Transitioning to online instruction impacts more than just academics. It can affect the mental health and well-being of faculty and staff.
Here are some resources to help our Pitt-Titusville community during this unprecedented time.
Active Minds, a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising mental health awareness among college students, published a list of how students can cope with being suddenly disengaged from our communities.
Maintain routines
No matter where you are, try to replicate your schedule throughout the day.
Practice healthy habits and self-care that benefits you
Get a healthy amount of sleep each night, eat well, exercise regularly, and avoid alcohol.
Avoid large crowds, but don’t disengage
Take advantage of social media, email, texting and video calls while also visiting relatives nearby regularly. Google Chrome is also offering an extension that allows you to watch movies and television shows with multiple people.
Seek news only from reliable sources and in increments
It’s easy to over-consume news, and misinformation can create increased anxiety. It’s important to be informed, but we also need to disconnect at times.
Take a break
Find unique games to distract your mind. Take an online yoga class or even try a meditation app.
Working from home
Working remotely can have positive effects on our mental health such as having a flexible schedule and reducing work-related stress. Though, working from home can still challenge mental health. The boundary of work and home life can be blurred and can lead to feelings of isolation.
Forbes released a list of how to remain productive and healthy while working from home.
Have a set workspace
Use an area of your home to dedicate to work with relevant files, office supplies, and relevant materials. If you can, set up your work computer on a desk.
Avoid home distractions
Don’t underestimate the power of your refrigerator or bed. Keep those temptations at bay.
Plan your day
This will help minimize your distractions and maximize your productivity.
Brush up on your communication skills
Since you’ll be home, you have to become an even better communicator since you won’t have physical or verbal cues sitting across from you.
Take breaks
Considering adding spurts of rest while you plan your day. Stretch or take a walk. It will help you both physically and mentally.
For faculty and staff with families
This is new territory for all of us, and it can be challenging to explain to younger members of our families. NPR released a comic strip and radio story to help children understand the coronavirus, while the National Association of School Psychologists released a guide for parents on how to speak to their children about the virus. For parents with teens and tweens, The New York Times published an article speaking with experts on how parents can help their older children understand the facts and be prepared.
Crisis Resources
If you feel entirely overwhelmed, alone and at risk of self-harm, remember you are never truly alone: Crisis Text Line: text HELLO to 741-741
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-8255
Also as employees we have access to Life Solutions, which can provide support during this stressful time.