Self-care Resources

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The UFT Member Assistance Program understands that time is precious, which is why we have compiled a list of self-care resources that you can utilize when the time is right for you. 

You can also contact the UFT Member Assistance Program for more support by emailing mapinfo@uft.org or calling 212-701-9620.

New Yorkers can call the COVID-19 Emotional Support Hotline at 844-863-9314 for mental health counseling.

Learn about how MAP can support you »

Managing stress and anxiety

  • Nature Therapy
    Studies have shown being outdoors can lessen blood pressure, sharpen your focus, improve your mood, lessen depression and boost your immune system.
  • Calm is offering a free two-month trial of its mindfulness app to New York City employees.
  • Understanding stress
    Learn about how stress affects your body and how to handle it.
  • Understanding stress, a quick guide
    When managed successfully, stress can help you be your best. But unresolved stress can lead to emotional and physical problems. Take stock: how do you handle your stress?
  • Stress assessment
    Answer these 21 questions to help yourself understand how you're doing.
  • Recommendations for minimizing stress
    Get 19 quick tips for handling your stress.
  • Jabumind is a free mindfulness app created just for teachers. Join teachers from across the world in a 10-week meditation program, or browse their library of guided meditations to help reduce stress, regulate emotions, and improve quality of sleep.

Virtual resources

  • NYC Well Hotline
    Call 888-692-9355 
  • NYS Office of Mental Health COVID-19 Emotional Support Helpline
    (Call 844-863-9314) The Emotional Support Helpline proves free and confidential support, helping callers experiencing increased anxiety due to the coronavirus emergency. The Helpline is staffed by volunteers, including mental health professionals who have received training in crisis counseling.
  • Disaster Distress Helpline (DDH)
    Call 1-800-985-5990 or text "TalkWithUs" to 66746 for crisis counseling and support for anyone in the U.S. experiencing distress or other behavioral health concerns related to any natural or human-caused disaster, including public health emergencies.
  • Safety planning for domestic violence survivors
  • Trauma counseling for active (not retired) AFT members: 27 hours of counseling for a number of specific events either both on and off the job. This is for Active members, not retirees. Specific events include: aggravated assault, sexual assault, injured in a natural disaster, contracted an infectious disease at work, bullying/harassment at work, domestic violence, victim of gun violence, secondary trauma from gun violence at work.
  • Grief counseling specific to COVID-19 for AFT members: For members who have lost an immediate family member to COVID-19, or for the immediate family of an AFT member who died of COVID-19. In this case the member can be active or retired. This is two hours of counseling including an assessment. Counseling done remotely via phone, webinar or text. 
  • Virtual resources for those struggling with substance use
    Online supports that might be helpful for recovery.
  • Meditation and mindfulness apps
    Practice meditation and mindfulness with these apps for your cell phone.
  • Book apps
    If you have a library card, download these apps to borrow free books from your local library.
  • MAP's Classroom Cafe podcast
    This podcast from the UFT Member Assistance Program is meant to inspire you and motivate you.

Self-care

Source URL: https://www.uft.org/your-rights/safety-health/environmental-health-and-safety/disease-information/coronavirus-hub/self-care-resources