Take a seat anywhere near or on campus, and you’ll find that it’s very common to hear students talking about how stressed, anxious, and overwhelmed they are. It’s probably safe to say that each of UC Berkeley’s 38,000+ students has felt unwell at some point in their college career. Thankfully, UC Berkeley provides a wealth of free health resources for students.
The next time you’re feeling stressed, depressed, anxious, hungry, or irritated, take advantage of one of these free health resources. They’re here for you.
Individual Counseling
If you need someone to talk to, try individual counseling. Counselors from University Health Services can help you with academic, career, and personal concerns one-on-one. But best of all? You can get five individual or couple counseling sessions for free, regardless of insurance coverage. Make an appointment here.
Group Counseling
Join one of these skill or support groups if you prefer tackling issues with other people. There are groups for stress management, mindful meditation, people of color, healthy relationships, and more. All groups are free; you just need to be referred by a clinician. Call CPS at (510) 642-9494 for more information.
Health Coaches
Health coaches are professional health educators who provide wellness guidance and advice to increase your personal and academic success. Some topics they can cover are sexual health, healthy eating, and time management. All sessions are free; meet the health coaches here.
Harm Reduction Groups
This group works with students to find the right balance with substance use. Different goals work for different people, and the harm reduction group can help you meet yours. Call Social Services at (510) 642-6074 for more information.
Massage Chairs
If you need a quiet, relaxing 15 minutes to yourself, head over to the 2nd floor of the Tang Center and enjoy a free massage. Chairs are first-come-first-serve.
Mental Health Screening
It can be hard to know when it’s time to talk to a professional. Take an online, anonymous mental health screening to find out if professional consultation will benefit you. Learn more about the screening here.
Pet Hugs
My personal favorite wellness resource at UC Berkeley is Pet Hugs because there’s always a Golden Retriever or two to cuddle. If you’re in need of some puppy love, head over to Sproul on the first Tuesday of each month from 12 pm – 1 pm. These pups are sure to melt away your stress.
Advice Nurse
The advice nurse can help you figure out whether you should see a doctor or utilize another service. If you’re ever unsure about your health, contact the advice nurse at (510) 643-7197 or send secure message via eTang.
HIV Testing
Get tested for HIV at the Tang Center and get your results in 30 minutes. Rapid HIV antibody testing is free and anonymous; testing dates for Spring 2017 can be found here.
REST Zones
We all need more sleep, but sometimes home is too far away. ASUC and UHS teamed together to implement nap pods and locate the best napping spots. Find REST Zones and catch some Z’s here.
In addition to these wellness resources, University Health Services hosts a variety of health campaigns for students and staff. Click here to learn more.