Vanderbilt Faculty & Staff Health and Wellness

The Coronavirus pandemic has been traumatizing and 2020 has been an exhausting year. As a result, many have been living much of the time in "survival mode." Anxiety, fear, and trauma interrupt our ability to readily access our frontal cortex. This is the part of our brain that controls our cognitive skills including problem solving, memory, and emotional expression. It serves as the brain's "dispatch center." When functioning in survival mode, it is harder to focus, prioritize, and effectively manage conflict. This can impact an individual's productivity.

The Winter Holidays are a time of anticipation and meaning for many. They remind us of our family traditions, our childhoods, and an array of expectations. This year, COVID-19 will also change our holiday celebrations. Vanderbilt Work/Life Connections-EAP shares some ways in which you can navigate the holidays, and manage the negative feelings which this holiday season may bring.

​The Holiday season is usually a time for workplace celebrations, families gathering with hugs and food, and friends connecting at parties. Sadly, this year will be different due to the current pandemic. Jim Kendall, LCSW, CEAP, Manager of Work/Life Connections-EAP, shares some ideas on how to connect with family when social distancing is a necessity.

October is Depression Awareness Month. Now more than ever, it is important to take stock of your mood and mental health. Learn the signs and symptoms of depression, and the resources available to you.

What it means to be emotionally healthy and how to nurture that part of ourselves.

When there are challenging cases that impact caregiver psychological well-being, Vanderbilt offers a variety of support services for faculty and staff.

When a colleague is impacted by an unanticipated outcome or challenging case, Peer Support Teams within a workgroup proactively offer emotional support to affected peers.

Adverse Event/Unexpected Outcome Support

Even though there is much to be learned about healthy nutrition and the reasonable, healthy approach to eating and exercise our heads and hearts often have different perspectives on the matter.

​ Your browser does not support the audio element. Download the file to your computer. Jim Kendall, director of Vanderbilt's Work/Life Connections-EAP, suggests strategies for maintaining resilience during the holiday season.