EP3: Recources and Support (Voices of France)

In this Feel’in @Live episode on health resources and mental well-being, three guests shared their perspectives: Tim and Gabin, two students, and Ophélie, the school nurse at INSA.Tim knows he can find resources online or seek support within his school, where he could be referred to a specialist if needed. Still, both he and Gabin admitted they often don’t feel “legitimate” enough to ask for help—believing others may struggle more, or considering stress as just a normal part of life.Ophélie highlighted that many students feel the same way, yet her office welcomes everyone. Sometimes, simply being listened to is enough, while in other cases students are referred to psychologists, sophrologists, or other professionals. She also described several initiatives at INSA: the “well-being week” held twice a year with workshops on massage, art therapy, sleep, and stress management; a monthly café to discuss health topics; and a new relaxation room with massage chairs and wellness equipment, which Tim found very helpful to recharge.At the national level, mental health was declared a major cause in France in 2025, with initiatives like Mon soutien psy, offering young people up to 12 free sessions with a psychologist.For improvements, Tim and Gabin suggested addressing the root causes of student stress, such as heavy schedules, and encouraging a cultural shift so that consulting a mental health professional is not seen as negative. Ophélie concluded by mentioning that the next “well-being week” will include new workshops inspired by feedback from students and staff participating in the Feel’in @Live project.