Eagles – Ask for Help if You Need It

The sun rises over Thumb Butte, near Embry-Riddle’s Prescott Campus, in Arizona. (Photo: Embry-Riddle)

Sep 17, 2020, 7:11 AM

We are living in stressful times. For some of you, the pandemic may be the least of it. Whether you are feeling overwhelmed by personal challenges or the state of the world, it’s essential to ask for mental health support sooner rather than later.

Often, we may feel embarrassed to ask for help, but think about it – how do you feel when someone asks you for help? Most likely, you feel honored. By asking for help when we need it, we are practicing good self-care and showing someone else that we trust and have confidence in them.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) has pointed out that added stress during an infectious disease outbreak can trigger or worsen anxiety and depression as well as substance abuse. To take care of your emotional health, the CDC recommends eating well, getting plenty of sleep, regular exercise, and taking breaks from upsetting news coverage.

Avoid self-medicating with drugs or alcohol. Look for service opportunities such as helping those affected by wildfires, homelessness or food insecurity. If you are up to it, helping others can be a great way to improve your own mental health.

Support Services for Students

All students who have United Health Care Student Resources (UHCSR) can access tele-counseling for free through the HealthiestYou by Teledoc service. Log onto the HealthiestYou online portal. Or, download the HealthiestYou (HY) app on your smart phone. HealthiestYou services are available by phone, video or chat. UHCSR card holders can also call (855) 870-5858 to set up virtual medical or mental health appointments, (877) 862-1172 for UHCSR counseling services.

Students with other insurance plans may have other mental health support options through their providers. They can also also access the HealthiestYou by Teledoc services, with mental health plans beginning at $85 per week. Financial aid may be available.

In addition, both of Embry-Riddle’s residential campuses offer Counseling Services. On the Prescott Campus, call (928) 777-3212. On the Daytona Beach Campus, call (386) 226-6035 to make an appointment, or log onto ERNIE to review online resources including drop-in virtual workshops.

Embry-Riddle offers a broad range of support services, including:

Counseling

Daytona Beach Campus Counseling Services: (386) 226-6035

Prescott Campus Counseling Services: (928) 777-3312

Dean of Students

Daytona Beach Campus: dbdos@erau.edu

Prescott Campus: prdos@erau.edu

Worldwide Campus: wwdos@erau.edu

Health & Wellness

Daytona Beach Campus: (386) 226-7917

Prescott Campus: (928) 777-6653

Campus Safety & Security