COVID-19 Update: Feb. 8, 2022

Taking care of your mental health

It’s been a long pandemic and in the dark months of winter, things can feel even heavier than usual. Keeping an eye on our mental health is so important as we make our way toward better days.

If you need help, reach out. If you see someone struggling, lend a hand. Here are some resources that can help.

Students:

  • Mental health supports from Student Health Services – Call 519-824-4120, Ext. 52131, to connect with a student wellness navigator who will discuss concerns and identify appropriate services and supports to assist you.
  • If you’re in crisis, text “UofG” to 686868 to chat with a trained volunteer crisis responder for support at any time.
  • Get free, professional counselling and information and referrals for mental health, addictions and well-being over the phone from Good2Talk. Call 1-866-925-5454 or text “GOOD2TALKON” to 686868.
  • Connect with HERE 24/7 for addiction, mental health and crisis services provided by 11 local partner agencies. They will help you navigate the system and connect you to local addictions and mental health services. Call 1-844-437-3247.

Faculty and staff:

Clubs and programs to keep you connected

There are lots of ways you can connect with the U of G community this winter. Clubs are running! Check out their events on GryphLife and see how you can get involved.

The Guelph Gryphons Athletics Centre is open! Take a walk on the track, shoot some hoops, go for a swim or hit the rink with your skates! There are lots of ways to get active with your community! New to the Athletics Centre? Sign up for a tour to learn about the services available and how we’re keeping you safe while you exercise.

Thriving during a pandemic means finding ways to keep doing the things we love while keeping each other safe.

Residence spaces available for this semester

Need a place to stay this semester? On-campus residence spaces are available in single and double rooms in U of G’s traditional, suite and townhouse residences. Meal plans are not required in suite or townhouse accommodations. Apply through Student Housing Services. Starting Thursday, Feb. 10, U of G also offers short-term, single-room commuter accommodations. Visit their website for more information.

Staff returning to campus throughout February

In January, Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health rescinded its work from home instruction. Throughout February, units across the University are returning employees to on-site work. Employees can expect to return to on-site work this month, based on their area’s operational plan.

Talk to your manager or supervisor for more information about your work expectations. Getting ready to come back to campus for the first time in a long time? Check out our Ready to Return Checklist for Faculty and Staff for helpful info.

Accessing medical-style masks at U of G

Medical-style masks are available at cost from the University Bookstore. You can also pick up free medical-style masks from the Central Students Association office in the University Centre.

Meeting in person

Need to meet with classmates or co-workers on campus? In-person meetings can take place, so long as you meet safely. Remember to follow the physical distancing markers and capacity limit signs for meeting spaces. Consider hybrid meetings for those who can’t join you in person.

The University’s COVID-19 website is your best source of information on U of G’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Return to Campuses website provides essential information for those coming to campus. If you need to be on campus, make sure you complete the U of G COVID-19 Screening Form every day before you arrive.