Campus Wellness

HealthyMinds N.S. was created to make sure students have access to mental health supports whenever they need them. Their website offers multiple mental health supports and services that are available. These are free to post-secondary students in Nova Scotia.

For more information, visit: healthymindsns.ca

Laura MacDonald is AST’s newest Student Wellness Champion.

MacDonald is a Cape Bretoner living in Halifax. She’s an MDiv student at Atlantic School of Theology.

“When I’m not in class discussing all types of theology, I like to listen to music, especially from my record collection,” shared MacDonald. “There’s just something special about listening to This Is the Sea by the Waterboys on the original pressing or Fetch the Bolt Cutters by Fiona Apple as loud as it can go! Without disturbing the neighbours, of course.”

MacDonald explained that a lot of students are having new experiences or are on paths of discovery.

“Whether it’s ministry or academics, we learn a lot about ourselves. Student work-life balance can be a huge stressor, as well as external factors, so I hope in some way I can help students unload some of their stress.”

As she takes on the role of Student Wellness Champion at AST, MacDonald is hoping that students on campus will feel safe enough to discuss stressors ranging from finances to burnout.

“I hope to offer an array of events for students. I have activities planned like therapy dogs and pumpkin painting. I’m trying to workshop an event where students can openly discuss their stressors in the hope that they feel seen and heard. As well as hopefully picking up self-care practices. I’ll be sure to have food at the events!”

MacDonald also talked about how she maintains personal balance during busy academic terms.

“When studies become demanding both physically and spiritually, I do a few things. I love to listen to rock and roll. T. Rex is great for that. On the other end of the spectrum, sometimes I want silence. Sitting by the water on campus is great for that. I enjoy watching and listening to the birds; this often naturally leads to silent prayer.”

“When I’m not studying, I enjoy spending time with my friends. I hold them deeply in my heart. We do everything from watching movies to travelling together. I also love attending live music when I can. LCD Soundsystem and Oasis have been my favourite gigs. If it’s summer, I love to swim in the ocean, especially at Black Brook Beach.”

If you’re a student and you’re feeling overwhelmed or you want to get involved in student wellness initiatives, you can email Laura MacDonald at Laura.macdonald@astheology.ns.ca

“From there, I would be happy to send resources from Healthy Minds N.S. We have resources like Good2Talk and TogetherAll that I would be happy to share.”

“I don’t have an actual office. Students can reach out to me whenever. However, it is unlikely I’ll reply on weekends, as I’ll be at my other job. I do read your emails! Sometimes I’m busy with something else and want to give you a genuine, thoughtful reply.”

MacDonald’s piece of encouragement and practical wellness advice to fellow students is simple.

“Take care of yourself! Don’t rush or push yourself. Listen to your body. If your body is asking for rest, then rest.”

Updated May 2025

AST continues to follow the latest guidance from public health officials. Given that flu, COVID-19, colds and other illnesses are prevalent during the fall and winter, we encourage everyone to continue to take steps to minimize the spread.

Please stay home to recover if you are ill or test positive for COVID-19. It is important to remember that others within our community may have a higher risk of severe disease. Refer to the Nova Scotia Health website for advice on staying healthy, avoiding infections and how to manage an illness.

We will continue to monitor the situation closely and adjust as necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of our community.

Thank you for your cooperation as we continue to educate, learn and work in a healthy and safe environment.