News from the University Counseling Center

What do laptops, smart phones, digital tablets, Apple watches and TVs have in common?

Now that the everyday routines we relied on have been altered due to far reaching stay at home orders, you might find yourself a little lost in the sauce.

Shifting expectations of yourself, others, and your situation can work wonders. Expecting everything to go exactly as you plan it might be setting yourself up for disappointment.

Thinking about November 3rd, you may begin to notice that you feel overwhelmed, anxious, enraged, scared, withdrawn, discouraged, or other feelings that naturally derive from an uncertain and high-stakes situation. You might be asking, “So what can I do?” Great question! Read on:

Say what you will about 2020, but one thing is certain - our expectations for this year often do not align with our reality. No matter the result, you may feel a sense of unease, fear, anxiety, sadness, hopelessness, discouragement. What now? Here’s a list of ideas we had to help you manage the days and weeks ahead:

Life in the time of COVID and online classes is HARD. If you are feeling overwhelmed or have fallen behind in class, it’s okay! It is likely that your professors are aware and have heard similar things from other students. You are not alone in the struggle. Reaching out to your professors may be the next step in getting back to feeling better. We’ve compiled some tips and strategies to help you start the conversation. 

The COVID-19 pandemic has effectively ground life to a halt for many, or at least it feels that way. Our time and minds aren’t filled with the usual noise that keeps us marching forward...

The Coronavirus, and the new world we find ourselves in, checks ALL the boxes for anxiety triggers:  unfamiliar √    unpredictable √    stressful √    dangerous √ 

It is easy for most of us to empathize with people who are similar to us; we understand them because we have a lot in common. But empathy for people from different backgrounds and life experiences, is harder. Sometimes it’s even difficult with people in your own family...

All of us are making daily decisions about our contact with others and exposure to the outside world. Whether you are deciding whether or not to go to the grocery store or to relocate to Florida, go through some of these questions to help making any decision.

Self-care is a term we’ve all heard before. You may have heard it from your doctor, in the news, or even on your favorite celebrity’s instagram (cue the pics of bubble baths surrounded by warm, inviting candles and a glass of red wine). A simple definition of self care is the practice of taking an active role in protecting one's own mental, emotional, and physical well-being. How do we exercise self-care during these times?

Staring down weeks of  possible boredom, sameness, and restriction can lead to lethargy and low mood. Positive input is important. Joy, satisfaction, and connection are critical. So how do we access these things during a time of upheaval and a newly required hermit lifestyle? Stay connected to family and friends.