Dear Hokie,

This time of year seems like a good time to remind you that we care about you!

As classes conclude and final exams begin, my colleagues and I know that this can be a stressful time of year for you. As such, I wanted to send this note to encourage you to take care of yourself. Your well-being is of utmost importance to us. It is why we created a variety of study break spaces and stress-relieving events.

We also want to remind you to commit to quality sleep, eat healthy, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, exercise or be active, get outside for some fresh air, and know that you can always ask for help.

Whether it be reaching out to family back home, your roommate or friends locally, your RA in the residence halls, a professor, advisor, staff member, or mentor, or any of the below resources, there is always a listening ear and caring heart willing to help. If you see a fellow Hokie having a hard day, I invite you to reach out to them to lend support, extend kindness, or make a referral.

I wanted to remind you of resources available to you. Below is a list (not exhaustive) of campus, local, regional and national support services. I hope you will save this information and utilize it as needed. I wish you the best of luck in these remaining days of 2018 and the best and brightest wishes for 2019!

With care,

Patricia A. Perillo, Ph.D.
Vice President for Student Affairs

Resources

  • COOK COUNSELING CENTER has counselors available 24 hours a day, seven days a week via their 540-231-6557 phone line. The center has three locations in Blacksburg — McComas Hall, East Eggleston, and Kent Square. Cook Counseling Center has a Roanoke location in Riverside I on the second floor.
    Cook Counseling Center is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday. Students who pay the health fee are not charged for services. Visit the center online for more information. Students who are in crisis will be evaluated for risk and an appropriate safety plan established. Crisis consultation appointments are not scheduled and waiting times may be long depending upon the number of students who have already come in.

  • DEAN OF STUDENTS OFFICE – The Dean of Students Office (DOS) is committed to offering care and support to students so they flourish in nearly every imaginable way. Located in 109 East Eggleston Hall for walk-in traffic Monday thru Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., they are also available for appointment by phone to 540-231-3787 or email to dean.students@vt.edu. After-hours and on weekends, 365 days a year, the Dean of Students Office is available at 540-231-6411, press 1.
    This DOS Office has a list of local faith/interfaith leaders who are available to support you in your journey.  Please contact the office if you want to speak with a faith leader.

  • HOKIE WELLNESS – The Hokie Wellness team strives to educate and empower every Hokie to take an active and engaging day-to-day approach to their wellness in order to enjoy a long, healthful, and purpose-filled life. For a complete calendar of wellness opportunities, visit Hokie Wellness online or email hokiewellness@vt.edu.

  • ACCESS / RAFT  – NRVCS Emergency Services provides emergency evaluation and crisis intervention to the New River Valley 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. A friend or family member can call for you if you feel that you are unable to do so yourself. Call 540-961-8400.

  • CONNECT – A 24-hour referral and emergency evaluation service of Carillion Health Care. Call 1-800-284-8898 or 540-981-8181.

  • ARC – A mental health admittance and referral service of Montgomery Regional Hospital and Lewis Gale Hospital. Call 804-327-5191 or 877-886-7026.

  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
    1-800-273-8255 (1-800-TALK); Available 24 hours a day

  • ULifeline - Text "START" to 741-741 or call 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

  • Police – 911
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