Mental health, risky behaviors and access to support services: the experience of postsecondary students from OLMCs in Manitoba and New Brunswick

Google translate: Young adults in post-secondary settings are going through a major life transition; many are likely to develop mental health problems, risky behaviors and experience academic difficulties. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the challenges of forming a social network, negatively impacting their mental health. Young people do not often use professional support services due to a lack of awareness of the availability of services and barriers to access. Through an online survey, this study aims to describe the experience of the undergraduate student population of two French-speaking Canadian universities in official language minority communities (OLMCs) (Université de Saint-Boniface et de Moncton) regarding mental health and access to psychosocial support services, substance use, road safety, violence, sexual practices and addiction to personal electronic devices. The data will be analyzed according to age, gender, ethnolinguistic identity profile (first and second language Francophones; international Francophones) and site (rural/urban context and density of Francophones), as these factors may influence health and well-being. Group interviews will be used to disseminate and validate the results of the survey among the student population and to identify the obstacles faced by these young people with regard to access to support services on campus and in the community in the official language. of their choice. The data collected will support the formulation of recommendations on how to promote their access to available support services. These recommendations will be shared with collaborators and political decision-makers in order to support the development of these young people, who are essential to maintaining the vitality of OLMCs.]