Tag Archives: Help

Education, Events, Mental Health Resources, Office of Student Life, Performance, Public Safety, Resources, The Office of Wellness and Mental Health

CULTIVATING CARE ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Presenting Day 2 of Cultivating Care and Reaching Out In Kindness, brought to you by the Office of Student Life and the Office of Wellness and Mental Health!

With technology usage at an all-time high, you may experience joy and frustration with life online.  We use social media to stay connected with friends and family, keep up with news and celebrities, inform others about our lives and more.  The convenience of smartphones means we can get up-to-the-second updates from our app notifications, and for many, this leads to being stuck in a pattern of grabbing our phones at every chime and engaging in constant scrolling.  Topics, such as the pandemic’s impact on our lives and economy, racial discourse, and political sparring are splashed all over our timelines.

So how do you take care of yourself while enjoying social media?  Check out these tips!

  1. Before you open an app and start scrolling, ask yourself if you’re in the mood for what you might see. Check in with yourself during and after your time online.
  2. Do you have people whose posts trigger you? Consider muting them, so you cannot see their posts when you scroll.  This can be done on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook!
  3. Schedule your time online. Be purposeful when you engage instead of just reaching for the phone when you hear a notification.  This will help you with not being overwhelmed.
  4. Turn off your notifications! It is hard to stay focused on the world around you with constant pinging, and it may cause you to start a scrolling session and lose track of time and task.  You may also feel anxious knowing there are posts, messages and videos waiting for you to observe.  Control how and when you engage instead of the notifications shaping that for you.
  5. Remember that what you see of others (and what you post of yourself) isn’t fully representative of the real world. Others are choosing what they share with you online, just the same as you are choosing when you post.  Be careful not to compare yourself to polished images.
  6. Be careful in the comment section. Think before you comment, and consider the source when you read what others say- it is easy to get caught up in negativity when you end up doomsurfing or doomscrolling (pattern of seeking or viewing negative content, even if it makes you sad, anxious, or angry).
  7. Don’t ignore cyberbullying. We all have a right to respect when online- if you are mistreated, see something offensive, or view content that just doesn’t feel right, report it.  People can feel emboldened behind anonymous screennames, and algorithms miss questionable content all the time, so it is up to us as an online community to keep it safe for us all!
  8. If it all just seems like too much, feel free to take a break! Let your followers know so they don’t worry about you.  Take care of you first!

For another perspective on taking a break online, check out Social Media Detox…This Changed My Life!!   Happy Scrolling!

As a reminder, you can participate by:

  1. Take a moment to anonymously share a few words of gratitude here, which will be displayed on a “virtual bulletin board” and become a video to be released on Nov. 11.
  2. Complete and email the “Kindness Card” to someone you really appreciate or someone who could simply use some extra words of encouragement at this time. The link to access the card is here.
Education, Mental Health Resources, Public Safety, Resources, The Office of Wellness and Mental Health, Tip of the Week, Veterans

The “S” Word- What To Do To Prevent Suicide

The National Suicide Hotline Designation Act has passed in the US House of Representatives today!  It aims to create a three-digit number (988) for suicide prevention and mental health crises, and direct calls to the already-established National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.  Having previously passed in the Senate, it is awaiting presidential approval and signature, and will require all telephone service providers to route calls from the Lifeline to 988 by July 16, 2022.

In the meantime, here are some resources to assist you in finding suicide prevention information, contacts and resources for yourself and others.  As safety is paramount, if you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, or know of someone that is, calling 911 is the first line of intervention.  You may also go to your local emergency room for assistance.

Note: This information is not exhaustive, nor is its inclusion an endorsement by The Office of Wellness and Mental Health.

Who to contact:

  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:
    • Available 24/7
    • 1-800-273-8255, or chat
    • 1-888-628-9454 (Spanish Language)
    • 711 (Deaf or hard of hearing)
    • 1-800-273-8255 and press 1, text 838255, or chat (Veterans)
  • PRS Crisis Link Hotline (Northern Virginia):
    • Available 24/7
    • 703-527-4077 or text CONNECT to 85511
    • 711 (Deaf or hard of hearing)
  • Crisis Text Line:
    • Available 24/7
    • Text HOME to 741741
  • The Trevor Project (LGBT):
    • Available 24/7
    • 1-866-488-7386
    • Text START to 678678
    • TrevorCHAT

Warning signs that intervention may be necessary:

  • Talking about:
    • Killing themselves
    • Having no reason to live
    • Not wanting to live
    • Feeling trapped
    • Not wanting to be here anymore
    • Experiencing unbearable pain
    • Feeling like a burden to others
  • Exhibiting behaviors of:
    • Withdrawing from activities
    • Isolating from others
    • Increased drinking or substance use
    • Recklessness
    • Aggression
    • Planning ways to kill themselves, including internet searches and gathering means to inflict harm
    • Cutting, or other self-harm actions
    • Sleeping too much, or not enough
    • Giving away treasured possessions
    • Goodbye calls and/or visits to others
  • Displaying signs of:
    • Abrupt/erratic changes in mood
    • Depression
    • Irritability
    • Anhedonia (lack of interest in activities once enjoyed)
    • Rage
    • Feeling humiliated, attacked, dismissed or singled out

Resources on suicide and self-harm:

Although suicide is a difficult topic and experience for many, we cannot remain silent.  If you or a classmate/colleague/friend/family member is struggling, remember, there is hope and help is out there.  Let’s work together to quell our fear of the “s” word, to keep each other safe and well, and to end the stigma of self-harm and suicidal thinking.  You are not alone, your life is precious, and you are worthy of becoming your best self; you just have to be around to see how far you can fly!

Education, NOVACares, Performance, Resources, Tip of the Week

Learning, Time Management and Organization Apps for Those Needing a Boost

Recognizing that technology is a regular part of our daily functioning, and can be used to benefit us in the day to day, below is a compiled list of apps that may assist you through your learning journey.

Free apps were included, as available.  Apps being included in this list does not equate to endorsement by NOVACares or Northern Virginia Community College.

Apps for Tutoring, Studying Assistance & Time Management

Chegg Tutors

Tutor.com To-Go

TutorMe

Audio Note Lite (Android) (iOs)

Educreations Interactive Whiteboard

inClass

myHomework

Grammarly

 

Apps for Learners with Dyslexia

Sound Literacy

Read the Text for Me

Pocket

SnapType

Mental Note Lite

Teen & Adult Phonics Library

Lectio

Practice English Grammar- Free

Grammar Up- Free

ModMath

Apps for Learners with Attention Issues

Voice Dream

RescueTime

Finish

Remember the Milk (Android) (iOs)

Brain Focus

Asana (Android) (iOs)

 

Apps for Learners with Autism Spectrum Disorders

CommBoards Lite- AAC Speech Assistant

MoodPanda (Android) (iOs)

HabitRPG

Routinely

Todoist

Dropophone

Apps for Stress Management

Headspace

Calm

10% Happier

The Mindfulness App

My Life

Education, Mental Health Resources, NOVACares, Performance, Resources, Tip of the Week

Tips For Success as You Gear Up for a New Semester

As fall semester is fast approaching, some of you are beginning college for the first time, some are continuing on your current track, and some are returning after a break in your studies, or to begin a new area of study altogether.  Adjustment is the word as you move through your college experience, particularly during these unprecedented times.

Below are some tips to support your efforts for a success semester:

Prioritize your attendance: There’s no principal’s office in college, and you will not find many people clocking your time.  However, don’t cheat yourself by skipping class; you’ll miss out on lecture material, fall behind due to procrastination, and miss out on real-time connections with your classmates.  Protect your investment (remember, you’re paying) by showing up for class!

Avoid late work/make-up assignments and exams– Try to complete your work timely; make-up assignments and exams are difficult to schedule for both you and your professor, can compound your work in other courses, and may lead to the development of the poor habit of pushing things off.  Time management is imperative for your success!  If you need accommodations, apply early and openly communicate with your professors should an emergency arise.

Do your own work!– Plagiarism is not only an academic integrity offense, but it robs you the opportunity of showing off your abilities.  Be careful not to just change words around from a source; this is known as turn-of-phrase plagiarism, and is still considered cheating!  Always cite your sources.  Tutoring is available for free through NOVA, and includes paper reviews.  Having a late night?  Don’t fret! Tutor.com offers 24/7 tutoring services accessible through CANVAS.

Put down that phone– Even the best multi-taskers can get distracted by their phones.  Make sure to get the most of your lectures by putting your phone down; you won’t miss vital information, and will convey to your professor that you care and are paying attention.  Excessive use can impact your sleep and mood; too much social media time is liked to depression and anxiety symptoms.

Utilize academic advising– Check in with your advisor at least once a semester to make sure that you are taking the classes you desire, and that they follow the track of your degree or certification program.  They can also help you if you need to change or decrease your case load.  Academic advisors can inform you about extracurricular activities and other interests, and how to fit them into your schedule.

Join extracurricular activities– To round out your college experience, it’s a great idea to heck out and engage in clubs and campus activities.  Consider connecting with campus clubs and organizations, and joining the Virtual Student Union, which will allow you to forge relationships with your fellow students (and they make great résumé builders).

Stay healthy– Eat a healthy diet, get adequate sleep, and move your body!  Establish a routine in your school schedule and in your personal life, and maintain mental wellness through taking breaks, maintaining boundaries, and checking in with family and friends and expressing your feelings.  Resources for a variety of wellness needs are provided through the NOVACares office.  You can also reach out for help with concerns you have at NOVA by submitting a NOVACares report.

You are embarking on a remarkable journey to validate and expand your potential through higher education; display your talents and skills.  High fives to an awesome fall semester!

 

Mental Health Resources, NOVACares, Performance, Resources, Tip of the Week

What To Do When Uncertainty Is The Only Thing We’re Certain Of

As we trudge through another month of life during a pandemic, many questions about the future remain.  The constant state of the unknown can be anxiety-provoking at minimum, and even though we have all made adjustments, attempting to settle into our new “normal”, the rules, expectations, and mores seem to shift at a moment’s notice.

Even on our best days, the sense of uncertainty and lack of control is ever-present.  We try to resume our routines but can feel that things are not quite as they once were in the sea of masks, cleaner and hand sanitizer shortages, remote study and work environments, and travel restrictions.  Although none of us are sure when the current situation will end, there are strategies to mitigate the anxiety of the unknown.

Reflect– Take the time to check in with yourself; how are you feeling? Try and pinpoint things that are going well and feel comforting to you, as well as trials you are experiencing, and what you are feeling uncertain about.  Consider journaling, meditating or praying.

Be kind to yourself– Do not dwell on or minimize your struggles by comparing them to others or fixating on what you “should” be doing.  Recognize that you are doing your best, and your best is enough.  Treat yourself as you would treat a friend when they come to you in need.

Focus on what you can control– Limit your news and social media exposure, don’t ruminate on worst case scenarios, or conceptualize fast forwarding to the end of rough times to get your life back- your life is happening right now.  Instead, focus on what you can do and control, like your health, activity, relationships and social time.  Work towards your goals a little every day.

Take care of yourself– Make sure to tend to your basic wellness needs, like healthy diet, exercise and adequate sleep.  Prioritizing your physical and mental health will bolster resilience during difficult times.  Also make sure to maintain healthy boundaries- say “no” if you don’t feel up to something, establish a routine, and end work or study time appropriately (set an alarm if you need to!).

Try a new hobby or skill– Instead of focusing on what you can no longer do, or what has changed, limiting your ability to do your job, studies, or hobbies as you used to, consider a new hobby.  Revisit an activity you have not engaged in in some time, or seek to learn a new skill.  This will help with your sense of purpose.

Ask for help- If you are struggling, and are experiencing difficulty functioning daily, consider asking for help.  Mental health professionals, such as therapist and psychologists, are available to assist you during a difficult time.  The NOVACares mental health provider database can be accessed at https://www.nvcc.edu/novacares/resources.html.

 

Education, Mental Health Resources, NOVACares, Performance, Resources, Tip of the Week

Stuck at Your Computer? Quick Break Ideas

Now more than ever, the pandemic has us stuck in front of our computers to engage in school, work, social contact, and taking care of duties like bills and grocery shopping.  As sitting and engaging with your computer too long is detrimental, frequent breaks are necessary.

It is recommended that for your eyes, you should follow the 20-20-20 rule:  Every 20 minutes, look away from your computer 20 feet away for 20 seconds to combat eye fatigue.  Micro-breaks are two minutes or less, and are quick way to take a physical break from your computer (and chair) to help your back and other muscles engaged when sitting.  Rest breaks are advised every 30 to 60 minutes to give you the fullest benefits of renewed energy by stepping away from the computer, physically and mentally.

As you know, too much of anything can be harmful, so here are some tips to get your away from your computer for a break!

Micro-breaks:

  • Stretch!  Bend over and touch your toes, reach your arms above your head and touch your palms…just move!
  • Pace around your home to get the blood moving
  • Grab a healthy snack; berries, fresh veggies, kale chips- explore your fridge and cabinets
  • Send a thank you email, or leave a review for a recent purchase
  • Tidy your workstation- toss those stray Post-it notes, take your dishes to the sink, and do a little sanitizing
  • Do nothing for 2 minutes; if you touch your keyboard or mouse, you’ll have to start over!
  • Enjoy a cup of tea or coffee
  • Add a bullet to your bucket list

Rest breaks:

    • Take a quick walk; you can even sneak in a quick call to a friend or family member
    • Take a 15 minute nap; you’ll wake re-energized to get back to work
    • Listen to an inspiring TED talk to motivate you to keep going
    • Watch the opening sequence of a late night show; you’ll get a quick news recap and a few chuckles!
    • Sit outside and observe nature, take in the sounds and sights
    • Take a dance break!  Put on your favorite artist, or give a new one a try

NOVACares, Resources, Tip of the Week

How to Be Supportive Without “Fixing”

It is very human to want to help someone, particularly someone you care about, when you see them stressed out or in pain.  It is also very human to seek validation for your own experiences.  Can you recall a time you needed to be heard, and someone told you what you “should” do instead?  Not very helpful, huh?

As illustrated in the short video below, we can use empathy to be present for others during their struggles as to not fall into “fixing” mode- although well-intentioned, unless your thoughts and advice are requested, you should avoid giving them as to not alienate the person opening up to you, because advice may not be what they are seeking, or what they feel they need right then.  Do not assume what they may need- ask them how you can help them in the moment to support their feelings, not to fix the issue.

Be an active listener, seeking the message being sent to you, instead of thinking of what you want to say next.  You can reflect to the speaker that you heard them by repeating back in your words what they said, asking for clarification, and even just saying things like, “wow, that sounds rough,” and “what a difficult day you had.”  Doing so illustrates that you represent a safe space where the speaker can open up, instead of a person who may be judging or not understanding them.  You can also ask open ended questions, such as, “what happened next?” and “how did that make you feel?”  These invite the speaker to fully express their feelings, and helps you truly hear them.

A discussion between you and the person you care for should occur to help you both articulate the ways that you like to give and receive support in your relationship, and to create space for you both to address issues together, instead of working against each other.  This is pertinent practice for you to advocate for yourself when someone is trying to support you, and for you to know how to best assist someone when called on to do so.

For additional information on supporting and not fixing, check out the following:

It’s Not About The Nail                              https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-4EDhdAHrOg

Stop Trying to Fix Things, Just Listen! https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/skills-healthy-relationships/201606/stop-trying-fix-things-just-listen

Relationship Advice: How to Stop “Fixing” and Start Listening https://www.growingself.com/stop-fixing/

How to show up for a friend without trying to fix their problems, according to a therapist                         https://hellogiggles.com/lifestyle/how-to-support-a-friend-without-fixing-problems/

Mental Health Resources, NOVACares, Tip of the Week

Daily Affirmations for a Positive Mindset

Increasing expectations for productivity and perfection placed on each of us in a world of “Go! Go! Go!” can bring about feelings of frustration, failure, and negativity.  Having a rainbow of emotions is something we all experience and have to manage.   At times, feeling low or upset can make getting through the day seem impossible, and that the world expects you to ALWAYS smile through your pain.  Healthy positivity entails being honest about your feelings and expectations with yourself and others, not expecting or trying to attain perfection, and acknowledging your mood has direct implications on your outlook and output in a given day.

Reciting daily affirmations is a tool to help combat negativity.  You can try the examples below, and may enjoy coming up with your own.  Place them in locations you encounter early in your day, like your bathroom mirror or refrigerator door.  Consider using objects, like keychains, or participating in The Kindness Rocks Project . You can also utilize an app, like ThinkUp (iOS and Android devices.), to search affirmations and record your own, or put an affirmation in the subject line of your phone alarm clock.  Remember: “You are what you think!”

  • I am loved, and I am lovable.
  • I am enough.
  • I let go of past hurts as they no longer serve me.
  • I am capable.
  • I will not compare myself to strangers on the internet.
  • I will utilize my talents today.
  • I wake up today with strength in my heart, and clarity in my mind.
  • My fears of the unknown are fading away.
  • I’m getting stronger every day.
  • I can do this.
  • I have the courage to say no.
  • I will not take negativity from others personally.
  • This is my body, and I love it.
  • It is fine for me to make mistakes; I will use them to grow.
  • I will not apologize for being myself.
  • My goals are my focus.
  • Success is in my future.
  • I will not sweat the small stuff.
  • I will work smarter, not harder.
  • I will celebrate the small victories.

NOVACares does not endorse the application referenced above; it is included for illustrative purposes only.