Accessing support during the holidays with TimelyCare

From: Hokie Wellness

The holiday season can be fun and festive for many, but it can also be difficult. Challenging emotions can arise, whether due to “holiday blues,” sentimental memories, or stressful interactions with relatives. TimelyCare services provide coverage across the entire country, so even out-of-state travelers are able to access support.

TimelyCare is a virtual health and well-being platform available 24/7, 365 days a year, at no cost to Virginia Tech faculty, staff, and non-student wage employees.

With TimelyCare, employees can access an unlimited number of health coaching sessions. From topics such as time management and coping with stress, to sleep hygiene and nutrition planning, support from professionals is only a few clicks away.

Once registered, TimelyCare offers several Self-Care Journeys, or a collection of videos, infographics, and short articles on certain topics, with suggested practices. Employees who may experience grief during the holidays can explore the Self-Care for Loss Journey, which delves into emotions of grief and uncertainty to better find stability after major life transitions.

Employees have access to immediate support using the 24/7 TalkNow feature. Not only can you access the feature for yourself, but you can also use it to help someone you are with. The average wait time for TalkNow support is under six minutes. We recommend you register with TimelyCare in advance to take advantage of the resources when you need them. 

You can also access 12 free counseling sessions through TimelyCare. If you utilize all appointments, contact Hokie Wellness for information regarding additional options. Students* also may utilize the TimelyCare platform. To access these options, sign in with your @vt.edu email address on the TimelyCare app or website and then select the Provider Care tab.

Employees with benefits who prefer face-to-face options for mental health support can use the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) through their insurance provider. Up to four free counseling sessions are available per issue, per plan year. Visit the EAP webpage for more information and instructions on how to access services.

If you don’t know where to start or are seeking additional or alternative resources for support, you may schedule an individual consultation with a member of the Hokie Wellness team. We meet with employees at no cost, either in-person or online.