Millions of people around the UK experience high levels of stress and national Stress Awareness Month is designed to get people thinking about modern stress, how to spot the signs and how to prevent it.

Given the challenges of dealing with COVID-19 and new social distancing measures, Edge Hill recognises that the health and well-being of every student and member of staff has never been more important.

The University is doing all it can to help everyone adjust to new ways of learning and working, supporting mental health and well-being and continuing to offer advice to those who may be experiencing financial difficulties due to the global outbreak.

Student Services and Human Resources have brought together plenty of resources to help students and staff, including those from national charities, and are reiterating the support the University can offer its Edge Hill community.

Fay Sherrington, Director of Student Services, said: ‘The well-being and happiness of our students is paramount. During this year’s Stress Awareness Month I want to ensure all our students know there is lots of support for them to help them deal with the realities of the COVID-19 crisis.

‘We have moved our services online or over the phone and colleagues across the University are offering additional support to help students continue their learning online. We know it’s going to be a tough few months, but we will get through it together.’

Director of Human Resources, Sonya Clarkson, added: ‘My team have provided new resources and guides to make sure all staff have the help they need during this difficult time. We are also asking everyone to look after their colleagues by staying in contact and supporting each other virtually or over the phone.

‘We are encouraging colleagues to go for walks, try out some meditation methods and be open about any issues they may be having so we can all be there for one another.’

Resources students and staff are being encouraged to access to support well being and help them stay motivated include:

• Edge Hill has opened up Big White Wall to all staff and students which provides access to a 24/7 online community and professional support from trained counsellors.
• The Campus Life team have created a programme of online events to help students feel part of the Edge Hill community, wherever they are. Activities include Netflix watch parties, weekly competitions and live chat sessions.
• Students can access the university’s money advice service if they are facing difficulties
• Full access to over 248,900 online resources is available to support learning via the library
• Support to find part-time work from careers
•  UniSkills services to support students’ online learning
• Links to the latest LinkedIn Learning on how to work from home and manage time effectively
• The latest advice on ‘Coronavirus and Your Well-being’ from charity Mind
• Advice on supporting both yourself and your colleagues during this crisis
• Tips on keeping the kids entertained while the whole family is at home
• Available learning resources for those parents who have suddenly become teachers
• Students and staff can stay fit in their homes and follow daily workout videos online on the Edge Hill Sports Department Facebook page
• Students can earn £50 by filming a typical day in isolation, click here for full details

It is hoped that this advice will help students and staff know that the University is always there to offer support through these unprecedented times.

If you’re a student and need advice and support for your well-being, email studentwellbeing@edgehill.ac.uk.

If you’re a member of staff, the well-being and development team are available by email StaffWellbeingAndDevelopment@edgehill.ac.uk to provide support.

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Image credit: Edge Hill University