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Crisis on Campus: How Higher Ed Leaders Are Reframing Mental Health Through Prevention and Collaboration

TimelyCare — Thu, 12 Jun 2025 16:55:28 +0000

Overview

As campus mental health challenges expand, higher ed leaders must shift from reactive crisis management to proactive, collaborative support systems. Insights from national experts emphasize prevention infrastructure, peer support, trauma-informed response, and scalable technology as critical components of campus resilience.

Insights from national experts on trauma response, student well-being, and building a resilient campus culture.

Student mental health has become one of higher education’s most urgent leadership challenges. From politically charged headlines to campus-specific tragedies, the scope of what constitutes a crisis has expanded, and so must the strategy to respond.

In the recent webinar “Crisis on Campus: A Collaborative Approach to Safeguarding Mental Health and Promoting Student Well-Being,” leaders from The Jed Foundation, The Ohio State University, and Connecticut State Community College gathered to share lessons and strategies to support campus mental health and resilience. The message is clear: institutional leaders must drive the shift from reactive care to preventive, coordinated action.

What counts as a crisis today?

Traditionally, crisis response has centered on isolated events like natural disasters, violence, or loss. But as Micky M. Sharma, PsyD, Director of the Office of Student Life Counseling and Consultation Service at The Ohio State University, explained, today’s campuses are impacted by a wider array of stressors: social unrest, international conflict, community violence, and trauma occurring off campus.

Crisis is not always local, but its effects always are. Institutions must stay attuned to events that may not originate on campus but still deeply affect students’ sense of safety and well-being.

How can institutions build preventative infrastructure?

Prevention isn’t just about stopping crises, it’s about stopping chaos.

Mark Patishnock, PhD. Vice President of School Programs Implementation at The Jed Foundation, challenged the idea that prevention and crisis response are separate functions. Instead, he emphasized the importance of organizational readiness: knowing who’s on the crisis team, what tools and protocols exist, and how decisions are made under pressure. This preparation avoids missteps that can harm students and erode trust.

“It is critical to think about how we’re doing that in the moment, how we are responding from a trauma-informed lens to make sure that we are not creating additional unintended impacts and that things are not going unaddressed that need to be,” Patishnock said.

Leaders can do this by ensuring clear crisis frameworks are already in place:

A crisis management system understood across departments
Clear roles and responsibilities for emergencies
Trauma-informed policies that guide real-time decisions

This kind of infrastructure is a protective factor — and a leadership responsibility.

What should happen in the first 24 hours?

The hours immediately following a crisis are critical, and how you communicate during that time sets the tone for recovery and trust.

Effective crisis communication starts with leveraging your campus experts, particularly your communications and IT teams. Sharma stressed the importance of rapid communication, digital readiness, and coordinated messaging. During a crisis, your website might become the primary resource. Is it ready? Timely, factual information must be easily accessible, not just for students and staff, but also for families and the media.

Leadership must:

Coordinate communications across departments
Create centralized resource hubs
Verify facts and ensure messaging is brief, accurate, and consistent

Panelists also urged taking a trauma-informed approach, with psychological first aid as the initial standard for stabilizing care.

Why peer support matters

Peer networks are a powerful tool in campus mental health strategy, as students often turn to each other before professionals. Meredith Yuhas, PhD, LPC, NCC, ACS, Director of Mental Health Services and Wellness at Connecticut State Community College, highlighted the value of proactively training student leaders to recognize distress, respond with empathy, and refer peers to resources.

These peer groups often have a clearer sense of student sentiment and can communicate in ways that resonate more authentically. Given the limited capacity of most counseling centers, especially on smaller campuses, peer support serves as a critical extension of institutional care. By investing in training and infrastructure ahead of time, institutions can make peer groups a foundational element of both crisis prevention and post-crisis support.

To scale peer support:

Train residence assistants, club leaders, and peer wellness groups
Promote mental health literacy
Normalize help-seeking through “communities of care”

How can technology expand care?

The pandemic underscored just how integral technology can be in supporting student well-being, and that lesson still holds. Digital tools, like TimelyCare, now play a central role in how colleges engage students around mental health.

To be effective, these tools must be both accessible and relevant. Today’s students gravitate toward bite-sized content – think 30-second videos and quick self-check-ins – which means institutions must meet them where they are, both in format and delivery. At the same time, institutions should be selective about what digital tools they endorse. Not all apps are clinically sound, and campuses must vet platforms for evidence-based credibility and cultural fit.

Educating faculty and staff on what these tools offer is helpful, so they can confidently refer students to the right resources. Not every student needs a counseling appointment; sometimes, a guided meditation, a conversation with peers, or even an on-demand yoga class can help bridge the gap.

Ultimately, investing in the right technology and making sure the campus community understands how to use it can expand care beyond the walls of the counseling center.

To maximize impact:

Audit tools for accessibility and clinical validity
Train faculty and staff to refer students confidently
Educate students on options beyond counseling, like on-demand yoga or peer conversations

How should leaders support staff?

Just as students experience crises in different ways, so do the staff who support them. Panelists emphasized the importance of recognizing individual impacts and encouraging a culture of self-awareness and self-care among responding staff. Leaders should promote wellness and resilience-focused activities while normalizing time off when needed.

“You don’t need everyone on your team to be a member of the Avengers,” Sharma said. Giving staff explicit permission to step back helps sustain long-term capacity and prevents burnout during prolonged or repeated crises.

Build policies that:

Allow flexible schedules and staggered shifts during crises
Encourage cross-training to reduce burnout
Provide wellness resources for faculty and staff, not just students

Who owns campus mental health?

The most important shift is cultural: student well-being is not the sole responsibility of the counseling center. It’s a collective mission. The measure of a resilient campus isn’t whether it avoids crisis, but how it supports its people when crisis comes.

Leaders must:

Model vulnerability and care
Prioritize wellness in strategic planning
Allocate resources beyond compliance to compassion and capacity

A resilient campus culture is built through shared ownership, trust, and care.

How TimelyCare can help you lead campus resilience

Higher ed leaders face growing pressure to respond to crises with clarity, compassion, and competence. TimelyCare supports institutions with scalable, evidence-based tools that extend care beyond the counseling center. This year, TimelyCare introduced CrisisNow to provide students a direct phone line with immediate, compassionate support, expanding crisis support outside the TimelyCare app when every second counts.

Contact us to learn how we can help your campus thrive.

Key Takeaways

Modern crises extend beyond campus borders and demand broader readiness
Prevention requires infrastructure
Clear, consistent crisis communication is essential in the first 24 hours
Peer support networks are scalable and effective
Technology must be accessible, trusted, and student-friendly
Staff wellness policies help sustain long-term crisis response
Campus mental health must be a shared responsibility across departments

FAQs

What is trauma-informed crisis response?

It’s an approach that centers psychological safety and avoids actions that could retraumatize affected individuals during and after a crisis.

How can peer support help during a crisis?

Trained student leaders can often identify distress early and refer peers to appropriate resources, helping scale support efficiently.

Why should institutions invest in mental health technology?

Digital tools extend care access, support diverse needs, and offer flexible options beyond traditional counseling.

How can campuses prevent burnout among crisis responders?

Flexible schedules, cross-training, and access to staff wellness programs help teams remain effective over time.

What role does leadership play in mental health strategy?

Executive leaders set the tone by embedding well-being into strategy, modeling care, and allocating resources to sustain support.

The post Crisis on Campus: How Higher Ed Leaders Are Reframing Mental Health Through Prevention and Collaboration appeared first on TimelyCare.

The Transformative Impact of Psychiatry Services on Mental Well-Being

Andrew Kim M.D. — Mon, 09 Jun 2025 13:00:00 +0000

Overview

Psychiatry services play a critical role in supporting college students struggling with depression and anxiety. Evidence-based treatments, such as medication, therapy, and lifestyle interventions, help students manage symptoms and build resilience. TimelyCare’s personalized and data-driven approach delivers measurable improvements in mental well-being.

Managing depression and anxiety in college can be especially challenging. Balancing academic demands, social pressures, and the transition to independence can increase stress, leaving many students overwhelmed and isolated. Psychiatry offers hope through evidence-based approaches that improve mental health and restore a sense of control. By combining therapeutic strategies, medication management and personalized support, psychiatry empowers students to thrive both academically and personally.

How does psychiatry improve mental health?

Psychiatry provides essential tools and strategies to treat both symptoms and root causes of depression and anxiety. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly one-third (31%) of adults in the United States will experience an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives. Despite these challenges, only a fraction receive professional care.

This gap extends to college campuses. Students are entering college with higher mental health needs, and institutional resources may struggle to keep up.

There is hope. Research indicates that expanded psychiatric services are improving student outcomes. A peer-reviewed analysis of the national Healthy Minds Study highlights that while mental health needs have risen, help-seeking has also increased dramatically on U.S. campuses. In the late 2000s, only about 20-25% of students with depression or anxiety received any counseling or medication in the prior year; by 2021, over 50% of students with these conditions were getting treatment, roughly doubling service utilization, a change linked to improved outcomes.

TimelyCare’s Measurement-Based Care (MBC) data demonstrate that patients receiving psychiatric care often experience significant improvements in overall mental well-being.

TimelyCare launched MBC in mid-2023 by collecting Patient Health Questionnaires (PHQ-9) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7) clinical assessments prior to scheduled counseling and psychiatry visits. Over 15 months of progress, those who entered care with severe symptoms achieved, on average, clinically significant change by their third scheduled counseling or psychiatry visit. Those who entered care with clinical symptoms on the PHQ-9 or GAD-7, on average, dropped a severity ranking (e.g., moderate->mild) by their third scheduled counseling or psychiatry visit.

What psychiatric treatment options are available?

Psychiatry encompasses a range of treatment strategies to match diverse student needs.

Medication management

Medications are often essential for treating depression and anxiety. Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications help correct chemical imbalances, alleviate symptoms, and improve emotional regulation.

Therapy as a guide to mental wellness

Therapy works alone or in combination with medication. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is especially effective, helping students recognize and change unhelpful thought patterns. Other evidence-based options, such as Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), are recommended based on individual needs. Medication helps stabilize, while therapy builds coping skills and emotional insight.

Lifestyle interventions

For university students navigating mental health challenges, lifestyle modifications can play a powerful role in psychiatric care. Research highlights the profound potential of non-pharmacological interventions such as regular exercise, cognitive-behavioral interventions (CBI), mindfulness-based therapies, stress management techniques, improved sleep hygiene and healthier dietary choices. These strategies have been shown to significantly reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, offering students practical tools to build emotional resilience and stability over time.

Additionally, a recent systematic review looks at digital mental health interventions (DMHIs) for college students. The study found that more than 80% of technology-based interventions (i.e. web-based therapy programs, mental health apps, online counseling, etc.) were effective or partially effective in reducing students’ depression, anxiety or related mental health symptoms.

Anita Hodnett, director of counseling at Elon University, shares how important it is that TimelyCare has diverse providers for their students. TimelyCare allows students the ability to read bios and pick a counselor who they connect well with.

Why personalized psychiatry matters

Each student’s experience with mental health is unique. Personalized care ensures treatment aligns with individual symptoms, history, and goals.

TimelyCare uses regular assessments to shape care plans and monitor progress. Outcomes include:

Reduced symptoms: Many students report fewer feelings of sadness, anxiety, and hopelessness.
Improved functioning: Better mental health supports academic and social success.
Stronger coping skills: Students gain tools to manage stress and uncertainty.

Support students with TimelyCare Psychiatry

TimelyCare delivers inclusive, flexible psychiatric care designed for college populations. Our services feature:

Customized care plans: Treatment evolves with student needs
Culturally competent providers: Tailored support for diverse communities
Measurement-based care: Data-driven insights to guide recovery

Contact TimelyCare to learn how we can help your campus thrive.

Key Takeaways

Psychiatry offers evidence-based care for depression and anxiety.
Students benefit from medication, therapy, and lifestyle interventions.
TimelyCare’s personalized approach supports measurable improvements in mental health.
Access to psychiatric care is linked to better student outcomes.

FAQs

What is psychiatry’s role in student mental health?

Psychiatry provides diagnostic evaluations, medication management, and therapy to help students manage conditions like depression and anxiety.

Is medication always necessary as part of psychiatric care?

No. Treatment varies. Some students benefit from therapy alone, while others may need medication, or a combination of both.

How quickly do students see results from psychiatry?

At TimelyCare, many students show significant improvement by their third scheduled psychiatry or counseling visit.

Are TimelyCare psychiatric providers licensed?

Yes. All psychiatric providers are licensed professionals with experience supporting college students.

What makes TimelyCare’s approach to care different?

We offer flexible virtual access, culturally competent providers, and a data-informed care model tailored to each student

The post The Transformative Impact of Psychiatry Services on Mental Well-Being appeared first on TimelyCare.

5 Signs It’s Time to Reevaluate Your Student Virtual Health Provider

Becky Laman — Tue, 27 May 2025 22:11:26 +0000

Overview

Virtual mental health providers should be true partners in student well-being, not just scheduling platforms. This blog outlines five warning signs that it may be time to reevaluate your current provider, from negative student feedback to limited integration with campus services. Use these insights to assess quality, accountability, and alignment with your campus needs.

Student mental health is a growing priority across campuses, but the strength of your support system depends heavily on the provider behind it. As colleges and universities increasingly adopt virtual mental health platforms in addition to their existing campus services, many are beginning to uncover critical gaps reflected in student feedback, administrative concerns, and online discourse.

Too often, college and university leaders believe they are partnering with a comprehensive virtual health provider when, in reality, they are contracting with a scheduling tool that waives all clinical responsibility. These platforms hide behind disclaimers, acting as intermediaries with no accountability for care quality, continuity, or outcomes. They do not treat students; they simply route them.

This distinction is not semantics. Institutions have a fiduciary and ethical responsibility to ensure student safety and well-being, not to delegate it to a scheduling service. A true partner does not just schedule care; it stands behind it, delivering oversight, accountability, and measurable results.

If you oversee student affairs or counseling, ask yourself: Are we aligning with a partner that takes ownership of student health, or handing off one of our most critical obligations to a platform built to deflect it?

Here are five key signs it may be time to reassess your current virtual mental health provider.

1. Are students giving negative feedback?

The clearest indicator that your provider is not meeting institutional needs is direct feedback from students. Are they expressing disappointment with care quality, citing a lack of progress, or simply not returning for follow-up sessions? Negative reviews on campus surveys are red flags that engagement is low or the service is failing to address core needs.

Several university administrators have noted in public forums that some virtual platforms present a revolving door of clinicians, making it challenging for students to work with the same professional over time. This fragmentation disrupts the therapeutic process and can lead to student frustration and drop-off.

According to a report by Active Minds, students overwhelmingly value mental health services that are accessible, personalized, and responsive to feedback.

2. Are sessions too short or ineffective?

Therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all, nor is the time it takes to build trust. Yet many virtual mental health platforms rely on 30-minute sessions, limiting students’ ability to process emotions, explore complex issues, or establish a strong connection with their provider. Students notice the difference, too. On Reddit and other online forums, and in focus groups, they’ve voiced frustration with short, surface-level appointments that feel rushed or impersonal. When students don’t feel heard, they’re less likely to stay engaged in care and more likely to fall through the cracks.

While brief check-ins can be helpful in some cases, meaningful progress often requires more time and a nuanced approach to build a trusted relationship with a provider.

“By having the proper time with a trained professional, patients can gain insight into what they are thinking and how they are thinking. Rooted in evidence-based practices and backed by scientific evidence, weekly hour-long therapy sessions are among numerous treatment structures that can help patients achieve clinical gains,” said Dr. Jerry Walker, PhD, Executive Director of Mental Health Services, TimelyCare. Research published in the Journal of Counseling Psychology underscores the value of longer, in-depth sessions for achieving better therapeutic outcomes.

3. Is there limited provider choice or continuity?

Continuity and consistency are critical for students seeking mental health counseling, particularly as they strive to establish trust and rapport with a therapist. Research from the American Psychological Association underscores that therapeutic alliance is one of the most significant predictors of successful treatment outcomes.

Finding the right therapist isn’t just about availability; it’s about connection. Students often feel more comfortable opening up to someone who understands their lived experience, whether that’s related to race, gender identity, culture, or other aspects of who they are. However, on many virtual platforms, choice is limited. When you’re matched at random or given a narrow pool of providers, it can feel like students are being asked to share their personal story with someone who may not fully “get it.”

Students deserve the option to choose a provider who reflects their values, identities, and communication style. That kind of alignment can make all the difference in whether someone sticks with therapy or walks away feeling more isolated than before.

4. Are technical issues affecting access?

While virtual care breaks down many barriers, the technology itself can become a roadblock. Reports from campus professionals and Reddit users alike highlight recurring issues, including failed video connections, the absence of a mobile application, confusing user interfaces, and difficulties accessing support during peak demand periods.

Students with limited digital literacy, spotty internet connections, or disabilities may find themselves excluded from reliable access. According to the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights, virtual mental health platforms must ensure that services are accessible to students with disabilities to comply with federal standards.

An effective mental health provider should prioritize user experience and ensure platforms are accessible and responsive for all students.

5. Is your provider disconnected from campus resources?

Virtual mental health platforms should work with your campus, not around it. Yet too often, counseling center leaders report that these providers operate in isolation, detached from university health services, residence life, and academic support teams. This fragmentation is more than a missed opportunity for collaboration. It creates dangerous gaps in care, undermines continuity, and leaves vulnerable students navigating a disconnected system at precisely the moment they need coordinated support.

The Jed Foundation’s Campus Framework recommends a comprehensive, integrated approach to campus mental health to support early intervention, crisis management, and continuity of care. Without integration and communication, critical safety concerns or clinical updates may not reach on-campus stakeholders, increasing institutional risk and potentially leaving at-risk students unsupported during moments of crisis.

Hear from Seli Fakorzi, director of mental health, TalkNow, Client Liason, about how TimelyCare partners with campus clinics to enhance student support through clinical collaboration. By relieving overwhelmed clinic teams, they allow staff to focus on delivering quality care.

How to take ownership of your campus mental health strategy

If any of these signs resonate, it is time to take a closer look at your current virtual mental health provider. These are not just operational concerns. They speak to the heart of your institution’s responsibility to support student well-being and safety.

Here are three meaningful actions to help you reassess and strengthen your approach:

Listen to your students

Launch anonymous surveys or focus groups to gather candid feedback on their experiences. What they say or do not say about mental health services is one of the most honest indicators of effectivenes.

Audit the data

Review your utilization metrics, wait times, session durations, and continuity rates. Are students staying engaged? Does the diversity of the provider network align with your campus? Patterns in the data can reveal whether your partner is delivering meaningful care or simply checking boxes.

Ask the hard questions

Is your current provider truly accountable for care quality, integration, and outcomes, or are they a technology platform that avoids clinical responsibility? If the answer is unclear, it is time to explore options that offer both access and accountability.

Virtual mental health solutions are only as strong as the partnerships behind them. Your students deserve a provider that shows up, integrates fully, and stands behind the care it delivers. If you are ready to evaluate your current model or explore a partner committed to measurable outcomes and campus integration, our team is here to help.

Ready to strengthen your support system?

TimelyCare partners with campuses to deliver high-quality, integrated mental health care that students trust.

Danielle Ward, EdD, is an Abilene Christian University graduate who said she found extreme value in working with a consistent TimelyCare counselor throughout her program.

“I would look forward to our sessions together. Because I had an ongoing relationship with her in terms of, you know, I had seen her more than once, she would go back and say, well, a few sessions ago, you mentioned X, Y, and Z. How is that or how does that situation relate to what you’re currently going through and experiencing?”

Hear from former Abilene Christian University student Danielle Ward on her transformative experience with a genuine and authentic TimelyCare counselor. Growing up in a household skeptical of therapy, she found it challenging to embrace the idea of seeking help. However, the counselor’s realness made a profound impact, leading Danielle to become an advocate for therapy.

TimelyCare has clinical outcomes data to back up the effectiveness of its scheduled counseling and psychiatry sessions, showing that those who entered care with severe depression or anxiety symptoms achieved clinically significant improvement by their third visit.

If you’re ready to reassess your current model or explore a partner committed to outcomes and accountability, we’re here to help. Contact us to learn how we can help your campus thrive.

Key Takeaways

Student feedback is the most honest indicator of provider effectiveness.
Short, impersonal sessions limit student progress and engagement.
Consistent relationships and identity-matching matter.
Accessibility issues can widen equity gaps in care.
Integration with campus resources is essential for safety and continuity.

FAQs

What is a virtual mental health platform?

A digital service offering counseling and support through telehealth methods, often via app or online portal.

How can I assess provider accountability?

Check for metrics on outcomes, continuity of care, and campus integration. Ask if they take responsibility for clinical quality.

Are short sessions ever appropriate?

Yes, for brief check-ins or ongoing maintenance, but deeper concerns typically need more time.

The post 5 Signs It’s Time to Reevaluate Your Student Virtual Health Provider appeared first on TimelyCare.

From Struggling to Success: Supporting Non-Traditional Students

Manuel Carrillo — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 22:48:44 +0000

Key Takeaways

Non-traditional students (working adults, caregivers, etc.) face unique challenges like balancing responsibilities, financial strain, and social isolation.
Traditional support services often fail to meet their needs due to rigid structures and limited hours.
Virtual success coaching offers a flexible and accessible solution with anytime-anywhere support.
TimelyCare’s virtual success coaching provides personalized, holistic support with 24/7 availability.

Higher education and its students are constantly changing. Yet, many non-traditional students—working adults, caregivers, veterans, or individuals returning to school after several years—face significant challenges. As a first-generation college student who has worked full-time while attending school to support myself and my family, I understand these struggles first hand. Balancing coursework with jobs, family responsibilities, or financial hardships often leaves these students feeling overwhelmed and underserved by campus services, which are often designed with younger, full-time students in mind.
What if there were ways to make higher education truly accessible and empowering for everyone, regardless of their circumstances?

What challenges do non-traditional students face?

Consider the unique challenges that can make pursuing higher education a more complex and demanding journey for non-traditional students.

Balancing coursework and competing priorities

Non-traditional students often juggle multiple responsibilities, whether it’s full-time employment, parenting, or caring for aging relatives. Unlike traditional students, their time and focus are divided across significant competing priorities. This leaves little room for on-campus office hours, study groups, or other support resources typically available to students.

Limited access to support services

Services like academic advising, financial aid assistance, tutoring, and mental health counseling are commonly offered during fixed campus hours. For students who cannot commute to campus or conform to these rigid hours due to external and familial demands, these critical and needed services can feel out of reach. Even in cases where students can access these resources, navigating a complex system of bureaucracy or locating the right department often results in additional frustration.

Financial strain

For many non-traditional students, paying for school is a significant hurdle. Rising tuition costs, paired with day-to-day living expenses, can make it hard to prioritize education. Financial stress for these students is also compounded by the fact that they often have dependents to support or household bills to manage.

Social isolation and imposter syndrome

Returning to school or entering college as an older or working adult can make non-traditional students feel out of place. Surrounded by younger peers who often attend classes full-time, some struggle with feelings of isolation or “not belonging,” which negatively impacts confidence and motivation.

How do virtual resources provide the support non-traditional students need?

Colleges and universities recognize the needs of non-traditional students, but existing services are typically not built with these students in mind.

Most campus models are structured around a “one-size-fits-all” approach, assuming students are available to engage during business hours and have time to commute to campus. But this expectation doesn’t align with the reality of non-traditional learners today.

For non-traditional students, flexibility isn’t just convenient—it’s critical. Colleges that fail to adapt put an already vulnerable group at greater risk of dropping out due to unmet needs. Here are four ways that virtual support services help meet the needs of non-traditional students.

Available anytime, anywhere

One of the benefits of virtual success coaching is its flexibility. It removes the restrictions of rigid hours of availability at campus advising offices for non-traditional students. They can schedule sessions during evenings, weekends, or even odd hours that suit their specific routines.

No need for transportation or childcare

Virtual coaching removes logistical barriers like transportation or arranging childcare. Students can access support services from their living rooms, eliminating unnecessary stress and expense.

Personalized, whole student support

Unlike academic advising, virtual success coaching focuses on the whole student, not just their academic progress. Coaches understand the unique challenges non-traditional students face and offer tailored guidance for managing their personal and professional lives alongside their academic goals.

Building community, virtually

For many non-traditional students, virtual coaching platforms also double as community hubs. Through group video sessions, message boards, and shared resources, students can connect with others who are navigating similar challenges, reducing feelings of isolation.

What does TimelyCare’s success coaching resource offer?

TimelyCare offers industry-leading virtual success coaching services designed to break down barriers and empower non-traditional students. What makes it effective is that we understand the students’ needs and can help them when and where they need it. Here are the advantages that TimelyCare’s Success Coaching offers to colleges and universities:

Expert network: Our coaches are trained specialists who understand the complexities of balancing adult responsibilities with rigorous coursework.
Holistic approach: We address academic concerns while also helping students overcome personal and financial obstacles.
24/7 resources: Whether it’s 9 a.m. or 9 p.m., our platform ensures that support is always a click away.

Our mission is simple—remove the barriers standing between non-traditional students and their success, one step at a time.

Learn more about TimelyCare’s virtual success coaching and take the next step toward success for your entire campus community today.

The Struggle is Real

By Gina Katzmark, Strategic Communications Director, TimelyCare

I celebrated my 40th birthday not with a party but by taking a managerial accounting final. It’s not exactly what I envisioned at 20 years old. Back then, I was laser-focused on becoming a broadcast journalist, counting down the days until I could graduate with my journalism degree and launch my full-time career at my hometown TV station. That dream took me on an impressive journey in television news, moving to new states, making lifelong friends, and ultimately achieving my goal of becoming a news director by the age of 30. It was a career I loved—until one day, I didn’t.

Deciding to change careers in midlife wasn’t impulsive. It was a measured and ambitious choice. I knew that if I wanted to start fresh, I would need to return to school and earn a Master of Business Administration degree. That degree couldn’t come from just anywhere—I needed a strong program with a respected name, a robust alumni network, and a curriculum that would challenge me. But here’s the truth I couldn’t ignore: it wouldn’t be cheap, and it wouldn’t be easy.

First, there was an obstacle I hadn’t tackled in a long time—math. I hadn’t taken a math class since high school and had managed to avoid it during undergrad by passing a college algebra competency test. Instead of calculus or statistics, I opted for logic and computer science courses, anything to steer clear of “real math.” I’d always been a high achiever and wasn’t about to risk ruining my track record with a dreaded C.

Preparing for the GMAT meant confronting my weakest academic link. I hired a private tutor and told him I had never taken a statistics class. My math since college consisted of timing TV news segments and managing budgets with spreadsheets lovingly crafted by colleagues far more fluent in numbers. It was humbling, but with hours of study and my tutor’s guidance, I managed to score high enough on the GMAT. Not stellar, but high enough—and, importantly, I only had to take it once. That small victory gave me a shot of much-needed confidence.

The confidence boost was short-lived. My first semester in the MBA program was a whirlwind. By day, I worked full-time. I took courses like Quantitative Analysis, Financial Management, and Economics at night. My saving grace was our team-based learning structure. My teammates had backgrounds in finance, IT, marketing, and accounting. I took on the role of writer and presentation expert. Together, we made an incredible team, each bringing our unique strengths to the table. But when it came time to take Quantitative Analysis exams alone, there was no team to lean on.

Five months in, I found myself on academic probation. For the first time in my life, hard work and determination weren’t enough to carry me through. Anything below a B in the program was considered failing, and I was barely hanging on. I felt like a fish out of water and was too afraid to ask for help. Vulnerability wasn’t something I was comfortable showing, and I couldn’t spare an hour to visit a tutoring center during the workday. I didn’t know where to turn, so I struggled alone.

Looking back, I wish I’d had access to a flexible resource like virtual success coaching. It’s exactly what I needed at that moment—a lifeline to meet me where I was. The convenience and discretion of online support would have allowed me to ask for help without fear or judgment. Instead, I pushed through by sheer force of will, eventually earning my MBA alongside my classmates. I even received an award for an outstanding strategic marketing plan. But it didn’t have to be that hard.

Now years later, I want to say what I couldn’t admit back then, “It’s OK to ask for help.” You don’t have to suffer in silence, and you don’t have to figure it all out alone. Whether it’s virtual success coaching, mental health support, or tools to manage stress, there are resources designed to catch you before you fall. Life will throw challenges your way, often when you least expect them. But no matter how overwhelming they seem, help is closer than you think.

The post From Struggling to Success: Supporting Non-Traditional Students appeared first on TimelyCare.

Should Your Virtual Care Partner Use a Directly Managed Clinical Network or Outsourced Providers?

Matt Geracie — Mon, 30 Dec 2024 15:24:41 +0000

Key Takeaways

Virtual care providers rely on either directly managed or outsourced networks, with important differences in control, customization, and the consistency of care provided to campus communities.
A directly managed clinical network offers training, standardized protocols, and personalized services, ensuring support that aligns with the unique needs of students and institutions.
Focusing on culturally competent care, directly managed clinical networks better address the needs of diverse student populations, fostering trust and improving engagement with mental health services.
Consistent oversight of directly managed clinical networks guarantees high-quality care, greater accountability, and better alignment with university goals compared to outsourced networks.
Providing personalized and consistent care through directly managed clinical networks helps improve student mental health outcomes, driving higher retention rates and academic success.

In today’s rapidly changing higher education environment, the need for quality and timely virtual care is more important than ever. According to the Spring 2025 American College Health Association survey, more than 3 in 4 students (76%) report experiencing overall moderate or high levels of stress within the last 30 days, highlighting the need for accessible and comprehensive healthcare support.

With the increasing need and demand for mental health support and healthcare services among students, choosing the right virtual care partner is paramount. Different solutions offer various services and approaches to care. One variable to consider is whether your virtual care partner has a directly managed clinical network or an outsourced provider network.

Understanding Directly Managed vs. Outsourced Provider Networks

When evaluating virtual care options, distinguishing between a directly managed provider network and an outsourced network is critical. Let’s take a closer look at what each entails so that you can decide what’s best for your campus community’s unique needs.

Directly Managed Provider Network

A directly managed provider network means that the healthcare professionals your students, faculty, and staff work with are directly employed and overseen by the virtual care company. Behind the scenes, the company is responsible for hiring, credentialing, training, and quality assurance processes. Directly managed clinical networks can tailor services to meet specific population needs, ensuring that care is consistent, culturally competent, and aligned with the college or university’s mission.

Outsourced Provider Network

With an outsourced provider network, the virtual care company relies on providers employed by a third-party company. This approach might offer a larger pool of healthcare professionals. However, since the virtual care company does not manage them, it often results in less control over hiring and training processes. The lack of centralized standards can lead to inconsistencies in the quality of care and limited customization options.

Key Differences Between Directly Managed and Outsourced Networks

Choosing between directly managed and outsourced provider networks can significantly impact the virtual care experience for students, faculty, and staff. Here are some key differences:

Management

With a directly managed clinical network, the virtual care company partnered with your school has direct oversight of provider credentialing, background checks, and quality assurance. The company ensures that all providers meet high standards and align with its mission and values. With an outsourced network, the virtual care company may have limited control over these processes. Less insight and oversight of a provider network can lead to potential gaps in quality and consistency.

Consistency of Care

Directly managed clinical networks can provide consistent, high-quality care because they adhere to standardized protocols and offer continuous training. This clear oversight of providers ensures that your students, faculty, and staff receive a consistent level of care from the platform regardless of the provider they see. All providers can be carefully vetted and training is customized to support and reinforce the use of evidence-based practice.

Training for Specific Populations

By partnering with a virtual care company with a network of directly managed providers, your campus gains access to providers trained for the population they support. You can set custom protocols that virtual care providers use for referrals, crisis management, and other specific needs. This level of personalization is often lacking in outsourced networks, and services and care might be more generic and less tailored to your campus’ particular needs.

The Difference in the Virtual Care Experience

Personalized Care

Students, faculty, and staff can expect more personalized care tailored to unique needs with a directly managed provider network. Since providers understand the population’s specific challenges and concerns, your campus community receives effective and meaningful care interactions. Providers can be given specific information about campus resources and protocols and follow-up care plans from providers offer detailed messages to reinforce session content and provide guidance between sessions.

Dr. Ginette Archinal, a medical practitioner at Elon University, shares how important it was that the institution worked with a trusted partner for virtual support that focused on quality care.

Cultural Competency

Directly managed clinical networks are also well equipped to provide focused culturally competent training and closely monitor and track campus access to a diverse provider network. By focusing on the needs of a diverse community, this approach fosters a more supportive and understanding environment for effective care, further empowering students to seek care. Research shows Asian, Black, and Multiracial undergraduates access virtual mental health support at higher rates than expected for their demographics, helping address underserved communities effectively and equitably. Cultural competency is essential for virtual care provider networks. It builds mutual respect and enhances communication between providers and patients, improving healthcare delivery with services that meet patients’ social, cultural, and linguistic needs.

Additionally, a recent TimelyCare survey found that students say the choice of a provider and the provider’s identity/lived experience were the most important factors when seeking professional mental health support.

Western Colorado University student Precious Allen discusses how access to a diverse network of care providers is essential to support.

Accountability and Transparency

Directly managed clinical networks offer higher accountability and transparency because the virtual care company oversees provider performance and service data. This oversight allows provider management to promptly address issues or concerns, resulting in a more reliable and trustworthy care experience. Plus, data-driven insights are critical for improving patient outcomes in virtual practices. One example of a data-driven approach is Measurement-Based Care, which enables clinicians to tailor treatment plans, track outcomes, and optimize interventions over time.

Chief Care Officer Dr. Bob Booth shares about TimelyCare’s dedication to delivering high-quality care that positively influences student health outcomes.

Making the Right Decision for Your Institution

With 73% of students reporting that mental health support services increase their likelihood of graduating, finding a virtual care partner to fill gaps in care can be a crucial complement to campus resources.

Directly managed provider networks are ideal for delivering consistent, high-quality care that aligns with your institution’s protocols. While outsourced networks may offer a vast pool of providers, they often lack the direct oversight and control necessary to maintain consistent quality and customization.

Ultimately, choosing a virtual care partner with a directly managed provider network offers advantages in management, care consistency, customization, and accountability. By partnering with a company like TimelyCare that leverages a directly managed clinical network, colleges and universities can ensure that their students, faculty, and staff receive high-quality care tailored to their unique needs and aligned with the institution’s protocols and mission.

Contact TimelyCare today for more information on how our directly managed clinical network can benefit your college or university. Explore the advantages of personalized, consistent virtual care tailored to your institution’s needs.

The post Should Your Virtual Care Partner Use a Directly Managed Clinical Network or Outsourced Providers? appeared first on TimelyCare.

Battling Burnout: The Urgency of Prioritizing Mental Health for Faculty and Staff

Becky Laman — Mon, 29 Jan 2024 15:21:10 +0000

The issue of retention in higher education is not limited to students; faculty and staff are becoming more disenchanted and disengaged with the industry’s standards of professional support, especially when it comes to their mental health.

According to a Healthy Minds study specifically focused on higher ed faculty and staff, nearly two-thirds (64%) of faculty reported “feeling burned out because of work” either somewhat (30%), to a high degree (19%), or to a very high degree (15%). Faculty at four-year institutions (68%) felt burned out more than those working at community colleges (54%).

While higher ed most certainly has – and continues to – respond to the critical need for mental health support among students, it is time to devote some of that support to the very employees who play a crucial role in higher ed’s efforts to support students.

Working in higher ed: Losing its luster?

According to a survey by TimelyCare, higher education’s most trusted virtual health and well-being provider, more than half (53%) of the faculty and staff surveyed have considered leaving their job because of burnout, increased workload and stress, underscoring continuing concerns about employee retention in the aftermath of the pandemic. What’s more, over three-quarters (82%) said they’re experiencing the same or more levels of stress and anxiety than last year.

There are many reasons why supporting faculty and staff mental health should be a priority for colleges and universities including, but not limited to:

Higher retention and better recruitment
Decreased burnout
Improved job satisfaction
Decreased stigma
Positive impact on student success

Retention and recruitment

Supporting faculty and staff should be a key component of an institution’s retention and persistence strategy. According to the TimelyCare survey, 75% of those surveyed said more mental health support would improve job satisfaction.

If faculty are not doing well, students are not doing well either. Faculty and staff are experiencing stress like never before. Every day, colleges are closing, courses are being cut, tenure is being challenged across the country, college presidents are under public scrutiny – all adding to the already prevalent stress of the classroom.

A CUPA-HR survey warns of a higher education retention crisis, as many staff, professionals, and administrators are considering other employment.

Increased support can contribute to higher retention rates and make the institution more competitive in recruiting top talent. For example, Dr. Ellie Sturgis, former director of the Cook Counseling Center at Virginia Tech, said that the university’s partnership with TimelyCare drastically changed the dynamic of their on-campus counseling center’s office by giving their counselors a daily refresh from overwhelming student demand.

Ellie Sturgis, Former Director of Cook Counseling Center at Virginia Tech, shares how partnering with TimelyCare enabled them to retain more of their campus counselors.

“Having access to TimelyCare to help what we’re doing, our ability to retain our counselors has improved significantly. They’re able to go home, refresh, come back ready the next day,” she said. “TimelyCare is a way to expand services, help take care of staff, help take care of students, and help us to do our jobs in a more effective way.”

Regina Ray, an embedded counselor at Virginia Tech, is grateful for the added support and said it makes a difference in the day-to-day.

Regina Ray, Embedded Counselor at Virginia Tech, talks about how using TimelyCare’s services better helps her serve her students.

“To feel supported as an employee is to feel heard. I think Virginia Tech does a really good job of providing support beyond just the workload, acknowledging that our work is very hard at times,” she said. “Giving us TimelyCare, where they’re acknowledging that our students need mental health services, but we also know for you all to fully serve our students, you need them as well.”

Decreased burnout and improved job satisfaction

The demanding nature of higher education jobs, including teaching, research, and administrative responsibilities, can contribute to burnout. Half of higher ed employees work additional hours beyond full-time expectations, according to the latest CUPA-HR survey. Nearly a quarter (21%) of employees who work additional hours put in between one and five extra hours a week.

Another major contributing factor to employee burnout is the mental health of students. The TimelyCare survey found 76% of higher ed employees feel supporting students’ mental health is a job expectation.

The New York Times took an in-depth look at the mental health crisis at a New England college that saw incredible tragedy. A faculty member is quoted saying faculty and staff members “felt as if they were the ‘first line’ responders to students in crisis, but they weren’t trained or equipped for the level of distress.” After the school hosted town hall events for faculty and staff members, a major focal point began to emerge: faculty and staff were burned out. A faculty member who was a member of the school’s emergency task force is quoted saying, “We heard from a lot of faculty that they were just very overwhelmed by the need for students to find a sympathetic ear and some guidance.”

“Faculty and staff are concerned about the level of anxiety and stress that they see that our students are coping with and are always looking for resources for dealing with the stress,” said Dr. Jeanne Natali, director of the Student Resource and Empowerment Center at Tidewater Community College. “I think at the same time, that is starting to burn out the faculty, because it’s becoming more and more prevalent across our students.”

By changing the way faculty and staff can seek and find mental health support, institutions will see enhanced productivity and performance. Employees who feel supported in their mental health are more likely to be engaged and productive at work with better concentration, creativity and problem-solving skills.

Additionally, employees who feel their mental health is supported are more likely to be satisfied with their jobs. This can lead to increased morale, motivation and positive work attitude. Three out of four faculty and staff said more mental health support would improve job satisfaction, according to the latest TimelyCare survey.

Faculty & staff need access to 24/7 mental health care

Virtual health care helps your entire campus community thrive.

Bring TimelyCare to Your Campus

Decreased stigma

Higher education institutions have a role in breaking down the stigma associated with mental health. By openly supporting employee mental health, colleges and universities contribute to a culture that normalizes seeking help and talking about mental health issues.

“Offering TimelyCare to employees is normalizing the need for mental health care for them and makes it easier for them to talk to students about mental health care,” said Erica Coates, assistant director of partnership initiatives, Cook Counseling Center at Virginia Tech. “Opening that line of conversation has a reverberating effect, that is a community-wide, campus-wide, safe conversation. We can’t begin to fathom the impact of that.”

Saad Kahn, a mental health initiatives coordinator at Virginia Tech, said promoting self-care among employees is essential, and ensuring that employees are using these skills all the time, not just in times of crisis.

Saad Khan, Mental Health Initiatives Coordinator at Virginia Tech, talks about how important it is for faculty and staff to have access to virtual care so they can support students to the best of their abilities.

“We need these channels and avenues to take care of ourselves throughout the week so that when the tough situations are coming, we are presenting the best version of ourselves that we possibly can,” he said. “We want to present our best selves to students because when we’re presenting our best selves, we’re able to support them in the best way that we can.”

Positive impact on student success

Supporting employee mental health in higher education is not only beneficial for the well-being of employees but also for the overall success and effectiveness of the institution. A healthy and supported faculty and staff find enhanced job satisfaction, better positioning them to provide effective teaching, mentorship, and support to students – ultimately contributing to greater student success and retention.

Addressing all of these various and complex challenges takes commitment and require the necessary and appropriate resources and support systems:

Promote a healthy work-life balance

Encourage reasonable working hours and discourage excessive overtime. Promote the use of vacation time and ensure that faculty and staff feel comfortable taking time off.

Flexible work arrangements

Allow flexibility in work schedules when possible. Consider options like remote work, compressed workweeks or flexible hours to accommodate personal needs.

Promote community building

Foster a sense of community among faculty and staff and organize social events, team-building activities and support groups to promote connections and a sense of belonging.

Address workload issues

Regularly assess and adjust workloads to prevent burnout. Ensure realistic expectations for work tasks and deadlines.

Leadership support

Encourage leadership to prioritize mental health and model healthy behaviors. Provide training for supervisors on recognizing signs of mental health issues and offering support. Offer regular check-ins and regularly review and update policies related to workload, leave, and mental health support to ensure they are effective and relevant.

Provide mental health resources

Offer access to on-campus counseling services and invest in partnerships, like TimelyCare, that support employee mental health 24/7. Share information about the resources available and encourage employees to seek help when needed.

Davien Armstrong, Case Manager in the Student Resources & Empowerment Center at Tidewater Community College, shares why Faculty and Staff Care helps improve campus health and well-being by expanding access to support.

Training and awareness programs

Conduct workshops and training sessions on stress management, resilience, and mental health awareness. Provide information on recognizing signs of mental health issues and how to support colleagues and students. Most of all, reiterate the resources available to the entire campus community so that faculty and staff feel comfortable and confident relaying that information to students, should the need arise.

Recognition and appreication

Recognize and appreciate the hard work and accomplishments of faculty and staff regularly. Celebrate achievements and milestones to boost morale.

“Our faculty and staff, my colleagues, need to know that there’s someone in their corner who is qualified to help our students navigate these difficult situations. It’s been amazing to have TimelyCare for that exact reason,” said McKenzie Mathewson, associate director of Community Wellness, Western Colorado University. “The fact that they’ve been willing to invest in a service that does have professional mental health providers, both for our students and our faculty and staff, lets us know that they care.”

Prioritizing educators’ mental health and well-being by providing 24/7 accessible mental health resources is critical to creating a supportive campus environment. Contact TimelyCare now to improve the health and well-being of your faculty and staff.

The post Battling Burnout: The Urgency of Prioritizing Mental Health for Faculty and Staff appeared first on TimelyCare.

The Need for 24/7 Suicide Prevention Resources

Seli Fakorzi — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 20:18:07 +0000

Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the U.S. and the 2nd leading cause of death among teenagers. The Mayo Clinic also cites suicide as the second-leading cause of death in young people ages 20 to 24. Additionally, data from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) shows that suicides are more likely to occur between midnight and 4:00 a.m. compared to daytime or evening hours. These stats raise an important question for higher education professionals: does your after-hours mental health care provide the support students need?

Why are 24/7 suicide prevention resources needed?

Crisis can strike anytime

Mental health challenges don’t adhere to regular business hours. People experiencing suicide ideation may feel most vulnerable during the late hours of the night when conventional support services may be unavailable, increasing the risk of a suicide attempt. Having 24/7 suicide prevention resources ensures that help is accessible whenever it’s needed, offering a lifeline during critical moments.

Reduce immediate risk

Immediate support during a crisis can significantly reduce the risk of suicide. Timely interventions, such as talking with a crisis counselor or helpline, provide essential emotional support and coping strategies, helping individuals find reasons to hold on to hope. Research from the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, reveals that lifeline calls leave callers feeling less depressed, less suicidal, less overwhelmed, and more hopeful after speaking with a lifeline counselor.

Stigma reduction

The availability of 24/7 resources sends a powerful message that seeking help for mental health challenges is encouraged and supported. This can contribute to reducing the stigma surrounding mental health issues and encourage more people to reach out for assistance. Despite significant progress in recent years to normalize mental health care, there remains a stigma for some students associated with simply walking into a counseling center or clinic. As such, virtual care that can be accessed at home or in a residence hall helps to remove that stigma, facilitating suicide prevention.

What are the impacts of 24/7 suicide prevention resources?

Save lives

The most significant impact of 24/7 suicide prevention resources lies in their potential to save lives. When individuals in crisis have access to immediate support, a compassionate voice on the other end of the line can provide hope, empathy, and reassurance that someone cares and is willing to listen. This can make a profound difference in a person’s darkest moments, ultimately saving lives. A compassionate voice on the other end of the line can provide hope, empathy, and reassurance that someone cares and is willing to listen, making a profound difference in their darkest moments.

Promote early intervention

24/7 resources promote early intervention, which can prevent the escalation of mental health challenges. By offering support at the onset of distress, these resources can help individuals before their situation becomes more critical, fostering a proactive approach that can lead to brighter outcomes.

Provide continuous support

Mental health issues do not adhere to a 9-to-5 schedule. 24/7 resources and provide a safety net for those who may experience fluctuating emotions and needs, and ensure that individuals have continuous access to support and assistance, reinforcing the importance of ongoing mental health care.

24/7 mental health care saves lives.

Learn more about the importance of after-hours care so that students feel supported.

Learn more

How can colleges and universities implement 24/7 suicide prevention resources?

Collaborate with mental health organizations

Schools can strengthen their support system by collaborating with reputable mental health organizations, like TimelyCare, which offers a 24/7 Crisis Line and integrated crisis support. These valuable partnerships ensure that students and staff have access to professional assistance whenever needed.

Empower through training and education

Empowering faculty, staff, and students with training on recognizing the signs of distress and appropriate responses is crucial for creating a compassionate and understanding school community. By providing comprehensive education on mental health and suicide prevention, schools can build a network of empathetic individuals who can offer support when needed.

Use online resources and hotlines

Recognizing the diverse nature of students’ schedules and personalities, educational institutions can embrace the power of online platforms and hotlines that offer 24/7 support. These resources prove particularly beneficial for college students and those engaged in online learning, ensuring they have immediate access to help and support during challenging times, bridging the gap, and reaching those who may not have access to on-campus resources.

As we commemorate National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, we must emphasize the significance of 24/7 suicide prevention resources. Crisis situations don’t always happen during regular hours, and timely support can make a life-saving difference. By providing accessible and continuous resources, we can work toward reducing the risk of suicide.

Care delivered through telehealth is fast, easy, and efficient. It eliminates wait times, reduces the stigma of seeking care, and is available at the moment a student needs care. Telehealth helps eliminate the days or weeks many students typically have to wait for an on-campus counseling center appointment. With telehealth, the appointment is when and where they need it.

Contact TimelyCare to learn how 24/7 crisis resources can make a difference in the lives of your students.

Want to learn more about TimelyCare’s 24/7 Crisis Line? Visit timelycare.com/crisis-line/

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How Virtual Health Options Fill Gaps in Care for College Students

Noel Geren — Tue, 11 Apr 2023 14:00:00 +0000

The Center for Collegiate Mental Health (CCMH) published its 2022 Annual Report which explores the connections between dropping out of school and seeking counseling services. According to the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), there was a 4.9% increase in college student dropout rates across the U.S. Given these national rates, the report concludes that offering comprehensive mental health support services on college campuses is necessary for the success and well-being of students.

The 2022 Annual Report compiled data from the 2021–2022 academic year from 180 college and university counseling centers, describing 190,907 unique college students seeking mental health treatment; 4,688 clinicians; and more than 1.2 million appointments. The report examined five years of data related to students’ decision to voluntarily withdraw from school during counseling services.

The data sheds light on the difficulties faced by college campus mental health services. For instance, close to 80% of counseling centers indicated that they don’t offer regular extended hours. Additionally, more than 40% of counseling centers reported not being able to retain the majority of students who seek their services. The CCMH report also notes current trends in mental illness among college and university counseling centers:

Anxiety, stress, and depression remain the most common issues reported by therapists but showed a slight decrease in 2021–22. Conversely, trauma assessed by clinicians noticeably increased.
Students are increasingly reporting social anxiety symptoms of over-generalized anxiety, with the largest increase being the concern of “others not liking me.” Although academic distress has slightly declined, it remains higher than pre-pandemic levels. The largest increase in academic distress was in problems staying motivated in class.
The lifetime history of trauma has risen over the past 10 years, with childhood emotional abuse and sexual violence being the leading contributors to this increase.
Despite a declining trend over the past 10 years, “lifetime history of causing serious injury to another person” marginally increased from 5.3% in 2020–21 to 5.7% in 2021–22.

The report highlights the ongoing challenges faced by college students with regard to mental health and the importance of addressing these issues through comprehensive support services. Clearly, an efficient solution that caters to the needs of students without putting undue strain on campus resources is required.

The continued adoption and evolution of telehealth

COVID-19 highlighted the changing nature of healthcare delivery and the crucial role that technology plays. One reason for the growing adoption and evolution of technology in healthcare is the shortage of mental health professionals across the U.S. The federal government designated that almost 40% of people live in areas with a shortage of mental health professionals, with more than 60% of counties without a single psychiatrist.

Recently, at Becker’s Hospital Review’s 12th Annual Meeting, experts on virtual and hybrid care discussed how innovations in digital health platforms are revolutionizing access to healthcare for those who cannot physically attend appointments. They highlighted how automated communication between patients and care teams are helping healthcare professionals monitor changes in a patient’s health and respond promptly.

In a separate American Medical Association (AMA) Immersion Program webinar, experts discussed the future of telehealth, emphasizing the potential for “eyebrow-raising” joint ventures between technology and healthcare professionals to create innovative telehealth solutions that will aggregate technologies to make virtual care easier to use. They predict that there will be greater efforts and investments to improve the usability of telehealth and to expand the number of people who can benefit from this technology.

Both the experts at Becker’s Hospital and AMA agree that telehealth will continue to evolve into a more user-friendly and comprehensive solution that benefits patients, reduces workloads, and lowers costs.

Opportunities to optimize campus health resources

The CCMH report along with the Becker’s Hospital Review and the AMA webinar shed light on the areas where telehealth—and its predicted advances—can address the gaps in campus health resources, making sure that students have round-the-clock and equitable access to care. The report highlights several key statistics for counseling centers that have implications for engagement and retention of higher education students:

79.7% don’t have regular extended hours, leaving a majority of students without easy access to dedicated 24/7 mental health resources.
40.4% don’t retain almost all students who seek services, routinely referring them to external services, meaning that many colleges don’t provide adequate support for students.
70.8% reported that after-hours crisis services are not primarily handled by counseling center staff. The result is that a majority of college students don’t have access to dedicated 24/7 crisis support aligned with the school’s care protocols.
42.4% reported that clinicians regularly engage in remote work, suggesting that students are likely becoming familiar with receiving mental health care in a virtual setting.

Meet students where they already are

A virtual health and well-being solution helps students easily get the help they need, on their own time, all from their phone, tablet, or computer.

Talk to TimelyCare

How telehealth and virtual care support campus health resources

These statistics highlight the potential benefits of telemedicine in providing students with better access to care and filling the gaps in campus health resources. Here are a few practical examples of how colleges and universities can deliver comprehensive and accessible healthcare with virtual options that allow students to receive care from anywhere, at any time, and with greater convenience and affordability:

Improved access to mental health care

Virtual mental health services allow students to receive care from anywhere, at any time, without physically visiting a clinic. This provides more options for a struggling student who can’t attend an in-person appointment because of, for example, a scheduling conflict. With virtual mental health services, students can access support online, via a phone or computer, at a time that works best for them.

Expand services and diversity

Virtual care allows students to access a wider network of mental health professionals, giving them more options for treatment and a diverse range of mental health providers. This is especially beneficial for underrepresented student groups. Virtual care can also allow students to choose from various therapeutic approaches to find the one that works best for them. This expanded network and variety of options make it more likely that students will find a mental health professional who can provide personalized care that’s effective and aligned with their specific needs.

More affordable healthcare

By eliminating the need for travel, insurance coverage, and other costs associated with in-person care, virtual health options can make healthcare more affordable for college students. And for students who live off campus, virtual health options mean they can receive mental or medical attention from the comfort of their own homes, saving money and reducing stress.

Greater convenience

With virtual health options, students can easily schedule appointments and receive care from the comfort of their own home or dorm room. And, students who can’t afford to miss a day of classes to see a doctor can schedule a virtual appointment during a free hour in their day or evening without having to leave campus.

Better coordination of care

Virtual health options allow for easy communication and coordination between students, virtual healthcare providers, and the campus care team. For example, a student who needs in-person support but struggles to coordinate their schedule can receive support from the virtual care team to coordinate the in-person referral.

Improved outcomes

By allowing students to receive care in a timely and convenient manner, virtual health options can lead to better health outcomes and improved overall well-being. Students with chronic health issues, for example, can receive virtual appointments with specialists and receive a timely diagnosis, leading to better management of their symptoms and improved overall well-being.

Health experts agree that we’re in an era of digitally enabled care that combines in-person and virtual care models to provide flexible, cost-effective, and clinically appropriate healthcare. And national surveys among physicians and patients show “high rates of satisfaction among telemedicine users.” As a result of these trends, accelerated and accentuated by COVID-19, telehealth is revolutionizing how higher education delivers healthcare services.

Increasingly, colleges and universities are integrating virtual care solutions into their campus services by offering after-hours support, providing continuity of care by sharing records and collaborating, offering advanced mental health care through psychiatric services connected to the school rather than external/community care, providing crisis support, and alleviating the burden on overwhelmed campus resources. Telehealth has become an essential part of the solution for using technology to improve care access and experience for college students.

How can TimelyCare help your college or university fill gaps in care?

TimelyCare can enhance the overall wellness of college students by providing them with convenient access to virtual medical and mental health care. To achieve this, we have created a hybrid care model in collaboration with campus health resources, offering a comprehensive range of virtual services that include mental health counseling, on-demand emotional support, medical care, psychiatry, health coaching, basic needs support, guidance for faculty and staff, and digital self-care content.

Our virtual telehealth services allow educational institutions to use technology effectively to address gaps in care and provide 24/7 support, ensuring that students receive continuous care. With both virtual and in-person options available, colleges and universities can create a comprehensive healthcare ecosystem that makes it easier for students to access care and reduces the burden on overworked healthcare providers. By utilizing TimelyCare‘s integrated telehealth solution, students can avoid costly hospital and urgent care bills and receive timely, effective care. With a focus on high-quality, high-touch care delivery, TimelyCare offers peace of mind to campus administrators, healthcare professionals, students, and their families.

Learn how TimelyCare‘s hybrid care model, delivered through telehealth and virtual services, can enhance your campus health resources. Contact us today.

The post How Virtual Health Options Fill Gaps in Care for College Students appeared first on TimelyCare.

What TimelyCare’s URAC Accreditation for Telehealth Means for Colleges and Universities

Dr. Bob Booth — Tue, 01 Nov 2022 17:03:05 +0000

As part of our commitment to high-quality care of college students, TimelyCare recently received URAC accreditation for Telehealth. We are proud to be one of only 37 healthcare organizations, and the first virtual care provider focused exclusively on college and university students, to actively hold this accreditation status. URAC is the independent leader in promoting healthcare quality by setting high standards for clinical practice, consumer protections, performance measurement, operations infrastructure and risk management. URAC is also recognized as the leader in telehealth accreditation.

In addition to the high standards that URAC holds for healthcare quality, TimelyCare decided to pursue this accreditation because our mission is to improve the health and well-being of college students through virtual medical and mental health care. It demonstrates our team’s commitment to quality care, enhanced processes, patient safety, and improved outcomes. As a result of going through this process, we developed an organizational framework for continuous quality improvement that meets the demands of the market and exceeds industry standards.

To help provide more context on what URAC accreditation for Telehealth means to TimelyCare and our college and university partners, we’ve put together some of the most frequently asked questions about the accreditation.

Partner with a URAC-accredited virtual care provider

TimelyCare is the first virtual care provider focused on higher education to earn URAC accreditation in Telehealth.

Talk to TimelyCare

What is the URAC accreditation process like and how long does it take?

Before we submitted our application for accreditation, TimelyCare established and implemented organization-wide policies and procedures that addressed 41 core standards.

These standards are related to:

Risk management
Operations and infrastructure
Consumer protection and empowerment
Performance monitoring and improvement
Telehealth operations
Patient encounters
Clinical care
Reporting performance measures

It took approximately one year to complete and resulted in over 165 policies and procedures being established across the organization.

After this, our application was submitted for review to see if we met the in-person validation review standards. Once this was completed, the URAC Accreditation Committee reviewed our blinded application and made the final recommendation to award us with the Telehealth accreditation. The accreditation process took just under six months to complete.

When did TimelyCare become accredited and how long does the accreditation last?

On September 16, 2022, TimelyCare was granted full accreditation pursuant to “Telehealth, Version 3.0: Consumer-to-Provider and Provider-to-Consumer Programs.” This award is effective for three years.

How does TimelyCare keep the accreditation?

Near the renewal timeframe, we will be reviewed again to ensure that we demonstrate continued compliance with URAC’s Telehealth program standards.

In addition, we must be in compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations throughout the entire period of accreditation.

We must also maintain compliance with the URAC Accreditation Application Agreement. This requires that our company provides organizational updates to URAC for material changes that may affect certain areas, such as accreditation status, notice of any federal or state actions, and complaints.

How does accreditation set TimelyCare apart within the industry?

URAC accreditation means that the care we deliver is enhanced because it’s supported by a quality improvement-oriented culture that seeks best practices. Our policy and procedure development promote patient safety and decrease risk to our partner organizations. The key performance indicators (KPIs) we established monitor our care delivery for patients to ensure best practices are maintained. As the first virtual care provider focused exclusively on college and university students to hold the URAC accreditation, it reinforces to our partner institutions (and competitors) that TimelyCare is the best-in-class virtual care provider for higher education.

How does this accreditation for Telehealth benefit TimelyCare and enhance care moving forward?

Our patient-centric playbook integrates a common language and standardized processes, policies, and metrics throughout our care network. This enables providers to move faster as they deliver quality care to patients.

By validating privacy, security, and safety technology requirements at TimelyCare, health outcomes are improved through the strategic delivery of patient access, engagement, and value. The accreditation also enhances our credibility as a healthcare provider, which in turn enhances our contracting power with providers to assure our public/private payers and stakeholders.

Looking long-term, the standards we’ve put in place as part of the accreditation process help to prevent, protect, and manage liabilities from the perspective of risk management. Additionally, TimelyCare has a roadmap for ongoing improvement to our healthcare delivery system to ensure a strong foundation for streamlined processes and systems.

How does URAC accreditation benefit colleges and universities?

At its core, URAC accreditation shows our college and university partners that we are committed to the health and well-being of their students. Through the process, we’ve demonstrated that we meet best practice standards for quality care, enhanced processes, patient safety, and improved outcomes.

When a college or university partners with TimelyCare, campus leaders can trust that students are receiving care from credentialed medical and mental health providers. They can trust that our team is engaged in the care being delivered, focused on positive health outcomes, and driven by patient satisfaction. The accreditation proves to higher education that we’re also committed to the privacy of patients.

With URAC accreditation for Telehealth secured, what’s next for TimelyCare?

As an organization, we support more than 1.5 million students in the U.S. We are committed to maintaining and improving the quality for the patients we serve. Our goal is to provide quality of service for every virtual care encounter, whether it’s emotional support or urgent medical concern. To ensure best practices with our providers, TimelyCare’s Quality Assurance Program is evaluating future accreditation opportunities we will seek to further our commitment to our patients.

If you’re looking for a best-in-class virtual health and well-being solution for your college or university, TimelyCare is trusted by over 200 institutions across the country. Contact us to get a customized quote for your school.

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