A message of support for our Bobcat community

The following message was shared with OHIO students, faculty and staff on Sunday, January 29. 
 

Dear Bobcats — 

In recent days, communities across our nation and our world have once again faced needless violence, tragedy and loss. Incidents in California have reawakened the ongoing pain of mass shootings. Continued tensions in the Middle East and shootings near an Israeli synagogue ring all too familiar to religious conflicts both here and abroad. Student-led protests and government executions in Iran, and the ongoing war in Ukraine remind us how far we are from the prospect of peace. And, much closer to home in Memphis, brutality from those we should be able to trust has stirred immeasurable fear yet again. These incidents and more leave us in distress, wondering what is happening, and what we can do. Understandably, we all respond in varying ways. Please know that we share in your sadness, perplexity and distress, and are here to help. 

We want to remind you that the University has resources and avenues to assist you anytime you need help processing trauma or distress. If you believe you would benefit from support for your psychological and emotional well-being, please consider the resources listed below.

Counseling and Psychological Services (CPS) 

• CPS provides mental health and adjustment services to students and also consultation to faculty, administrators and parents who support our students. 
• Drop-in services, crisis support, individual and group therapy as well as psychiatric medication consultation are just some of the services available to students through CPS. Students may contact CPS at any time by calling 740-593-1616. If calling after hours, press 1 to be connected with a counselor. 
• CPS staff members will also help students in connecting to a wide range of support services and resources both on and off campus.  Please visit the CPS website at www.ohio.edu/counseling for more information. 

Employee Assistance Program 

• Ohio University's Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and Work/Life program are offered through Impact Behavioral Healthcare Services.
• The EAP is available to all Ohio University employees and their family members.
• Visit Impact Employee Assistance and enter 'ohiouniversity' as the username under the heading Member Login to access informational materials and resources. 
• The program features include confidential 24/7 live professional assistance. Call 800-227-6007 and more. 

In addition, we welcome students to access resources of support through the Ohio University Dean of Students Office. We encourage you to check in with and support one another during these difficult times. Know that we join you in your grief and frustration and continue to be committed to working toward a better world.  

Sincerely, 

Salome Nnoromele 
Interim Vice President for Diversity & Inclusion 

Lyn Redington
Interim Vice President for Student Affairs