With midterms approaching and winter weather forcing many students indoors, mental health is top of mind for the Roosevelt community. The University fortunately offers a diverse slate of mental health initiatives that allow Lakers to find a healthy balance between a centered mind and academic achievement. In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic and more extensive virtual interactions in everyday life, Roosevelt is aware of the challenges modern students face.
“The administration noticed a massive uptick in mental health requests during the pandemic,” says Meagan Jarmuz, Director of Student Affairs (Special Initiatives and Programs). “It’s been our goal to diversify the options for students both virtually and in-person, and we’re always striving for them to manage both their academic responsibilities and personal development in this important period of their lives.”
All Roosevelt students have access to Caravan Wellness: a wellness app that offers on-demand content such as guided meditations, virtual yoga classes and relaxation activities. Students simply register for the app through the designated Roosevelt portal, and they can begin a mental health module at no additional cost. An extension of Caravan Wellness is Timely Care, a telehealth portal for students that allows them to match with licenses therapists from the comfort of home.
Roosevelt is also the recipient of the FY23 IBHE Governor’s Emergency Education Relief (GEER II) Fund competitive grant. The University’s awarded grant—which is valued at over $121,000—will be used to further bolster the mental health infrastructure and strengthen its network of emotional and academic support systems.
The funds will be used to hire a full-time mental health coach (MHC) who will serve as an advisor to Roosevelt students, faculty and staff. They will also catalog wellness resources in a one-stop, web-based resource center and offer students stress reduction workshops and moderated support groups. As well, the MHC will coach faculty to recognize mental health issues and better embed wellness resources into their classrooms.
“This role will be tailored based on student feedback, and many young people who have used our services are interested in access to a psychiatrist for regular consultation or assistance in finding a full-time therapist,” says Jarmuz. “This professional will be able to offer in-person consultation for students who currently require it.”
The Student Affairs team also has additional programming for midterms and Mental Health Awareness Month in May to assist students during high-stress testing periods.
