The COVID-19 pandemic has made college a more stressful experience for many students, and it has affected their social and mental health. To help navigate these issues, Stevenson, offers the Student Assistance Program (SAP) – a program designed to help students with depression, anxiety, identity issues, substance abuse, and self-esteem. All information shared within the program is confidential and free.  

Lindy Reymann, Assistant Vice President of Stevenson University’s Wellness Center, spoke about the program’s focus, which provides aid to those students who battle issues that interfere with their day-to-day activities. “[SAP endorses] physical, emotional, social, intellectual, and spiritual health,” she said regarding the program’s multi-faceted approach. “Speaking to a professional counselor is sometimes needed to restore one’s health and promote one’s wellbeing.”

SAP was originally implemented in the fall of 2020 by David C. Jordan, Vice President of Human Resources and Title IX Coordinator, with the intent to support the health and wellbeing of students. Although the program was implemented during the COVID pandemic, the active response from the community has shown that the program is here to stay. As there is no end date to this pandemic, the need for SAP is ongoing.

SAP currently offers virtual consults and check-ins via BlueJeans free of charge. The program is determined to work with each student, no matter the circumstances, to ensure everyone has access to the help they need in a comfortable format.

Along with Reymann’s first-hand experience and insight within the program, fellow staff member, and Reymann’s administrative assistant, Christie Sleeth, provided clarity on Stevenson’s Student Assistance Program process. “As a Stevenson student, you can use the SAP to receive in-the-moment assistance from a student care coordinator. The student care coordinator will confidentially assess your problem, assist with any emergencies, and connect you to the appropriate resources,” Sleeth explained. As mentioned for each case within SAP, the student care coordinator will become the student’s dedicated personal point of contact and will keep in touch to ensure students receive the help and resources they need.

Stevenson’s Student Assistance Program is available to all students. The program’s services are available 24/7 by visiting https://portal.bhsonline.com/