Keeping Bobcats Informed, Sept. 14, 2022

Bobcat Parents & Families,

Beginning a semester after a long summer break, or for the first time, comes with a lot of change. Learning to manage time, moving to a new place, and engaging with new friends can all feel a bit overwhelming at times. It is likely that your student, or one of their roommates or friends, will encounter a mental health issue amidst all of these adjustments. Parents should talk with their students about mental health and let them know that if they find themselves struggling, they are not alone.

Awareness, treatment, and open conversations are essential to preventing crises that could result in failing classes, dropping out, or other emotional stress. Luckily, OHIO is equipped with numerous crisis resources and programs, as well as broader well-being assistance to help Bobcats in need. Together we can help your students find their happiness, health, and success at OHIO.

On a lighter note, I want to remind you that Parents Weekend is approaching and is a great opportunity to have a touch point with your student. We will have more information in next week’s newsletter but for those of you anxious to start planning, you can head to our website for more information about special weekend programming.

Warmly,

Kathy A Fahl, MSW

Dean of Students

Know your resources

It's tough to know how to talk about suicide – whether you are the one suffering or you have a friend who is experiencing thoughts of suicide. There are resources that can help you talk it through.

OHIO Crisis Line  740.593.1616

Suicide and Crisis Hotline 988

Crisis Text Line 741.741

Trevor Project 866.488.7386

Trans Lifeline 877.565.8860

Connect with others

Togetherall is a free, online community, and a safe place to support your mental health 24/7. Whether you’re struggling to cope, feeling low or just need a place to talk, Togetherall can help you to explore your feelings in a supportive environment.  

Try out Togetherall

Have you tried WellTrack? It's another resource at OHIO that can help you monitor your mental health.

Group therapy

Group counseling empowers students to give and receive support while working through individual concerns in a safe environment. Call 740.593.1616 to get started.

Coping Clinics

Coping Clinics are held virtually, daily and cover topics such as managing stress and anxiety, coping with feelings of isolation, incorporating mindfulness into daily life, as well as managing time and energy.

Work-study at OHIO

Various work-study opportunities will be highlighted during the Work Study Job Fair on Sept. 20, in Baker 240/242 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Eligible students can view and select a work-study position on their OHIO Student Center.

Learn more

Explore the beauty right outside your window! 

The Ohio Pawpaw Festival is this weekend! Celebrate the largest native fruit tree and the great art and culture Athens County has to offer at Lake Snowden. You can volunteer for free entry, and free shuttles will leave from Baker Student Center all weekend.

Close to campus:

1. Use mAppAthens to take self-guided tours on topics such as local art, history, geology, and more

2. Hike trails throughout The Ridges

3. Have a picnic at Armory Park (just across from the end of Court Street)

A short drive (or bike) away:

1. Rent a kayak or canoe at Strouds Run State Park

2. Take a hike at Sells Park

3. Test your mountain biking skills on the Baileys Trail System

Weekend trips:

1. Explore the accessible Ash Cave trail at Hocking Hills State Park

2. Take an adventure trip with Outdoor Pursuits

3. Visit the newest National Park, New River Gorge, for climbing, hiking, and camping

New esports arena

OHIO video game players and supporters will get to enjoy a new area this fall. The OHIO Esports Arena has officially opened. Head to Scripps Hall 001 to check out the new facility.

THRIVE

While college can be filled with some of the most memorable years of your life, it can also be overwhelming and stressful. It’s easy for your well-being to take a back seat to academic pressures. To combat this, OHIO launched a new initiative, THRIVE, focused on the well-being of all Bobcats.

Share your Blackboard feedback 

Changes are coming to Blackboard, and OHIO would like your opinions. You are invited to share your experiences on the LMS Feedback Form to help determine if OHIO should upgrade to Blackboard Ultra or move to a new vendor. 

Quick Links

Survivor Advocacy Program: Connect with an ally

Counseling Services: Don't wait to get the help you need

Student Job Postings: Work on campus

Sustainability Film Series: Head to the Athena on Court St.