We’ve all had a lot of handle this year, and we’ve had to learn how to manage our lives differently because of the pandemic. We’re all spending more time at home, and less time in a traditional office or classroom setting. Our lives at home may look very different than they did nine months ago. With everything going on in the world right now, it’s no wonder that many of us are feeling more stressed, anxious, depressed, socially isolated, having trouble sleeping, or all of the above.
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the ways in which we would normally cope with these issues may not be available in the same way they were before the pandemic. It’s okay if you find yourself struggling with mental health right now - you are not alone.
Taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health. GW provides resources to help you take care of your mental health. So take some time for yourself and explore these options:
Resources for Students:
- Anxiety Toolbox: This three-session, virtual workshop is intended to help you understand anxiety and learn skills to recognize and manage anxiety symptoms.
- Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS): Part of the Colonial Health Center, CAPS is GW’s center for mental health treatment. Counseling appointments are available via telehealth. They also provide a self-help portal and toolkit chalked full of useful resources.
- GW Listens: This student-run anonymous hotline (202-902-8255) is a place where students can talk to peers about struggles.
- Mental Health Discussion Series: Upcoming sessions include motivation and goal setting (December 2nd), and honoring growth (December 9th).
- Resources for 1st Year Students: A recent GW Hatchet article outlines resources available for students.
Resources for GW Employees:
- Behavioral Health Visits: Available to GW employees enrolled on a GW PPO or HSP medical plan.
- GWell Center for Healthcare Professionals: Focused on promoting optimal wellness for healthcare professionals, this site provides COVID-19 wellness resources that includes live mindfulness practice and self-paced wellness and resilience resources. Webinars are also available.
- Headspace: This mindfulness app is available to benefits-eligible faculty and staff.
- Talkspace: Available to GW employees enrolled on a GW PPO or HSP medical plan.
- Wellbeing Hotline: The Wellbeing Hotline is available to GW faculty and staff, and members of their households.
So whether you are a GW student, faculty or staff member, GW provides numerous resources that can help you focus on your mental health and help you manage life during the pandemic. Take some time to focus on yourself and your mental health. You are worth it!
