With that goal in mind, Marjorie Scaffa, Ph.D., health and wellness counselor at the USA College of Medicine, is providing virtual counseling online in 15-, 30-, or 60-minute time blocks. Call (251) 460-7051 or email mscaffa@southalabama.edu to make an appointment.
In addition, Scaffa will be hosting weekly virtual Wellness Chats on Thursdays at 4 p.m. The format will be a brief presentation and then time for discussion and questions. Medical students will receive a Zoom invitation no later than the morning of the event.
The first chat is scheduled for April 2. Timothy Gilbert, Ed.D., assistant dean of accreditation and planning at the USA College of Medicine, will talk about how to get the most out of online learning. During the second chat on April 9, Scaffa will talk about maintaining well-being during quarantine.
Scaffa provided the following tips for mental health during quarantine.
What to do every day:
- Get some sunlight. Go outside from time to time. When inside your home, be sure to open shades, curtains, etc.
- Play upbeat music during the day and dance like no one is watching.
- Shower and wear clean clothes. You will feel more awake and ready for the day.
- Drink lots of water. Use a fancy glass to make it more fun.
- Stay connected. Contact at least one friend or family member each day.
- Get moving. Take a walk or a bike ride.
- Seek a higher purpose through yoga, meditation, prayer, and/or reading religious texts or inspirational material.
The USA Counseling and Testing Center has a webpage on mental health services and resources for students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Visit https://www.southalabama.edu/departments/counseling/coronavirus.html.
