BOONE, N.C. — Appalachian State University’s Department of Wellness and Prevention Services is open by providing its services online instead of in person so that students — no matter where they may be — can access them safely.

“Although we are physically separated from students, the need for student support services continues to exist, and it is our duty to remain available and responsive to these needs,” said Dr. Alex F. Howard, director of Wellness and Prevention Services and interim assistant vice chancellor for the Division of Student Affairs.

“I am proud of the work being done by my team in Wellness and Prevention Services, as well as the work done by colleagues in other areas within the university. The work highlighted here is an example of how the many dedicated employees of Appalachian seek to create a culture of care for all enrolled students,” he said.

Appalachian’s Koru Mindfulness classes, for example — a four-week program designed to help students feel less stressed, less overwhelmed and more focused, and get better sleep — are being taught through Zoom video conferencing.

In addition, those unable to meet during the free classes are invited to participate in the Koru Un-class, which gives access to the Koru Mindfulness app, including guided meditations, a meditation log and a gratitude journal, for a small fee.

“Right now is a time when we need to be exceptionally gentle with ourselves, and mindfulness can help us with that,” said Elisabeth Cavallaro, Wellness and Prevention Services’ assistant director and coordinator for student mental wellness.

“Mindfulness can help us stay grounded in the present moment, something that people may be finding challenging right now, in the midst of this pandemic. At least for a few moments, we can allow ourselves to be in the present moment, and allow and acknowledge all the feelings and thoughts we are having in a nonjudgmental manner.”

Cavallaro said the desire to participate in Koru is clear, as two-thirds of the classes being offered are full. “Due to demand, right now, we are only allowing our students to sign up for this class, but the ‘un-class’ allows anyone to learn these valuable skills on their own time,” she said.

Additionally, Mindful Minutes — in which Cavallaro leads a 5- to 10-minute meditation — are offered almost every weekday at 1 p.m. on Wellness and Prevention Services’ Facebook and Instagram accounts.

Visit Wellness and Prevention Services’ COVID-19 website for information on the following:

• Collegiate Recovery Community support meetings.
• Special “social distancing” events.
• One-on-one services (clinical and peer-to-peer).
• Online suicide prevention training.

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Mountaineers moving mountains

Appalachian State University’s faculty and staff are transitioning events and experiences to online platforms and developing new ways for Mountaineers to connect.

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About Student Affairs at App State

Student Affairs at App State supports student success and well-being by fostering a culture of care, inclusion and engagement. Its mission is to develop lifelong learners and dynamic leaders through meaningful experiences that challenge and support students. Grounded in a commitment to care, engage and transform, Student Affairs creates a student-centered environment that encourages resilience, leadership, service and global learning. Student Affairs encompasses the following units: Campus Activities, Case Management, the Child Development Center, Community-Engaged Leadership, Counseling and Psychological Services, Office of the Dean of Students, New Mountaineer and Family Engagement, Off-Campus Student Services, Plemmons Student Union, Student Conduct, M.S. Shook Student Health Service, Student Legal Services, Student Veteran Services, University Recreation, and Wellness and Prevention Services. Learn more at https://studentaffairs.appstate.edu.

About Appalachian State University

As a premier public institution, Appalachian State University prepares students to lead purposeful lives. App State is one of 17 campuses in the University of North Carolina System, with a national reputation for innovative teaching and opening access to a high-quality, cost-effective education. The university enrolls more than 21,000 students, has a low student-to-faculty ratio and offers more than 150 undergraduate and 80 graduate majors at its Boone and Hickory campuses and through App State Online. Learn more at https://www.appstate.edu.