Get support from peers, take a break, hang out with friends, and play games at the Wellness Lounge.

Peer Wellness Support (In-person/Chat)

No matter where you are, chat with us using the chat box located in the right-hand corner of your screen. Our peer wellness helpers are ready to listen.

The chat function on this website (in the bottom right corner) allows you to chat with a peer who can help and provide support based on your needs. Your peers are available to chat seven days a week. They can answer questions and listen if you need to talk to someone. It’s a great way to get quick support and resources, but it does not replace a mental health session.

Please note: the Peer Wellness Chat is not a crisis chat. For crisis support, please click on the “immediate support” button

wellness character chatting
  • Is a fellow student who is trained to listen with empathy and without judgment
  • Engages in active listening skills to understand and validate an individual’s thoughts and feelings
  • Guides an individual to the services and resources they would like to receive
  • Cannot provide advice (medical or otherwise)
  • Cannot provide professional counselling/therapy or health care
health promotion volunteers

Feeling overwhelmed or just need someone to chat with? Every day, peer wellness helpers will be in the Wellness Lounge, ready to listen, hear your concerns, and chat with you. They are familiar with on and off campus resources related to mental health and wellness and will be able to direct you if you need help.

Wellness-focused activities aimed at helping you find balance will also take place in the Wellness Lounge on a recurring basis. These activities are all free; you can come every week or drop-in occasionally, as you need it. It is a safe space that is there for you to use and make your own.

Take five minutes to drop by.

Wellness Lounge Activity

Activities and Events

wellness workshop

Wellness Workshop Series

The Peer Wellness Program offers a variety of drop-in Wellness themed workshops on topics related to harm reduction, physical health, population health and mental health.

These workshops are interactive, wellness focused and designed by students for uOttawa students!

Gaming
virtual reality

Virtual Reality (VR) and Wellness Gaming

Drop by the Wellness Lounge during our operating hours. Come solo or bring a friend (or two!)

therapy dog session

Therapy Dog Sessions

Drop-in spots are limited – secure your spot by making your reservation!

Visit the Wellness Lounge

Monday to Friday - from 12 pm to 5 pm.

The Peer Chat will not be available:

  • July 3rd (Canada Day Statutory Holiday)
  • August 7th (Civic Holiday) 
  • September 4th (Labour Day)
  • October 9th (Thanksgiving)
  • December 23rd to January 2nd, 2024 - inclusive (Holiday Break)
  • Location: UCU 203
  • Hours of operation: Monday to Friday from 12 pm to 5 pm

The Wellness Lounge will be closed:

  • July 3rd (Canada Day Statutory Holiday)
  • August 7th (Civic Holiday) 
  • September 4th (Labour Day)
  • October 9th (Thanksgiving)
  • December 23rd to January 2nd, 2024 - inclusive (Holiday Break)
  • Location: 90U 151

The 90U Wellness Lounge will be closed during the spring-summer.  

wellness lounge