Our SSHRC-funded research study explores how wellness approaches, such as digital wellness and trauma-informed care, can support student success in post-secondary institutions. This study aims to understand the perspectives and experiences of students and faculty regarding mental health, technology use, and learning in higher education. The findings will inform recommendations for teaching strategies and mental health interventions in higher education settings.

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Digital citizenship and digital literacy are a focus in many schools across Canada. Although some models focus on digital wellness there is no current model or framework for digital wellness from a positive psychology and mental health perspective. This current grounded theory research examines a new model for digital well-being to be used across the lifespan to promote flourishing in the digital age.

Together with the Future Institute of Chicago, this study seeks to explore the current mental health supports in place for students transitioning to post-secondary education. Data collected from high school students, and first-year students provides insight to mental health struggles students may experience and the type of supports they see valuable during this important transitional period in their educational journeys.

This book explores a variety of topics for educators, administrators and leadership teams, and school staff supporting student mental health as they navigate the digital age. Chapters discuss benefits, risks and moderating variables of technology for early learners (preschool-kindergarten), children and teens (5-18 years), and post-secondary students (18+). Select topics include: cyberbullying and adolescent well-being, impacts of cellphone and social media bans in schools, social media and body image, technology's role in mental health and academic success for post-secondary students, fostering empowerment through digital art making, using mindfulness apps in the classroom, supporting at-risk youth through safe media engagement, and many more!

This qualitative study explores the double-edged sword of TikTok in the lives of youth. Public data from social media and news reports provide case studies that identify risks and benefits of this popular social media platform in relation to youth mental health and development. Recommendations for parents and educators are provided to promote safe and healthy TikTok engagement for youth engaging with the platform. 

How did individuals using social media during the pandemic? Does that social media use have a positive or negative effect on their mental health? An online survey in 2020-2021 of 1398 adults revealed promising benefits such as community connection and reduction of loneliness. However, many negative impacts on mental health were noted such as ‘toxic positivity’, ‘digital drama’, and stress.

The Lab is working with StudentPulse out of Denmark as they develop a feedback platform for post-secondary institutions to collect insights from students about their academic success and well-being at various points in the academic year. Through brief check-ins, StudentPulse's AI-driven recommendations provide students with evidence-based strategies and institutional supports in real time to empower them to take proactive steps to support their well-being. 

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As part of a research team with Mental Health Commission of Canada, we are developing a framework for mental health apps in Canada. Mental health apps are one of the fastest growing areas in app-development. However, to date, there is no standardization of apps available. This framework will help the MHCC standardize mental health apps so that Canadians can make more educated decisions on the apps they engage with, especially when seeking support for mental health problems.​​​​​​

Ageism is a real problem in Canada. A review of media reports from 2010- 2020 reveals startling insights into the damaging words used to describe seniors in Canada, how media shapes narratives about older adults and society's attitudes. This project focuses on recommendations for shifts in thinking, policy development and education that fosters respect, empathy, kindness and empowerment. 

Volume 2 explores insights and recommendations for parents/guardians, families, and community members (e.g., healthcare providers, mental health practitioners, social workers, community leaders, tech developers) to support mental health and well-being for all in the digital age. Chapters discuss the risks and opportunities for technology in various settings as well as moderating variables. Select topics include: gaming and problematic internet use, digital resilience and well-being, social media and parenting in the digital world, youth experiences of traumatic media during mental health recovery, enhancing mental health resilience in educators and healthcare providers through hybrid supervision, youth suicide, digital wellness plans for families, and many more!

This international research project is led by The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), an international organization that works to build better policies for better lives. The project explores creativity as a process and skill that can be developed in students to promote wellness and success. As part of the research team, Ontario Tech is one of 14 post-secondary institutions across the globe involved in the project.

Artistic expression is beneficial for mental health and a possible method of empowerment for children during times of crisis. Exploring how children engaged with the creative arts and the artifacts they created shed light on their experiences during the pandemic. This study, in 2021, included workshops for children and parents to learn how to use the arts as a coping strategy to support mental health (4 workshops held 2020-2021).