athlete experience, and creating safe, supportive pathways to care remains a priority within Varsity Athletics.

Integrated Student-Athlete Mental Health Support

Specialized Care Within the Varsity Environment

Through the Varsity Health Clinic, Golden Bears and Pandas student-athletes have access to Registered Psychologists within a sport-friendly environment designed specifically for varsity athletics.

The Student-Athlete Mental Health Pathway emphasizes timely access to support delivered by professionals who understand the unique demands student-athletes face throughout their university experience. Balancing academics, training, competition, injury recovery, and life beyond sport can present challenges that require specialized and compassionate care.

With mental health services integrated within Varsity Health & Performance, student-athletes are able to access support within a familiar and connected varsity environment alongside other healthcare and performance services. In addition to Registered Psychology services, student-athletes may also access other healthcare supports available through Varsity Health, including Family Doctors and Psychiatry services through referral pathways when appropriate.

Student-athletes also benefit from the broader network of support resources available across the University of Alberta community, further strengthening the overall system of care available throughout their student-athlete experience.

Thanks to Our Partners

Supporting Student-Athlete Mental Health

The continued growth of student-athlete mental health services is made possible through the generosity and support of valued community partners and donors.

Varsity Athletics is grateful for the support of the Maz Yukawa Foundation and the Students’ Union Legacy Fund, whose contributions continue to strengthen mental health resources and support opportunities for Golden Bears and Pandas student-athletes.

Their commitment helps ensure student-athletes have access to care, support, and services throughout every stage of their university experience.

A Commitment to Student-Athlete Support

The University of Alberta remains committed to building a student-athlete environment where student-athletes are supported both within and beyond sport. Through integrated systems of care, compassionate support, and continued investment in student-athlete services, the Student-Athlete Mental Health Pathway helps ensure

Golden Bears and Pandas student-athletes have access to the resources and support they need throughout their university sport experience.

SUPPORT STUDENT-ATHLETE MENTAL HEALTH

MAZ YUKAWA FOUNDATION PARTNERSHIP

U OF A LEGACY FUND