How UC Online Supports Student Mental Health and Wellbeing

As mental health awareness grows, universities have a responsibility to provide resources and support that benefit student wellbeing. Many institutions have already risen to the challenge. But that isn’t always the case for online learners, whose mental health needs often differ from on-campus students.

In a survey of faculty, staff, and administrators conducted by the Online Learning Consortium (OLC) and Uwill, 54% of respondents observed a lack of mental health services that met online student needs. 

At the University of Cincinnati Online, we’re dedicated to supporting the whole online student experience. In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, let’s explore how UC provides accessible mental health resources and other support services to online learners.

Many factors may deter online learners from taking advantage of their school’s mental health resources.

Their university doesn’t offer virtual counseling. They work full time, and appointment times are too limited. They’re concerned about the quality of care they’ll receive online. They don’t know what resources are available to online learners. 

Most of these obstacles come down to flexibility and access. If you’re earning your degree online, chances are that you value high-quality education that works with your schedule. Naturally, you’d expect the same flexibility from your school’s mental health services.

At UC Online, we understand that our students are busy adults. Some are returning to school after a decade, working full time, raising children—the list goes on. 

With so many plates spinning, it’s easy to become weighed down by academic stress and overwhelm. Awareness is the key to navigating these situations and accessing the support you need. 

UC Online students who reside in Ohio have access to both online and in-person mental health services through UC's Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS). These include:

• Free In-Person Counseling (one-on-one and group sessions) 
• Free Telehealth Counseling
• Virtual Let’s Talk Appointments (scheduled through Bookings) 
• 24/7 Crisis Support
• Connection and Support through Student-Led Peer Communities 
• Local Referrals
• Self-Help Resources
  • Therapy Assistance Online (TAO)
  • UC Reach Out App 
• Stress Management Tools

If you’re an online Bearcat but live outside of Ohio, don’t panic. You still have access to mental health and medical care through our partnership with TimelyCare.

TimelyCare provides virtual mental health care that is free, secure, and easy to access. Never worry about having to commute to an in-person appointment again. Because you can use TimelyCare anytime, anywhere, you can tailor your care to fit your needs.  

Get support through these TimelyCare offerings:

• TalkNow—24/7 on-demand emotional and crisis support.  
• Virtual Counseling—Schedule up to six free counseling appointments per year. You choose the day, time, and mental health provider.
• Self-Care Resources—Guided content available in the Self-Care tab. 
• Peer Communities—Anonymous virtual spaces that are judgement-free and confidential. Connect with and support other students facing similar challenges.

Ready to get started with TimelyCare? Visit this blog for step-by-step instructions.

We prioritize student mental health at UC Online. However, we're equally committed to providing whole-learner, all-around student support. This includes academic support, health and wellness services, and any UC resources that may help you thrive, such as:

• Accessibility Resources
• Campus Recreation
• Peer Wellness Groups
• Student Wellness Center Programs and Events
• Virtual Academic Coaching
• Virtual Peer Tutoring
• Virtual Wellness Resources

Whether you’re in need of academic advising, tutoring, writing assistance, or career exploration, you have access to the same support services as on-campus students.

In search of support unique to your situation as an online student? This is where Student Success Coordinators (SSC) come in. UC Online’s team of full-time SSCs are there to support you throughout your entire educational journey. They can connect you with online resources (such as the ones we’ve mentioned!) and ensure that you’re successfully navigating the online format.  

Remember: it’s okay to struggle with your mental health, especially while you’re balancing work, school, and everything else in your life. Just know that you have access to help and support no matter what you’re going through.

As Mental Health Awareness Month comes to a close, take a moment to check in with yourself, practice self-care, and ask for support if you need it. All of us at UC Online are cheering you on! 

If you’re in need of crisis support, call 513-556-0648 and follow the prompts to be connected to care. Call or text 988 to be connected with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.