Our country is currently experiencing one of the most challenging times in history with the surge of COVID-19, unrest related to racial inequity, and the current political instability. These events, highlighted in media outlets, can be very stressful, making us feel anxious and worried. To help cope, the Center for Work and Family Life (CWFL) is highlighting a few resources for USC faculty and staff to address your mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical needs. To help navigate this unsettling world, you are welcome and encouraged to take advantage of the following programs and resources:
Center for Work and Family Life
CWFL has provided services for the Trojan Family for 40 years, and they continue to support benefits-eligible employees, their dependents, and retirees with free and confidential work/life resources through remote Zoom and telephone sessions. Call them at (213) 821-0800 (24/7) or email cwfl@usc.edu.
USC Sports and Recreation
Exercise is a great way to de-stress. Check out the variety of classes offered through USC Sports and Recreation, including yoga, pilates, dance, high-intensity interval training, and more! For the full schedule and additional information on the virtual class offerings, visit https://recsports.usc.edu/programs-classes/fitness/group-ex-classes/.
USC Health Plans – Behavioral Health
- Those enrolled in USC PPO, EPO Plus or EPO medical coverage may access behavioral health benefits from Lyra Health – call (844) 495-7094.
- Kaiser members may access care from Kaiser Behavioral Health by calling your local clinic where your primary care provider is located. You do not need a referral from your primary care provider to see a behavioral health provider, but some services require preauthorization. For additional resources, visit the Kaiser Mental Health website: https://healthy.kaiserpermanente.org/health-wellness/mental-health
- Anthem HMO offers SelfHelpWorks — choose one of the online Living programs and get a 40% discount to help you lose weight, stop smoking, manage stress, or face an alcohol problem. Visit anthem.com/ca.
Mindfulness Meditation
Mindful USC is a free service from the Office of Religious and Spiritual Life Provost’s Office. It offers ongoing training, practice groups and special events throughout USC. Classes include: Introduction to Mindfulness, Mindfulness Lab II, Mindful Self-Compassion. Drop-in mindfulness classes are also available on Wednesdays which coincides with Inauguration day and can provide a supportive break. https://mindful.usc.edu/.
Prayer/Reflection
There are now virtual meetings for contemplative spiritual practices offered through the Office of Religious Life: https://orsl.usc.edu/programs/spiritual-practices/ When guidelines permit, places for reflection and prayer on USC campus will open again as well: https://visit.usc.edu/on-campus/places-for-reflection-and-prayer/
Trojans Care 4 Trojans – TC4T
This initiative from Office of Campus Wellbeing and Crisis Intervention empowers employees and students to take action via a private, anonymous request form when they are concerned about a fellow Trojan challenged with personal difficulties. https://campussupport.usc.edu/trojans-care-4-trojans/