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Students,
The Rhodes College Student Counseling Center recognizes that this is a time when members of our community may be experiencing a range of emotions in response to the impact of COVID-19 on our lives. There are many unknowns and a great deal of change. We wanted to make sure that you know that we are available for support of our students even if they are not currently on campus.
Please call us at 901-843-3128 or email us at counseling@rhodes.edu, and we will connect you with a counselor who can talk with you about your needs and options for services and recommendations.
If you are a patient of our psychiatrist, Dr. Williams, and need to schedule a time to discuss medication refills, please call our main number 901-843-3128.
Given the stress that many of us may be experiencing at this time, we would like to offer some information about coping and some resources that could help.
The Great Unknown 10 Tips for Dealing with Uncertainty
Most people are creatures of habit. When things go as planned, we feel in control. But when life throws a curveball, it can leave us feeling anxious and stressed. For many Americans life feels particularly uncertain lately, with an unconventional presidential administration, social protests in the news and uncertainty in the aftermath of natural disasters such as hurricanes and wildfires.
Findings from the most recent American Psychological Association Stress in America Survey highlight other common ways that uncertainty stresses us out. No one can avoid the unexpected. But these simple steps can help you better face life’s uncertainties.
• Be kind to yourself. Some people are better at dealing with uncertainties than others, so don’t beat yourself up if your tolerance for unpredictability is lower than a friend’s. Remind yourself that it might take time for the stressful situation to resolve, and be patient with yourself in the meantime. • Reflect on past successes. Chances are you’ve overcome stressful events in the past – and you survived! Give yourself credit. Reflect on what you did during that event that was helpful, and what you might like to do differently this time. • Develop new skills. When life is relatively calm, make a point to try things outside your comfort zone. From standing up to a difficult boss to trying a new sport, taking risks helps you develop confidence and skills that come in handy when life veers off course. • Limit exposure to news. When we’re stressed about something, it can be hard to look away. But compulsively checking the news only keeps you wound up. Try to limit your check-ins and avoid the news during vulnerable times of day, such as right before bedtime. • Avoid dwelling on things you can’t control. When uncertainty strikes, many people immediately imagine worst-case scenarios. Get out of the habit of ruminating on negative events. • Take your own advice. Ask yourself: If a friend came to me with this worry, what would I tell her? Imagining your situation from the outside can often provide perspective and fresh ideas. • Engage in self-care. Don’t let stress derail your healthy routines. Make efforts to eat well, exercise and get enough sleep. Many people find stress release in practices such as yoga and meditation. • Seek support from those you trust. Many people isolate themselves when they’re stressed or worried. But social support is important, so reach out to family and friends. • Control what you can. Focus on the things that are within your control, even if it’s as simple as weekly meal planning or laying out your clothes the night before a stressful day. Establish routines to give your days and weeks some comforting structure. • Ask for help. If you’re having trouble managing stress and coping with uncertainty on your own, ask for help. Psychologists are experts in helping people develop healthy ways to cope with stress. Find a psychologist in your area by using APA’s Psychologist Locator Service.
Updated October 2017; reviewed October 2019. Source: American Psychological Association
Recognizing the challenges faced by students everywhere during these unique circumstances, Active Minds has created a special online hub for students to support their mental health during COVID-19.
Student Chat: Student-Led Mental Health Advocacy in an Era of Physical Distancing - Wednesday, March 25, 7 p.m. ET/ 6 p.m. CT Intended for: Student mental health advocates In an unprecedented moment for higher education, students continue to lead the way with innovative, creative, and impactful ideas to support the mental health needs of their peers. This interactive meeting and discussion, led by Active Minds, will share strategies students have employed to maintain connection, educate and support mental health and wellness, and build community at a time of increased anxiety, isolation, and instability among students. Limited to 100 student participants. Register here. Communicating in Quarantine: Tips to Encourage Mental Wellness in Close Quarters - Thursday, March 26, 7 p.m. ET/6 p.m. CT Intended for: young adults, parents, remote workers, neighbors/community members All over the country, families, communities, schools, and workplaces are facing feelings of isolation and challenges with communicating with others as a result of students returning home after school closures; individuals balancing multiple responsibilities in a shared space with each other and other family members or roommates; colleagues, students, faculty, and administrators continuing their work through online formats; and members of the community working to support their most vulnerable neighbors while practicing physical distancing. This webinar will share easy, practical ways we can start supporting each other better right now through active listening. Limited to 500 participants. Register here.
For information about additional resources available, please visit the Rhodes Student Counseling Center webpage.
Dr. Pam Detrie Director of Student Counseling
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