Ohio State is in the process of revising websites and program materials to accurately reflect compliance with the law. While this work occurs, language referencing protected class status or other activities prohibited by Ohio Senate Bill 1 may still appear in some places. However, all programs and activities are being administered in compliance with federal and state law.

EEOB Student Wellness

Proper Care and Feeding of Students…

“What is needed is a culture shift, especially in the upper echelons of the academic hierarchy. Mental health is something that needs to be addressed regularly by departments and administration, instead of just during first week orientation or after a tragic incident.” –Drew Spacht, former EEOB Ph.D
 
We agree! We encourage all of you to develop balance in your lives. Make time to connect with your fellow students and colleagues without a productivity goal. Make time to relax, nourish your body and mind with healthy foods and alternative activities. Remember to get plenty of regular sleep to rejuvenate yourselves as well. You are a student and learning is your job, and you can’t do your job well if you don’t take proper care of yourself. Take a break and bring your lunch to 400 Aronoff, and join in the conversation. No agendas, no topics, just companions. All year.

Vacation time and personal days

Vacations and personal days are important for your personal health and well-being, but you may feel like you are under too much pressure to take time away from your work.  You are welcome to schedule vacation days that do not conflict with your GTA or GRA responsibilities.  Also, it is often possible to take time off from time to time while working as a GTA or GRA by consulting with your supervisor and peers to arrange for a flexible work schedule.  You should also feel free to take advantage of various university-wide break times.

GEES and E&E club camped at Lamping Homestead Recreation Center for the BioBlitz with Keep Wayne Wild

Email Holidays

Some departments in Arts and Sciences have implemented a policy of email holidays, which are dates in the academic year when you should not feel obligated to be “on call”, and when you could enjoy a break from your research, teaching, and courses.  

We recognize this exact timing may not work for everyone, but the goal is to establish some times that you can feel comfortable making plans and taking leave from work. If you need to submit grades or complete other work required by your employment during this time, please communicate with your advisor to find a substitute week where you can feel like you are free to not work or check your emails.  When you have vacations planned at other times, you should feel free to use the out-of-office reply then as well.

Health and Wellness Resources