Dear colleagues,
Working in academic medicine is immensely rewarding, but it’s no secret that it comes with challenges. The long hours and high-pressure environment can take a mental and emotional toll. As we enter Mental Health Awareness Month, I want to take a moment to emphasize the value of taking care of ourselves and one another.
There are a range of mental health and wellness resources for students, faculty and staff, including:
- Employee Assistance Program
- University Counseling Services
- TimelyCare
- SOM Wellness Committee
- VCU Recreation and Well-Being
This month and always, I hope you can prioritize time to rest, relax and recharge, and seek help if you need it. Our people are our most valuable asset and we shall make sure that we can take care of one another. I look forward to partnering with all of you to sustain a supportive and healthy environment in which to work and learn.
Kind regards,
Arturo P. Saavedra, M.D., Ph.D.
Dean, VCU School of Medicine
Executive Vice President for Medical Affairs, VCU Health System