Student mental health research matters
2M+
> 70%
75%
Students are enrolled in universities and colleges across Canada
of youth in Canada pursue post-secondary education
Of post-secondary students report struggling with mental health challenges
Student mental health is a pressing issue that affects millions of young people pursuing education. While over 70% of youth in Canada pursue post-secondary qualifications, this important life transition brings significant challenges. Research shows that 75% of Canadian post-secondary students face mental health difficulties during their studies, and more students now enter university already experiencing mental health concerns. This growing need for support surpasses what many institutions are able to currently provide, making a dedicated student mental health research initiative a crucial part of supporting students at the University of Toronto and beyond.
Inlight is the only student mental health research initiative of its kind in Canada
We generate research
Inlight leads, supports, and funds research activities that advance student mental health and well-being.
We train researchers
Inlight’s innovative training initiatives are equipping the next generation to be leaders in this emerging area.
We implement research-based solutions
Inlight collaborates with universities and colleges to make a difference in daily life for students on Canadian campuses.
Engaging students in all we do
We make sure students are involved in the co-design of research and knowledge translation activities that directly impact them. Our Student Advisory Committee ensures the representation, prioritization, and engagement of diverse student voices in student mental health research and related activities across the University of Toronto.
Building capacity in an underserved field of research
Inlight is helping students, faculty, health services staff and administrators engage with student mental health research at post-secondary institutions across Canada.
Student Mental Health Research Training Modules
Providing common language, competencies, and values for engaging in post-secondary student mental health research.
Fellowship Training Program
Supporting research-oriented graduate and professional students and trainees to develop knowledge and research skills.
Student Engagement Resources
Templates, tools, and best practices for student engagement in post-secondary student mental health research.
Partnering to fuel a global movement
Worldwide, postsecondary campuses are grappling with an increased demand for student mental health resources and support, yet share the challenge around limited evidence to guide approaches to addressing this need. International partnership will allow us to share innovative and adapt evidence-based approaches to address this critical research gap.
Inlight is developing collaborations with leading student and youth mental health researchers around the world to generate long-term, global solutions.
Top Stories
Inlight’s Annual Research Symposium: Empowering students to engage in mental health research on campus
On February 27, at U of T’s Faculty Club, student researchers, faculty members and staff from the U of T community gathered to discuss the challenges that persist in post-secondary student mental health, and seek ways to mobilize the knowledge being generated by their...
The 2024-2025 Inlight Research Fellowship Recipients Support Student Mental Health Research
Fifteen students from across the University are recipients of the 2024-2025 Inlight Research Fellowships awarded by Inlight Student Mental Health Research, a U of T institutional strategic initiative committed to improving student mental health and wellness outcomes....
Meet the 2024-2025 Inlight Student Facilitators
We are thrilled to introduce the 2024-2025 Inlight Student Facilitators! The Student Facilitator Program is a key component of the Inlight Training Pathway, and part of Inlight’s student engagement strategy. Introduced in 2023-2024, the Student Facilitator Program...