Take 5 to Thrive

Dear UNCSA Community,

As we all experience the crunch time before spring break and head toward the end of the academic year, I wanted to take a moment to acknowledge that this can be a tough time mentally, physically and emotionally. Everyone is working at capacity, and giving it their all. As artists, and those who support them, we don’t do things halfway – and that can sometimes be overwhelming.
 
That is why today we are sending out a call to our community to “Take 5” for your mental health and wellness throughout these coming weeks and beyond. 

Take 5 to take a breath. To take a break. To get centered. To get curious. Take 5 to check in with others, too.

Whatever you do with your 5, use it to help reconnect with what is most important – you.

You’ll be seeing the “Take 5” campaign around campus this spring, as a reminder of the many resources available to you – many of which we’ve added in the past year as part of our focus on health and wellness within UNCSA Forward, our five-year strategic plan. In addition to our Health Services and Counseling Services available at our Wellness Center, new student resources range from a platform that provides free, immediate access to teletherapy, called Uwill, to itMatters, an online resource aimed at improving the well-being of students and providing valuable information on stress management, risk behaviors, mental and sleep wellness, and much more. 

For employees, I hope most of you have become familiar with our Employee Assistance Program (EAP), which provides resources for personal and work-life issues at no charge. You also have a confidential benefit called Headspace Care, formerly Ginger, which offers mental health support from the privacy of your smartphone. 

All of these resources have now been compiled on our new Take 5 webpage, for easy access.

Take 5 to explore student and employee resources

We know winter can also be a tough time, but spring is just around the corner, and it is especially glorious here at UNCSA; not just with the tulips, forsythia and cherry trees blooming, but with the buzz of creative energy, the joy of collaboration and a celebration of your achievements.

I encourage everyone to Take 5 when you need it. Taking time to prioritize yourself means that you will be ready for success when it finds you!
 
Sincerely,

Brian Cole 
Chancellor

Feb. 28, 2024