As severe storms batter the Carribean the Florida coast and menace other southeastern states, coming right on the heels of Hurricane Charley several weeks ago, the thoughts of many Penn students turn to their families and friends who remain in that part of the country.
Keeping up with competitive classes and intensive extracurricular activities and athletics can be difficult at the best of times. Throw in the emotional stress of worrying about the health and safety of loved ones, and you have an undeniably difficult situation.
Fortunately, Penn offers many resources for support during these troubling times. Make yourself aware of what is out there, and how you can use it if you need it.
Primarily, help is available through the Office of the Vice Provost for University Life. In addition to Counseling and Psychological Services, Student Intervention Services is there in the event that you are concerned for yourself or a friend.
If it's late at night (between 9 p.m. and 2 a.m.) and you feel like talking but you want to speak anonymously to a peer, the Reach-A-Peer Helpline is available. The number is 215-573-2RAP and someone is ready to listen.
There is nothing shameful in asking for help. It readily available, but often you must take the first step.
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