Good Health and Wellbeing

This societal impact focuses on ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all ages.

Lakehead University recognizes that ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being at all ages is essential to sustainable development. Lakehead supports good health and well-being through the development of health human resources, by conducting extensive research and outreach related to health in the regions we serve, partnering with local, regional and national partners, and by reviewing and changing our own practices. 

Collaborations and Health Services

3.3.1 Current collaborations with health institutions

Does your university as a body have current collaborations with local or global health institutions to improve health and well-being outcomes?

Lakehead University actively collaborates with local, national and global health institutions to enhance health and well-being outcomes.  Our partnerships and joint initiatives encompass various areas of health research and practices. Examples of some current initiatives by Lakehead researchers include:

Improving the lives of persons living with dementia and their caregivers

Dr. Elaine Wiersma, Associate Professor in the Department of Health Sciences, leads the North West Dementia Working Group. Her research in self-management of dementia led to the development of the Dementia Café, a community space to share and inform dementia-related experiences, needs and challenges.  In 2023-24, the North West Dementia Working Group launched the Dementia Gardens: A Place to Grow, an outdoor space focused on native plant gardening for people living with dementia and their care partners. The initiative includes developing an outdoor day program and green care farm, where meaningful engagement, community connection, and environmental stewardship come together. In 2025, Dr. Wiersma was awarded with the King Charles III Coronation Medal for her outstanding contributions to this research and local collaborations to improve health outcomes for persons living with dementia.   More information on the project can be found here. 

Lakehead University Advances National Child Mental Health Trials Network

In 2023-2024, Dr. Aislin Mushquash, Associate Professor in the Department of Psychology, led the Canadian Network for Child and Youth Mental Health Trials (CYMH Trials Network) to transform how youth mental health clinical trials are conducted in Canada. The CYMH Trials Network strengthened Lakehead's national impact on youth mental health.  This network for children and youth mental health trials will provide critical infrastructure for researchers, trainees, and community partners to develop high-quality studies that reflect real-world complexities, recruit diverse and representative populations, and conduct multi-centre trials across the country.  More information on this project can be found here.

Imaging Techniques Enhancing Disease Detection

Dr. Mitchell Albert, Professor in the Department of Chemistry at Lakehead University, has developed new imaging techniques that provide clearer pictures of lung function and blood flow in the brain.  Through improved MRI imaging this work has led to better personalized medicine and diagnostics for conditions. In 2023-24, Dr. Albert and his team at the Hyperpolarized Noble Gas MRI Laboratory continue to advance the technology through global collaborations and research studies to improve the field of hyperpolarized and fluorinated gas magnetic resonance imaging.   More information on this project can be found here.

3.3.2 Health outreach programmes

Does your university as a body deliver outreach programmes and projects in the local community (which can include student volunteering programmes) to improve or promote health & wellbeing including hygiene, nutrition, family planning, sports, exercise, aging well, and other health and wellbeing related topics?

Lakehead University is deeply committed to delivering outreach programs and projects in the local communities we serve.  These initiatives encompass a wide range of topics, including improving and promoting health and well-being, hygiene, nutrition, sports and youth exercise.   Our programs include:

1. ActiveU: ActiveU is a comprehensive recreational multi-sport and activity camp designed for children in grades 1-6. The program integrates various sports, health, and well-being components, and maintains a strict no-bullying policy. We warmly welcome children from local and regional communities, including those facing socio-economic barriers, as well as newcomers and refugees, fostering an inclusive camp environment. 
2. ActiveU Electives:  In collaboration with local school boards, ActiveU Electives provide physical games and activities for students in grades 1 through 8.  These sessions are organized by Varsity Athletics and ActiveU staff and offer teachers valuable resources for promoting physical fitness and well-being in the classroom.  
3. Sports-Specific Camps: Lakehead offers sports-specific camps led by varsity coaches and student-athletes.  These camps are designed to accommodate children with varying skill levels and abilities.  The programs run year-round and are open to children and youth aged 3 to 18, providing fun and educational experiences.  
4. Achievement Program: Through partnerships with local and regional school boards, Lakehead University’s Achievement Program addresses barriers faced by elementary school students from disadvantaged socioeconomic backgrounds.  In partnership with ActiveU, Achievement Program students are eligible to register for 1 free week of summer camp. The camp day includes recreational, hands-on educational activities and cultural programming for kids in grades 4 – 8. Snacks, lunch, and transportation from home schools are all provided at no cost. Lakehead University is committed to enhancing community health and expanding nutrition and wellness education through the Achievement Program. By actively participating in the Achievement Program until their final year of high school, students become eligible for financial assistance.  This financial support covers the costs associated with their first year of university tuition in any undergraduate program, removing one of the significant financial obstacles that often hinder their access to higher education. The program extends beyond financial aid, offering mentorship, guidance, and resources to empower students and foster their academic success.  
5. Lakehead University Psychology Clinic: The clinic provides high-quality psychological services in-person and virtually throughout Northwestern Ontario. The clinic’s services include individual, couples, and group-based psychotherapy, psychodiagnostic assessments, psychoeducational/ learning assessments and workshops. The Lakehead University Psychology Clinic is able to offer those providing health and social services no-cost individual and group-based psychological support.
6. Compass North: Compass North is an initiative led by students, aimed at addressing the unmet health needs of underserved populations in Thunder Bay.  This student-led clinic provides essential health services and conducts research in collaboration with registered health professionals from Lakehead University, NOSM University and community organizations. Their projects include various health promotion workshops on a wide range of topics, including mental health, diabetes management, healthy eating and oral health.  These workshops aim to empower individuals with valuable knowledge and skills to improve their overall well-being.  

3.3.3 Shared sports facilities

Does your university as a body share sports facilities with the local community, for instance with local schools or with the general public?

Lakehead University shares its sports facilities with the local community, including local schools and the general public. Both the Thunder Bay and Orillia campuses provide access to a variety of athletic spaces and programs, ensuring that community members can benefit from the university’s resources.

Lakehead University's Thunder Bay campus features the C.J. Sanders Fieldhouse (15,000 sq ft), Wolf Den (30,000 sq ft) and the Hangar (50,000 sq ft) facilities which include: gymnasium, fitness centre, swimming pool, cardio room, outdoor sports fields, beach volleyball courts, running track, artificial turf, climbing room, weight training, aerobic and cardio areas.  Outdoor facilities such as the volleyball courts and soccer field are available to the public on a first-come, first-serve basis at no charge. The public can also purchase a membership or a day pass to access these facilities using the link found here. 

The university offers a number of paid and free programs for children and youth, including sports day camps, birthday events, and school outreach programs such as "ActiveU" which provides children and youth in the community access to the sports facilities on campus to play sports and receive coaching and leadership skills.

Lakehead Orillia Students are eligible for a “Fun Pass” that allows access to the Orillia Recreation Centre. Students have access to the Fitness Centre, drop-in recreational programs, and access to all facility amenities, including an indoor walking/jogging track, gymnasium & aquatic centre.  

3.3.4 Sexual and reproductive health care services for students

Does your university as a body provide students access to sexual and reproductive health-care services including information and education services?

Lakehead University provides free medical health services to students through its Student Health and Wellness Centre including sexual health services such as sexual health, education, sexually transmitted infection testing, birth control, pregnancy testing and male health. These services are fully available to all students throughout the year. The Sexual Wellness page offers publicly accessible information and resources to promote education and sexual well-being.

In addition to healthcare services, Lakehead University’s Office of Human Rights and Equity provides advocacy for students concerning the protection of human rights, including issues related to sexual violence and reproductive information. 

The Lakehead University Psychology Clinic provides high-quality psychological services in-person and virtually throughout Northwestern Ontario. The Clinic is committed to creating a safe and supportive environment for clients of different age, race, ethnicity, ability, gender, religion, culture and sexual orientation. We strive to provide culturally-competent care that is supported by research evidence and adapted to meet the needs of the client.

3.3.5 Mental health support for students

Does your university as a body provide students with access to mental health support?

Lakehead University is committed to supporting the mental health of its students and staff through a holistic health and well-being approach.  Lakehead University’s Wellness Strategy acknowledges that prioritizing health and wellness interventions is key to promoting success within the classroom and workplace. 

Students enrolled at Lakehead University benefit from the services provided by the Student Health and Wellness office, where they can access a wide array of services such as counselling, health services and wellness programs, all available at no cost to students.

To arrange counselling and health services, students in Orillia can submit a request online via the mySuccess portal. In Thunder Bay, first-time clients complete an intake form before booking their initial appointment, and both medical and counselling appointments can be scheduled via phone or in person. The university also offers “same day/next day” counselling appointment slots released every morning for more immediate support.  Additional supports are available, including after-hours crisis lines, supports for survivors of sexual assault, and culturally‐appropriate resources (such as Indigenous students’ services). 

The Student Health and Wellness office actively engages in Health Promotion Services, which focuses on education, promotion and advocacy to support student health and academic success.  Through collaboration with students, faculty, and community agencies, health promotion initiatives offered include:

• Health education

• Physical activity

• Nutrition promotion

• Mental health and peer support

• Immunization

• Sexual Health

• Wellness programs

To support Indigenous students and promote cross-cultural understanding among students and staff, the Office of Indigenous Initiatives also coordinates an “Elder in Residence” program which invites an Indigenous elder or knowledge keeper to provide traditional knowledge, cultural guidance, cultural teachings and counselling to students and staff. All mental health services, workshops, and peer support programs described were active during the 2023–24 academic year.

In 2025, Lakehead University established the Student Mental Health Policy, which affirms the institution’s commitment to fostering a healthy, supportive, and inclusive environment where students can thrive academically and personally. The policy outlines a whole-campus approach to mental health, emphasizing prevention, early intervention, accessible services, and collaboration across the university community and with external partners. It also recognizes the unique needs of Indigenous students and incorporates culturally informed supports.

The Lakehead University Psychology Clinic provides high-quality psychological services in-person and virtually throughout Northwestern Ontario. The Clinic is committed to creating a safe and supportive environment for clients of different age, race, ethnicity, ability, gender, religion, culture and sexual orientation. We strive to provide culturally-competent care that is supported by research evidence and adapted to meet the needs of the client.

3.3.6 Smoke-free policy

Does your university as a body have a ‘smoke-free’ policy?    

Lakehead University is committed to fostering a healthy, safe, and respectful environment for all students, staff, and visitors. During the 2023–24 academic year, the university continued its commitment to promoting a cleaner, smoke-free environment through several key policies.  These policies are  designed to:ed to:

• Reduce exposure to second-hand smoke

• Encourage healthy campus lifestyles

• Comply with public health legislation

Lakehead University is dedicated to creating a healthy, safe and cleaner environment for all individuals on campus and has established a Smoking on Premises Policy, last reviewed in 2020. Lakehead University is committed to providing resources for smoking cessation programs to support students, faculty, and staff in their efforts to quit smoking.  

In the Smoking on Premises Policy, the word “smoking” includes the following: smoking or holding lighted tobacco, and use of an electronic cigarette or other vaping devices.

Lakehead University has the following procedures available to enforce the Smoking on Premises Policy:

• Appropriate no-smoking signage will be placed at entrances to buildings and at other locations as deemed necessary. 

• The designated smoking areas in the parking lots will be delineated by concrete barriers where appropriate and will be supplied with appropriate disposal receptacles. These receptacles must be used in order to keep the grounds litter free and safe.

• Student Health and Wellness will provide resource materials to students, faculty and staff in order to support their efforts in smoking cessation. Faculty and staff members may contact the Human Resources Department for information on smoking cessation products/initiatives associated with the University's employee benefit programs.

• The selling of tobacco, e-cigarette, or vaping products on campus is prohibited.

In addition to the Smoking on Premises Policy, Lakehead University has established a Recreational Cannabis on Premises Policy, last reviewed in 2022. No cultivation of cannabis is permitted anywhere on Lakehead University property. Recreational smoking or vaping of cannabis is not permitted anywhere on Lakehead University property.

The following provisions apply to recreational use and consumption of cannabis other than by smoking or vaping:

• Cannabis use is not allowed in common areas of residences.

• Non-smoking, non-vaping use is allowed in residence rooms for those of legal age, following all laws.

• Residents must follow and stay informed about any additional University cannabis rules.

However, it is important to note that Lakehead University is not entirely a smoke-free campus.  The university does allow for the on-campus use of burning the four sacred medicines as part of Indigenous spiritual practices for personal use or during cultural and educational events.  These accommodations are outlined in the Indigenous Cultural Ceremonies Policy, last reviewed in 2024. 

Lakehead University permits the on-campus use of burning any or all of the four sacred medicines (tobacco, cedar, sage, and sweetgrass) in connection with Indigenous spiritual practices for personal use or at cultural and educational events, meetings and relevant classroom presentations. The University permits the burning of these medicines for personal use and during cultural or educational events, and provides designated spaces and procedures to support these ceremonies respectfully and safely. Other medicines may be permitted with prior approval from the Vice-Provost (Indigenous Initiatives).

• Sacred medicines may be used on campus for personal, educational, and ceremonial purposes.

• Participation is voluntary; individuals may decline or leave at any time.

• Two days’ notice is required before burning sacred medicines, unless in designated areas or emergencies.

• The lead participant is responsible for safe and appropriate use of medicines.

• Designated spaces include the Aboriginal Culture Support Services and select locations across campus; signage indicates permitted use.

• Outdoor areas like the sweat lodge and tipi site may be used without prior notice.

Lakehead University is dedicated to creating a healthy, safe and cleaner environment for all individuals on campus and has established a Smoking on Premises Policy and Recreational Cannabis on Premises Policy to prevent exposure to second-hand smoke.

Through these policies, Lakehead University commits to providing resources for smoking cessation programs to support students, faculty and staff in their efforts to quit smoking. 

However, it is important to note that Lakehead University is not entirely a smoke-free campus.  The university does allow for the on-campus use of burning the four sacred medicines as part of Indigenous spiritual practices for personal use or during cultural and educational events.  This accommodation is outlined in the Indigenous and Aboriginal Cultural Ceremonies Policy. 

Specifically, Lakehead University supports Indigenous cultural ceremonies on campus that involve the use of the four sacred medicines, including but not limited to personal use, one-on-one counselling sessions, opening/closing prayers for events, smudging, feasts, sacred circle gatherings, sacred fires, pipe ceremonies, pow wows, drumming and singing.

Therefore, while Lakehead University promotes a smoke-free environment for general tobacco and cannabis use, it recognizes and respects the cultural significance of the four sacred medicines in Indigenous practices and provides accommodation and protocol for their ceremonial use on campus.    

3.3.7 Mental health support for staff

Does your university as a body provide staff with access to mental health support? 

Lakehead University is committed to supporting the mental health of its staff and students through a holistic health and well-being approach.  Lakehead University’s Wellness Strategy acknowledges that prioritizing health and wellness interventions is key to promoting success within the workplace and classroom.  Ongoing implementation of the plan including mental health and wellness initiatives for employees can be found here.

Faculty and staff at the university have access to the free Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP), which includes 24/7 telephone support for mental health concerns. 

Lakehead University also offers a comprehensive benefits package for all employees which includes mental health supports.  

To support Indigenous staff and students and promote cross-cultural understanding, the Office of Indigenous Initiatives also coordinates an “Elder in Residence” program which invites an Indigenous elder or knowledge keeper to provide traditional knowledge, cultural guidance, cultural teachings and counselling to staff and students. All staff mental health supports, including EFAP services, wellness workshops, and the Elder in Residence program, were available and actively used during the 2023–24 academic year.