PE-Q is a 4-to-6-week referral-only program for students who are experiencing symptoms of mild to moderate anxiety and/or depression. The program aims to give students the knowledge, skills and resources to start becoming physically active and feel more socially connected.
This program started due to research showing the positive effects physical activity has on mental health. Students in PE-Q showed a reduction in anxiety and depressive symptoms, an increase in physical activity planning and action control (Flood et al., 2019). Since 2017, over 300 students have benefited from participating including the clients, personal trainers, and peer wellness coaches.
How to Get Involved
Students who meet eligibility criteria can be referred at any point during the year. Once they complete the intake process, they are matched with a certified personal trainer and peer wellness coach.
- By booking an in-person
- By asking about PE-Q during a pre-existing medical, mental health or accessibility appointment at Student Wellness Services
- By talking with a staff member from:
Interested in joining the PE-Q team? Learn more about how to get involved as a volunteer Peer Wellness Coach or .
Program Overview
Through this unique collaboration between Athletics & Recreation (A&R) and Student Wellness Services (SWS), eligible students receive:
- Four free 60-minute sessions with an A&R Personal Trainer (PT)
- Two 30-minute goal setting sessions with a Peer Wellness Coach (PWC) to help transition to exercising independently
- An optional 30-minute fitness program design session with a PT or 4 free group fitness class passes
- An optional final check-in appointment with a PWC
PE-Q is designed for students who are motivated to use physical activity to manage their mental health and who are currently not physically active more than 2 times a week.
