Self-Care & Support
It is especially important during stressful and uncertain times to find ways to take care of yourself and others and to seek support when necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
I feel stressed or overwhelmed. Who can I talk to?
Cornell community members are being impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic in a variety of ways, and may be experiencing a myriad of emotions including anxiety, grief, loneliness and worry for the future. Those who could benefit from support are encouraged to connect with the resources below.
- Students on the Ithaca campus may contact Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS).
- Students at Cornell Tech may contact Student Services for support.
- Faculty and staff in Ithaca and New York City may contact the Faculty & Staff Assistance Program (FSAP). Additional health plan benefits, including telehealth services are also available to benefits-eligible employees.
- Chaplains and spiritual advisors in Cornell United Religious Work (CURW) are available to speak with students seeking spiritual support and care, online and/or by phone.
- Confidential care and support for individuals affected by bias is also available, and any member of the community can report a bias incident or related concerns.
What resources are available remotely for students?
Cornell Health provides a wide range of services – including medical care and counseling – through video visits and other telehealth visits, available to students without a copay. To schedule an appointment, students can call Cornell Health at 607-255-5155.
- Telehealth visits are available without a copay to those covered on a Cornell student health plan (SHP or SHP+) and to those who pay the student health fee.
- A student’s location and need will determine their appointment type (learn more about eligibility for services).
- To schedule an appointment, students can call Cornell Health at 607-255-5155 or log in to myCornellHealth and send a secure message requesting an appointment.
Additionally, the cultural centers and student empowerment area staff members will still be available to support and connect with students virtually.
Will religious services still be provided?
At this time, all religious services scheduled by Cornell United Religious Work in Anabel Taylor Hall and Sage Chapel have been cancelled until further notice. However, many chaplaincies are still providing online services and community gatherings. For more information, please consult with the websites of individual chaplaincies or Associate Dean Oliver Goodrich.
What community resources are available to help employees?
Human Resources has developed a collection of Cornell and community resources to support the physical, emotional and mental well-being of employees and share information on caregiving, food and delivery services, how to help others in the community, and more.
What child care options are available?
Information about Cornell and community-based child care resources is available on the Human Resources COVID-19 Workplace Guidance website.
Can I use campus fitness services? Are online fitness classes available?
As mandated by New York state, all fitness facilities closed, effective March 16. We will update the campus community when this restriction is lifted.
In the interim, Cornell Recreational Services Fitness Centers are offering live, reoccurring virtual group classes that are open to everyone, and the Cornell Faculty/Staff Wellness Program is offering a variety of virtual services.
Multiple studies have shown that spending time in nature can help reduce stress and anxiety and increase one’s sense of overall well-being. There are many ways to enjoy the outdoors while practicing physical (or social) distancing. Cornell Outdoor Education has provided a guide for outdoor activities to help get you started. The grounds of the Cornell Botanic Gardens are also open every day, dawn to dusk, but please remember to stay six feet away from others, don’t gather in groups of any size, and refrain from interacting with staff.