Jessica Walker
Manager of Active Living
she/her
Athletics and Recreation
Jessica works tirelessly to create awesome Fitness & Active Living programming for all students at Queen's. She believes in me as a Student Leader, and allows me to take on leadership roles that help me grow professionally and personally. These programs help to benefit the mental health of many students. She is there if I need support, and is understanding when life get's heavy encouraging me to take time for myself. This helps to remind me that there is so much more to life than school and work, and it is important to advocate for your health since it is your most important investment.
Anonymous Student
To me, positive mental health is a state of well-being where one can confidently navigate life stressors. It's about using the expertise and support of others to improve resiliency skills, acquire tools or resources, and educate yourself on your own body. One of my favourite tools is the use of regular movement to support your mental health. It is undeniable that physical activity helps with sleep, mood, and overall quality of life, along with create connections with others and a network of people to lean on.
I support mental health by offering a variety of low-barrier active living opportunities and programs. One in particular that I'd like to highlight is a joint program with Health Promotion called 'Prescription Exercise at Queen's' (PE-Q) - funded by the Physical Education alumni class of '73. The program is for Queen's students experiencing mild to moderate symptoms of anxiety or depression, and upon admittance, they can participate in four free hours of personal training and 2x peer-wellness coaching session. Focusing on improving mental health through physical activity, the program helps clients think about their movement behaviours based on the 24-hour movement guidelines, which focuses on sleep, sedentary behaviour, and physical activity while giving students the skills to be independent movers.
We all experience challenges with mental health at some point in life. Don't be shy or embarrassed to ask for support and guidance, and remember that a little bit of movement can significantly help. Even getting outside for a 10-minute walk can boost your mood and relax your brain.
--- Jessica Walker