“I think that it’s important to offer services because Bridgewater is still open, students are still in classes (remotely), the same stresses are still there."
Spring semester at any college is often a hectic time. Throw in a public health crisis and stress levels can rocket, which is why Bridgewater State University is making adjustments to ensure counseling and health services are still available during the COVID-19 outbreak.
Like most schools across the country, because of the pandemic, BSU moved all classes to online/remote learning.
Despite students not physically being on campus, the staff of the Wellness Center is working hard to make sure there is no lag in the availability of counseling and health services.
“I think that it’s important to offer services because Bridgewater is still open, students are still in classes (remotely), the same stresses are still there,” said Dr. Chris Frazer, executive director of the center.
The one change, due to the pandemic, is that all center services are by appointment only and coordinated over the phone. This includes all regularly scheduled counseling service appointments. Telephone triage is available to students by calling counseling services at 508-531-1331 at any time.
All staff has been trained in the use of telehealth, according to Frazer.
Students seeking health services can call 508-531-1252 to speak with a nurse practitioner. Callers are screened for symptoms and then directed to the best resources available, whether that be on campus or via a community provider. Since the center’s front desk staff is working remotely, anyone calling for services should leave a voicemail. The staff will respond promptly within normal business hours.
The BSU community is also invited to follow the Wellness Center on Twitter, @BSUWellness, where tips and other resources concerning mental and physical health are posted.
“We know that this is a tough time of year, people are coming down to the finish line and to now do it from a distance…it really emphasizes for us the need to continue to provide our best version of normalcy,” Frazer said.
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