Student Wellness Resource Guide

Staying active means engaging in regular physical activity, such as aerobic exercises (running, swimming, cycling), strength training (lifting weights, body-weight exercises), flexibility exercises (yoga, stretching), and balance exercises (tai chi, pilates). Regular physical activity improves cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles and bones, enhances flexibility, and boosts overall energy levels.

 

Corpus Christi College

Staying active is an important part of student well-being. Corpus students have access to a wide range of recreational opportunities through UBC, provided they are enrolled and have paid the Athletics & Recreation fee.

• Eligible for free access to many UBC clubs, drop-in sports, and fitness facilities.
• Can participate in intramural activities and events, though not in competitive leagues.
• For help accessing resources or confirming eligibility, contact the Student Resource Centre ([email protected]) or Campus Life & Ministry ([email protected]).

 

UBC

UBC Recreation promotes student well-being through a variety of programs and inclusive facilities. There’s something for everyone—from casual exercisers to athletes.

• Drop-in sports like volleyball, basketball, and badminton.
• Access to the UBC Aquatic Centre and Doug Mitchell Skating Centre.
• ARC and BirdCoop fitness centres, plus fitness classes.
• Intramurals, personal training, and Get Moving wellness programs.

AMS Sports Clubs: Corpus students may join clubs like the Boxing Club, Triathlon Club, and more via the UBC AMS Clubs Directory.

 

External Resources

The city of Vancouver also offers many affordable options for staying active outside of campus.

• Vancouver Community Centres: Offer fitness classes, gyms, swimming pools, and skating rinks. Students can access these services through low-cost drop-in fees or monthly passes. For detailed information on locations, schedules, and specific amenities, visit the City of Vancouver’s Fitness Centers page.
• YMCA BC: Provides memberships, financial aid, and access to fitness facilities like Robert Lee YMCA. Students can get memberships or trial passes by visiting the YMCA BC – Health, Fitness and Aquatics Program.
• HealthLink BC – Physical Activity: Offers guidance and support for building a personalized physical activity routine.

Eating well means fueling your body with balanced meals This involves consuming a variety of foods that provide adequate vitamins, minerals, protein, carbohydrates, fats, and fiber. Emphasizing whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats are key.

 

Corpus Christi College

The Corpus Community Pantry is a student-focused food resource designed to support those experiencing food insecurity. It offers a variety of non-perishable food items and essential hygiene products. As a community-driven initiative, it is sustained through generous donations from faculty, staff, and students. Previously known as the Food Bank, the pantry has been re-launched to create a more accessible and welcoming space for students in need.

• Offers non-perishable food items and hygiene products.
• Located near Room 103. Open Tuesday to Thursday, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM.
• Donations can be dropped off at bins around campus (SRC, Plato’s Cave, Staff/Faculty Kitchen).
• Contact: [email protected] or [email protected].

 

UBC

UBC offers multiple food security resources and healthy dining options.

• AMS Food Bank (Life Building, Room 0023): Provides non-perishable items, produce, and hygiene products. Open Mondays and Thursdays, 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM. No proof of need required.
• UBC Food Services: Operates dining halls, cafés, food trucks, and more.
• UBC Health Topics – Food and Nutrition: Covers cooking, meal planning, and wellness-related food guidance.
• AMS Food Bank Resources: Offers links to additional services on and off campus.

 

External Resources

There are many community services to support food security in the wider Vancouver area.

• Greater Vancouver Food Bank (GVFB): Serves Vancouver, Burnaby, New West, and North Shore with fresh and non-perishable items. Registration required.
• Food Banks BC: Provincial network that helps locate nearby food banks.
• City of Vancouver: Hosts a map for free/low-cost meals and clothing resources.
• BC Ministry of Health: Offers tips on healthy eating and meal preparation on a budget.

Managing your health involves regular medical check-ups, preventative care, and adopting habits that reduce the risk of illness and injury. It includes managing stress, getting sufficient sleep, practicing good hygiene, and avoiding harmful behaviors like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

 

Corpus Christi College

Maintaining your health during your studies is critical. Corpus students must be covered under both BC’s Medical Services Plan (MSP) and the AMS/GSS Health and Dental Plan (or equivalent).

• MSP covers basic healthcare; AMS/GSS covers extended services (e.g., prescriptions, dental, vision).
• For insurance or coverage questions, contact Enrolment Services: [email protected].
• Naloxone kits for emergency overdose response are available at the front desk.

 

Medical Insurance: MSP + AMS/GSS Health and Dental Plan

For the duration of your studies at Corpus Christi College, all students (domestic and international) are required to have:

1. Basic health insurance (MSP, or equivalent provincial health insurance)
2. Extended health insurance (AMS/GSS Health and Dental Plan or equivalent extended health insurance)

 

BC MSP Program

• The British Columbia Medical Services Plan (BC MSP) is a mandatory public health insurance plan for everyone who lives in BC for 6 months or longer (except students with existing coverage from another Canadian province or territory).
• The plan covers the cost of basic medical care within Canada, including doctor visits, hospital visits, and medical tests.
• Study permit holders are charged a $75 healthcare coverage fee per month, while other residents of BC will have access to the provincial government health insurance free of charge.
• Check out UBC’s webpage on how to apply for BC MSP. If you are an international student, follow this MSP application tutorial. The BC Government MSP website will have the most up-to-date information.
• MSP for Indigenous Students: The First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) covers the basic BC Medical Services Plan (MSP) and other extended health insurance coverage for Indigenous students. Learn more about their eligibility and enrolment details here.

 

AMS/GSS Health and Dental Plan

• As members of the UBC AMS, Corpus students are automatically enrolled in the AMS/GSS Health and Dental Plan with extended health and dental coverage. The plan is specifically designed to cover expenses not included in basic medical coverage: prescription drugs, vision care, dental care, travel health insurance and more.
• You can request to opt out of the AMS/GSS Health and Dental Plan if you have a separate extended health insurance plan which is equivalent to the coverage provided by the AMS/GSS Health and Dental Plan. The BC MSP coverage alone is NOT an equivalent the AMS/GSS Health and Dental Plan.
• Opting out can only be done during the “change of coverage” period at the beginning of each term. Opt out refunds are controlled by the Health and Dental Plan offices at UBC. Speak to Enrolment Services for more information by emailing [email protected]

 

UBC

UBC Student Health Service (SHS) is a medical clinic providing primary care and specialty services for UBC students (including affiliate students) for their physical and mental health needs. SHS appointments are available to students within British Columbia (BC), by phone, virtually, and in-person.

Clinics:

• There are two clinics operated by SHS on the UBC Vancouver campus
• Koerner Pavilion clinic
  • Location: UBC Hospital, Room S267l, 2211 Wesbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 2B5
  • Contact: (604) 822-7011
• Orchard Commons clinic
  • Orchard Commons, Room 1030, 6363 Agronomy Road, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4
  • Contact: (604) 827-0883
  • Book An Appointment
• Patients are accepted by appointment only at both locations. Make an appointment through their Electronic Medical Record System
• For nursing (including immunization reviews), medical specialists, psychiatry and acupuncture procedures or urgent concerns, please call SHS at (604) 822-7011 (Koerner Pavilion) or (604) 827-0883 (Orchard Commons)
• Find other walk-in clinics off-campus using Medimap

Nurses on Campus:

• Registered nurses are available at weekly booths across the UBC campus to answer your questions about any concerns related to physical, mental, emotional, or social wellbeing.
• Services are free, confidential, and you can drop by with no appointment needed.
• Find location and schedule here

Antigen Therapy for Allergies

• Antigen therapy is a preventive treatment for allergic reactions that can help your immune system build up a tolerance for a certain allergen. The treatment involves taking gradually increasing doses of the substance you’re allergic to.
• Learn more about how to access the treatment here

• Student Health Service offers general medical care, mental health support, prescriptions, vaccines, and referrals.
  • Koerner Pavilion (Room S267): Call 604-822-7011.
  • Orchard Commons (Room 1030): Call 604-827-0883.
• Nurses on Campus: Free, confidential consultations at weekly drop-in booths.
• UBC Health Topics: Covers flu and cold care, navigating health systems, and pharmacy services.

 

External Resources

In addition to campus resources, the BC health system offers 24/7 access to care and information.

Health advice (24/7)

• Call 811 Healthlink BC
• Find health information and services, or be connected with registered nurses, dietitians, qualified exercise professional, or a pharmacist.

 

Visit your family doctor or a walk-in clinic

• For health concerns, including referrals and prescription renewals, it’s best to first call your primary care provider (family doctor or nurse practitioner) or visit a walk-in clinic. Your MSP insurance will cover a basic doctor’s visit.
• Medimap – Walk-in Clinics Finder
• Find a Family Doctor – BCCFP
• Register with HealthLinkBC to get a family doctor

 

Pharmacies

• Pharmacists are now able to assess certain minor ailments, prescribe contraception, and renew prescriptions.
• Use the self-assessment checklist to see if your symptoms match one of the minor ailments (e.g., UTIs, allergies, pink eye, skin rash, etc.).
• You can book an appointment or visit a pharmacy for an assessment. ​
• Learn more about Pharmacy Services in BC

 

Urgent Care

• Visit urgent care for medical issues that need prompt attention but are not life-threatening, such as high fever, sprains and strains, cuts, wounds, or skin conditions, infections, asthma attacks, nausea, minor allergic reactions, etc.
• Find an urgent care centre near you

 

Emergency Department

• For life-threatening illnesses or injuries, call 911 or go the Emergency Department to be assessed and treated immediately. This includes suspected stroke or heart attack, poisoning or overdose, major trauma, head injury with loss of consciousness, etc.
• For crisis or suicide, call 1 (800) 784-2433.

 

Others

• For more on and off campus resources and health and wellbeing, visit UBC Student Services – Health and Wellbeing
• For general information, guide, and resources on flu and colds, visit UBC Health Topics – Flu and Colds
• Learn more about pharmacy services and prescriptions, or search for your local pharmacy with the Pharmacy Finder.
• Learn more about available healthcare services and resources in the Navigating Your Health and Wellbeing at UBC and Beyond Canvas course, offered by the UBC Wellness Centre.

Substance use health focuses on informed and responsible decision-making regarding alcohol and drugs. It involves harm reduction, recognizing risks, and seeking support when needed. A balanced approach to substance use promotes safety, reduces potential harm, and supports mental and physical health.

Overdose Response

Recognizing the signs:

• Not moving and can’t be woken up, or unresponsive
• Breathing is slow or stopped
• Choking, gurgling or snoring sounds
• Lips and nails may be a blue or ashy color
• Skin is cold and clammy
• Pupils are tiny

 

Responding to an overdose:

If someone is experiencing a known or suspected overdose, there is no time to waste.

• Immediately call 9-1-1
• Give Naloxone
  – available at the front desk of Corpus Christi College
  – available at all AED locations, public buildings, and residences on UBC campus
• Call UBC Campus Security: 604-822-2222

Learn more about overdose signs and response at BC Government – Overdose Prevention and Response

Corpus Christi College
Corpus recognizes the importance of harm reduction in promoting student safety.

• Naloxone kits are available at the front desk.
• Students are encouraged to familiarize themselves with overdose signs and emergency response steps (call 911, administer Naloxone, alert UBC Campus Security at 604-822-2222).

 

UBC

UBC Health Topics 

UBC Student Services website provides two resources page with detailed information on substance use health.

The substance use health and harm reduction page provides comprehensive information on substance use health and lists available resources on harm reduction such as:

• Harm reduction strategies and supplies (ex. naloxone kits; fentanyl test strips; epinephrine autoinjectors; etc.)
• Drug checking services
• SAVE lives: Harm Reduction and Naloxone Training Canvas course
• Workshops from UBC Wellness Center and AMS Peer Support

The alcohol, cannabis, and nicotine page focuses on these three substances and provides information on their effects, risks, harm reduction strategies, policies in Canada and at UBC, and resources for support.

• The legal drinking age for alcohol in British Columbia is 19. Read about UBC’s alcohol policy and Canada’s Guidelines on Alcohol and Health.
• Familiarize yourself with British Columbian laws and UBC’s policy around cannabis use on campus.
• Familiarize yourself with British Columbian laws and UBC’s policy around vaping and smoking on campus.

 

UBC AMS Harm Reduction Resources List & Map

The UBC Harm Reduction Resource List and Map shows where you can pick up harm reduction supplies at UBC and Greater Vancouver (such as naloxone kits and fentanyl strips), places where you can get your substances tested, and other services that offer injection sites, naloxone and other harm reduction training, mental health support, etc.

UBC Student Recovery Community

The UBC Student Recovery Community is a safe, welcoming, and inclusive space for students who are in recovery, or curious to learn about their relationship with alcohol, drugs, and/or addictive behaviours, including disordered eating, gaming, gambling, pornography, and more.

Email [email protected] to set up an initial one-on-one visit or join peer support meetings. Visit the SRC Instagram page for meeting times and room locations or Zoom links.

UBC AMS Peer Support

AMS peer support is a free, confidential service for UBC students (including affiliate students) looking for someone to talk to. Students can get one-on-one peer support, naloxone training for individuals and groups, fentanyl test strips, peer support group sessions, and workshops on mental health and harm reduction.

Book a support session here, or email them at [email protected].

 

External Resources

Provincial and regional services provide broad access to harm reduction and crisis care.

Vancouver General Hospital – Access and Assessment Centre

The Access and Assessment Center (AAC) at Vancouver General Hospital (VGH) is a central point for Vancouver residents aged 17 and older to access emergency or non-emergency mental health and substance use services. Their services can be provided by phone, in the office, virtually or by outreach, including:

• Mental Health and Substance Use (MHSU) assessments.
• Referral to Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) MHSU services.
• Information and support to access VCH Addictions Services.
• Admissions to Vancouver General Hospital (VGH) inpatient psychiatry.
• Crisis intervention and support.

 

Call or walk in for intake:

• Contact: 604-675-3700
• Location: Joseph & Rosalie Segal Family Health Centre 803 West 12th Avenue, Level 1

 

Toward the Heart – BCCDC Harm Reduction Services

BCCDC’s Toward the Heart initiative provides harm reduction services across British Columbia, focusing on overdose prevention, safer substance use, and access to life-saving resources. The program aims to reduce stigma and support people who use substances with education, supplies, and training. Their key services include:

• Harm reduction supplies (e.g., safer smoking and injection supplies)
• Overdose education, training, and supplies (ex. Naloxone training, Take Home Naloxone kit)
• Supervised Consumption and Overdose Prevention Services
• Education and training resources for overdose response and harm reduction

 

For more information, health tools, and on Alcohol and Drug Use, visit HealthLink BC – Alcohol and Drug Use.

Sexual health is about making informed and responsible choices regarding relationships, contraception, and disease prevention. It includes understanding consent, practicing safer sex, and maintaining open communication about boundaries and needs. Prioritizing sexual health leads to safer relationships, reduced risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and overall well-being.

Corpus Christi College

Corpus students can access sexual health resources through UBC or community providers. No on-campus medical sexual health services are currently offered. Students, staff, and faculty who experience sexual assault on campus can refer to the Sexual Assault and Misconduct Policy.

The Sexual Assault and Misconduct Policy covers topics including policy-related definitions, College principles, the Sexual Violence Response Committee, disclosures and reports, investigation procedures, corrective action, sanctions and discipline, as well as confidentiality and privacy.

 

UBC

UBC supports student sexual health and safety through education, healthcare, and crisis response.

UBC Health Topics

The UBC Sex and Sexual Health resource page provides trusted information to help students make informed decisions about sexual health.

UBC AMS Sexual Assault Support Center

The AMS Sexual Assault Support Center (SASC) provides education, confidential support, advocacy, and empowerment for people of all genders who are survivors of sexualized violence, as well as their friends and family. We serve UBC students, staff, faculty, and people with a connection to the UBC campus through various resources and services. Their key services includes:

• Crisis & emotional support
• Advocacy & accompaniment
• Safety planning
• Support groups
• Education & outreach
• Referrals & resources
• Harm reduction

How to Access

• Location: Room 3130, UBC AMS Student Nest
• Contact: 604-827-5180 (phone), [email protected] (email), 604-729-5476 (Signal App)
• See the full contact list here.

 

UBC Sexual Violence Prevention and Response Office (SVPRO)

The UBC Sexual Violence Prevention and Response Office (SVPRO) is a confidential and survivor-centered resource for anyone in the UBC community (including affiliate colleges) who has been impacted by any form of sexual or gender-based violence, harassment, or harm, regardless of where and when it occurred. Open to all genders and sexualities, SVPRO aims to be a safer place for all by respecting each person’s unique and multiple identities and experiences. Learn more

Seeking support from SVPRO is not the same as making a formal report to the College. SVPRO cannot receive reports or conduct investigations. Information shared with us is confidential and cannot be shared with anyone else without express permission. The key services include:

• One-on-one support sessions
• Safety planning
• Help with academic concessions and workplace support
• Emergency housing and funding
• Accompaniment to police, hospital, and UBC Investigations Office
• Referrals and resources

How to Access

• Location: Room 3130, UBC AMS Student Nest
• Contact: 604-822-1588; [email protected]
• Book an appointment through email: [email protected]

 

External Resources

Access community services for testing, care, and emergency support.

Sexual Assault Services in Vancouver

Sexual Assault Services (SAS) in Vancouver provide confidential, gender-inclusive health care for individuals aged 13 and older who have experienced sexual assault. With your consent, the specialized sexual assault services team:

• Provide medical care
• Provide sensitive and caring sexual assault examinations
• Collect and store evidence
• Help with the reporting process, if you choose to report

Those assaulted within seven days can access specialized care at designated emergency departments, while those assaulted earlier can seek support through various healthcare providers. Services are free, accessible regardless of residency status, and offer Indigenous patient navigators and translation support.

For more details and where to find this service, visit Vancouver Coastal Health – Sexual Assault Services

A basic visit and/or education would be included in your MSP coverage but for certain tests or products, you may need to pay. Find a Clinic here.

Caring for your mental health is just as important as staying physically healthy. Mental wellness includes managing stress, maintaining healthy relationships, and seeking support when you’re overwhelmed, anxious, or going through difficult times. Resources and services are available to support students in building resilience, practicing self-advocacy, and achieving a balanced, healthy lifestyle.

 

Corpus Christi College

Corpus supports student wellness through personalized support, workshops, and community events.

• The Student Resource Centre (SRC) and Campus Life & Ministry (CLM) offer wellness programming and academic accommodations.
• Students are encouraged to form or join mental health-focused student clubs.
• Contact: [email protected] | [email protected] 

 

UBC

UBC AMS Peer Support

AMS peer support is a free, confidential service for UBC students (including affiliate students) looking for someone to talk to. Book a support session here, or email them at [email protected].

Indigenous Mental Health and Wellbeing Program
Indigenous Program supports Indigenous UBC students through culturally informed wellness plans, mentoring, and connections to traditional practices and community resources.

• Drop-in available at Brock Hall
• Complete the support form: Indigenous Support Form

 

External Resources

Several mental health services are available to all students and residents in British Columbia.

Here2Talk (Province of BC)
Here2Talk offers 24/7 free and confidential mental health counselling to all post-secondary students in B.C., accessible via phone, app, or web.

• Toll-free: 1-877-857-3397
• Direct: 604-642-5212
• Outside Canada: +1-604-642-5212

 

Crisis Centre BC
If you or someone you know is in crisis, Crisis Centre BC provides 24/7 support and online chat services.

• Online chat: crisiscentrechat.ca
• Phone: 1-800-784-2433

 

Suicide Crisis Helpline
If you’re in immediate distress or concerned about someone else, call 988 for Canada’s 24/7 suicide crisis line.
Visit 988.ca

Access and Assessment Centre (AAC) – Vancouver General Hospital
AAC at VGH provides walk-in mental health support, crisis intervention, and referrals to specialized services.

• Phone: 604-675-3700
• Address: Vancouver General Hospital, Vancouver, BC

 

More Resources

• Wellness Together Canada – Self-guided tools and virtual mental health professionals
• MindHealth BC – Find the right mental health service for your needs
• Sanctuary Mental Health Ministries – Offers mental health resources and courses designed for Christian individuals, small groups, and church communities.