OFD has gathered resources to enable quick access to information for navigating faculty life during the pandemic.
UNIVERSITY GUIDANCE
- UMass Response to the Coronavirus - Authoritative and current guidance from UMass Amherst: Health Resources,
Student Resources, Faculty Teaching/Research Resources, Civic-Engagement Resources, and Travel Guidance.
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Vaccination Resources
- UMass Amherst COVID-19 Dashboard - This dashboard, updated every Thursday, includes the current vaccination rate and COVID-19 cases at UMass Amherst
- UMass Amherst COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic - This page includes information about the vaccines and booster shots available at the university's Public Health Promotion Center, as well as the Vaccine Appointment Scheduler to sign up for vaccine appointments
- COVID-19 Vaccine Availability - Search for available vaccines across Massachusetts and schedule vaccine appointments
- COVID-19 Booster Frequently Asked Questions - Information regarding how and why to get a COVID-19 booster shot
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Resilience Resources
- Be realistic with your expectations of yourself and others. Don't hold yourself to normal standards.
- Limit news overexposure by containing news consumption to scheduled blocks of time, and only read from reliable sources.
- Trustworthy sources for global and state updates
- Coronavirus Resource Center - Johns Hopkins University
- COVID-19 - Commonwealth of Massachusetts
- Confronting myths and fear-mongering about Covid-19
- Trustworthy sources for global and state updates
- Get up and move! Crank up your favorite tunes and dance. Take a walk. Add some kind of fun activity to your day.
- Practice good sleep habits such as reducing screen time and stretching at night.
- Be mindful of the moment and your surroundings. Step outside. Breathe deeply. Journal. Focus on gratitude for this moment.
- Focus on the things you can control. Organize your desk; rake your garden leaves; take a deep breath and trust you will get through this.
- Pay attention to your feelings, thoughts, and seek professional help from a licensed mental health professional if necessary.
- Coping with Stress - Centers for Disease Control
- Center for Counseling and Psychological Health - Psychological tips for managing Coronoavirus concerns
- Faculty and Staff Assistance Program - Mental health referrals assistance; will talk about how to support individuals or departments though this time. FSAP is offering webinars on Managing Anxiety, Meditation, and Tending to Wellbeing.
- Resources for a Meditation practice
- Tara Brach on practicing self-compassion
The National Center for Faculty Development and Diversity has compiled many resources and helpful articles about self-care and moving forward for faculty during this challenging time. Note: UMass Amherst has an institutional membership for NCFDD, learn how to setup your free account here.
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Balancing Responsibilities Amid Hybrid Work
- Together Again: Supporting Each Other and Taking Care of Ourselves - Thoughts from the Faculty and Staff Assistance Program on the challenges of returning to campus
- 3 Tips for Transitions Back - A resource recommended by Workplace Learning and Development discussing ideas to aid in the long-term transition back to work
- Modern Workplace Initiative - Information regarding flexible work arrangements at UMass Amherst
- Accessible Workplace - Information regarding COVID-19 accommodations and protections under the ADAAA.
- Disruption-Resilient Instruction - Resources to aid faculty in on-line instruction during the disruption of campus activities.
- Faculty and Staff Concerns - CCPH assistance with assessing and supporting student distress.
- Massachusetts Society of Professors: Campaigns - This page includes MSP’s COVID-19 resources and information. Topics include face-to-face instruction, childcare, and health and safety.
- The Many Virtues of a Virtual Writing Group - Ideas for organizing and successfully running online writing support groups
- Resources to Support Youth and Families During the Coronavirus COVID-19 Outbreak - A list of resources for adults caring for children, including information on vaccines, child care, and mental wellbeing.
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If you or someone in your family gets ill
- Know that you are not alone. Reach out to friends, family, colleagues and ask for what you need.
- Take time. You are entitled to take leave and may utilize FMLA or sick time. Talk with your department chair.
- What to Do If You Are Sick – Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Caring for someone at home – Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Know the Symptoms and When to Seek Care - UMass Amherst Environmental Health & Safety
- UMass Amherst HR Response Team - 413-687-2283 or COVID19HR@umass.edu.