Managing Stress during COVID-19: A Collection of Campus Resources

Even during the most “normal” of years, college is a stressful time for students. Between trying to balance school, life, and work, there are already enough challenges! Now, add a global pandemic on top of that and suddenly, life as a college student has been turned upside down. 

Like schools and colleges across the country, York College students, faculty, and staff have embraced protocols like social distancing and mask-wearing to help keep students on campus for the Spring 2021 semester. Even as we all do our best to stay safe and protect our community, the constant diligence and disruption to everyday life can feel overwhelming – but we’re all in this together, and you don’t have to navigate these challenges alone. 

The Data 

According to a recent study conducted by Active Minds, one in five college students reported that their mental health significantly worsened during the pandemic and 80% say that their mental health has been negatively impacted during this time. Meanwhile, over half of the student participants said that they were not sure where to go for help with their mental health. 

Stress during a time like this is normal, but it can also have some negative effects on your wellbeing. Be sure to monitor both your physical and mental health. And if you begin to feel like you’re struggling, get in touch with our Counseling Services Office to schedule an appointment today. 

Where to Find Help 

The Counseling Services team assists students in managing stress and anxiety, learning new ways to deal with difficult situations, improving moods, mending relationships, and understanding yourself and your needs a little better.

Whether you’re considering individual or group counseling, couples counseling, or online mental health screenings, Counseling Services is here to guide you. Our clinical staff provide free, confidential counseling to help you through this life-changing time. 

Not Sure You’re Interested?

This week, Counseling Services is offering drop-in hours to help you learn more about the services they provide as well as tips on stress management. There’s no pressure, and no commitment – just the opportunity to say hello, learn something new, and maybe find a campus resource that will help you through this difficult year.  

Zoom Drop-In Hours

Use this Zoom link to “drop in” on Counseling Services during the following hours.

Monday, February 15, 2021
11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
1 – 2 p.m.

Tuesday, February 16, 2021
11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
1 – 2 p.m.

Wednesday, February 17, 2021
10 - 11 a.m.
2 - 3 p.m.

Thursday, February 18, 2021
11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
3 - 4 p.m.

Friday, February 19, 2021
11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
2 - 3 p.m.

Additional Resources for Pandemic-Related Stress Management

• Coping with Stress during the COVID-19 OutbreakCoping with Stress during the COVID-19 Outbreak
• Taking Care of Your Behavioral Health during the OutbreakTaking Care of Your Behavioral Health during the Outbreak
• 6 Ways to Manage COVID Depression

For Podcast Fans

Head over to YCP’s own WVYC-FM Podcast station and listen to an interview between Professor Jeffrey Schiffman and Director of Counseling Services Darrell Wilt, discussing the effects of the pandemic on student and faculty mental health.