UWF Counseling and Psychological Services offers resources to help students navigate COVID-19

As news broke about the COVID-19 global pandemic and universities across the nation transitioned to remote operations, Counseling and Psychological Services at the University of West Florida immediately ensured accessible resources were in place to help the campus community manage and cope with their “new normal.” 

“We know that students are most successful when barriers are removed,” said Dr. Michele Mannasah, executive director for counseling and health services. “Mental health issues or emotional issues are common struggles students face that can impede their academic success. We’re here to support students through it.” 

Resources available to students, faculty and staff include Therapy Assistance Online, providing access to evidence-based self-help modules that assist with anxiety, depression and other common concerns. A library of psychoeducational resources and tools is also available to the UWF community, including those specifically designed to address coping with anxiety and stress related to COVID-19. 

Students seeking help during this time can access counselors with Counseling and Psychological Services 24/7 by calling 850.474.2420 and following the prompts. Anyone experiencing a life-threatening emergency is urged to call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. 

“Students are still settling in to their new routines, and the ones we’re checking in with are actually doing really well,” Manassah said. “Our main concern at this point is the longer these circumstances go on, the more we’ll hear from students about anxiety and loneliness. We’re trying to get ahead of those potential struggles and stay prepared to help students address them in the coming weeks.” 

Manassah also provided a few tips for adjusting to new routines both physically and mentally. 

“We recommend getting outside in the fresh air and exercising,” she said. “A key part of adjusting to a new normal is creating and maintaining a routine that includes proper self care – staying active, getting enough sleep and eating healthy foods.” 

UWF Recreation Services encourages the entire UWF campus community to remain physically active during this time by offering Facebook Live and Instagram Live group fitness classes. 

To learn more about resources available through Counseling and Psychological Services, visit uwf.edu/caps. For more information on the University’s response to COVID-19, visit uwf.edu/coronavirus.