Finals are Approaching. Here’s a Reminder of Mental Health Resources at UVA

With finals week arriving, many students feel greater levels of stress. This increase in anxiety can feel daunting, and it is normal to need more support during this time. Research has proven that finals are one of the top stressors for 31% of college students, with students also citing homework and workload as anxiety-inducing. Problematically, 37% of students listed stress and 29.5% listed anxiety as top reasons why their grades have declined. 

During this coming finals season, managing stressful emotions can help keep students afloat, both academically and mentally. Fortunately, UVA has many resources for mental health support. CAPS at Student Health and Wellness (SHW) has resources for a range of problems students might face. First, a student schedules a phone appointment through the HealthyHoos portal, and a professional will help decide the best course of action from there. They might recommend in-person counseling, talking to professionals over the phone, or attending wellness events to help ease anxiety. Such resources are all included in the UVA student insurance. 

If a student needs more immediate care, SHW can help, too. TimelyCare provides 24-hour virtual access to mental health providers. It costs nothing, and it offers students support for a wide range of issues, from friendship troubles to ongoing psychiatric concerns. 

Students don’t have to call to engage with SHW, though, as a substantial number of resources and events are walk-in friendly. The art room on the third floor of the SHW building allows students to take their minds off classes and just relax with different crafts and art materials, from markers to clay to yarn. 

The Contemplative Commons is also a great place for students to unwind. The building itself offers many areas to relax, and the Contemplative Sciences Center offers frequent yoga classes throughout the week, in addition to a “Chai and Chat” series on Fridays. 

UVA offers an abundance of resources for those feeling the overwhelming stress of final exams. Consider them an extra crutch to lean on, and never be ashamed to ask for help when you need it.