When it comes to maintaining a spirit of resiliency during the pandemic, we all know that some days are better than others! The Health & Wellness team has been hard at work the past three months offering services to help VUMC employees better cope with the tough days, minimize anxiety and enhance their well-being. With everything from ConnectCare’s telehealth counseling to new well-being resources, the team is equipping the Vanderbilt community with the tools and tactics to handle COVID-19’s many ripple effects throughout their work and home lives.
“The virus has impacted everyone’s lives in myriad ways, some of which continue to emerge, but our teams are here to help you navigate these uncertain times,” says Jim Kendall, LCSW, ACSW, CEAP, Manager of Work/Life Connections-EAP.
Here are more details on the team's expanded services and how to take advantage of the benefits.
• Counseling and coaching services. The ConnectCARE program, a service of Work/Life Connections-EAP, has conducted more than 600 teleconsulting sessions via phone or ZOOM videoconferencing during the pandemic. Available to all VUMC employees, these telehealth sessions have focused on personal and family issues and dealing with stress and anxiety, as well as Zoom fatigue and fear of returning to work. The team’s clinicians conduct assessments and provide recommendations based on the employee’s specific needs, whether that’s counseling for acute life stressors or performance coaching for greater workplace effectiveness. To schedule an initial assessment, call 615-936-1327.
• Support for those exposed to COVID-19. The Occupational Health Clinic (OHC) has developed a robust monitoring system to identify faculty and staff who have been exposed to COVID-19 positive patients or coworkers. The system allows the team to efficiently perform contact tracings, determine risk of exposure, and quickly communicate recommendations to faculty and staff who have been exposed to individuals with confirmed COVID-19. The Occupational Health Outreach Team, a collaboration between OHC and Work/Life Connections, rounds on any unit or department whose employees want more information or support. During these online visits, the outreach team often answers questions about appropriate PPE, addresses exposure risk concerns, and offers resource for those struggling emotionally or psychologically.
• Wellness resources. The online portal Your Well-being Navigator has been expanded, now including educational articles, helpful links and other resources for developing healthy habits, strengthening mental health, encouraging preventive care and boosting social well-being, especially in the time of COVID-19.
• Exercise motivators. Health Plus provides VUMC faculty and staff with programs focused on improving well-being while social distancing, working remotely and serving in frontline healthcare roles. Recent “Go for the Gold” activities, such as “Move in May” Bingo, have offered chances to win Whole Foods gift cards and other prizes. June will kick off the “Spring into Summer” weight management program.