Dear Students,
This has certainly been a historic week! As we collectively await election results, I want to remind you to take some time for yourself and find opportunities to de-stress. Whether it is through exercise, watching your favorite movie, or catching up a friend, there are many ways reduce anxiety and create balance to address the dimensions of wellness in your life.
During a regular year, let alone a presidential election season amid a pandemic, this is the time where social obligations and academic deadlines begin to collide. Feelings of fatigue or anxiety due to uncertainty are very normal. Please know if you need additional support, want to talk with someone or want to build skills in how to manage stress, staff at GatorWell Health Promotion Services and the Counseling & Wellness Center are available.
The flip of the calendar to November, also means a shift out of daylight savings time. As such, it is getting darker outside earlier. If you are traveling around town or campus, I encourage you to take advantage of transportation options. The Student Nighttime Auxiliary Patrol (SNAP) is a free, nightly, campus safety and transportation service for students sponsored by UF Student Government, Student Traffic Court and UF Transportation and Parking Services. SNAP operates four to seven 15-passenger vans (depending on demand) seven nights a week from 6:30 p.m. – 3 a.m.
Additionally, UF Safe Rides By Lyft program has been expanded to 50% off all qualifying Lyft rides effective November 1. The discount is available Wednesday through Sunday between the hours of 9 p.m. – 3 a.m. on rides that begin and end within the service area. You can learn more at https://taps.ufl.edu/alternative-transportation/uf-safe-rides/.
Lastly, we are now fully in flu season. In addition to combatting COVID-19, we want you to take steps to remain healthy and avoid the flu.
As Dr. Ron Berry, director of the University of Florida Student Health Care Center, mentioned in his recent Alligator column, getting a flu shot is one way to help take care of yourself and protect your family and friends. You can schedule your free flu shot today at https://shcc.ufl.edu/.
Thank you for doing your part by wearing a mask and getting a flu shot to promote the health of our community.
Hope you have a wonderful and restful weekend.
Be safe, be well, and as always – Go Gators!
Dr. D’Andra Mull
Vice President for Student Affairs
Quick Links:
https://www.alligator.org/opinion/dr-ron-berry-get-your-flu-shot-today/article_b290f6ec-1ac7-11eb-9dcf-77ff133c3511.html?block_id=1494496
https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2020/10/30/science/wear-mask-covid-particles-ul.html?referringSource=articleShare