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Managing mental health during troubling times: Tools for navigating current world events

Although pre-pandemic routines are re-emerging, these are still troubling times for many. Current events such as recent mass shootings, the war in Ukraine, economic uncertainty and the ongoing COVID situation disturb many of us. 

As we resume familiar activities, it is important to recognize the collective hardships we continue to face and remember the lessons learned during the challenges of recent years. Mental health matters, and we are here to support you and your family as we navigate many troubling world events.

Resources to help your family navigate the modern world and current events


Many Stanford families are seeking support on how to talk to their kids about current events and manage the many challenges of parenting in the modern world. The WorkLife Office has resources to help you learn more and find the support you need.

Mental health and wellness support for you and your family


We recognize mental health is a critical element in your family’s overall wellness. Whether you’re looking for counseling services, family support or ways to learn more about mental health and wellness, below are some programs that will help you and your family thrive.

  • Stanford offers mental health services through your university-provided benefits plan, the Faculty Staff Help Center and free programs such as Meru Health and Brightline. Visit Cardinal at Work to learn more about what’s available to you and how to get the support you need. 
  • You also have access to free wellness programs through BeWell and the WorkLife Office. Although these programs are not direct providers of mental health services, they support mental wellness by connecting families with resources and offering services that enhance well-being. 
  • Wellness events and learning opportunities on many important topics happen all year long. Workshops and events from the WorkLife Office include caregivers' seminars, postpartum discussion groups and more. BeWell’s STAP-approved Healthy Living classes, apps and coaching packages cover a variety of topics, including stress management and self-care.
  • In addition to providing discussion groups and free counseling services for you and your family, the Faculty Staff Help Center can support your department by facilitating conversations to help your team manage uncertainty and stressful times. 

Keeping mental health a priority throughout the year


It’s important to recognize that we are still in a period of ongoing challenge and uncertainty. As we navigate the troubling state of current events, let’s hold onto an important lesson learned during the pandemic — mental health matters. Stanford encourages you to get the support you need for you and your family to thrive — now and moving forward. 

Emergency resources


If you need more support, or if you or someone you know is in distress and in need of emergency services, you'll find access to police, crisis hotlines and more information on the Faculty Staff Help Center website. For on-campus emergencies, call 9-911.

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