I am thrilled to share some exciting news regarding important resources that will be available to our students beginning January 1, 2021 The University System of Georgia (USG) has launched a comprehensive plan to significantly expand student mental health services during the COVID-19 pandemic. The program is being funded by an allocation of the Governors Emergency Education Relief (GEER) fund and will allow every student to have access to support whenever and wherever they need it.

At Georgia Highlands College, we will be able to access the USG program to support the health and safety of our students. As such we will be partnering with Christie Campus Health in our launch of Thrive@GHC. We recognize that the needs of students vary significantly and supports need to be broad in scope and tailored to meet the pressures impacting individuals. Through Thrive@GHC, in partnership with our own campus counseling center, students will have access to the following:

• A 24/7/365 mental health support line for in-the-moment support and linkages to next steps, regardless of time of day or your location
• No cost Telehealth and in-person treatment sessions provided by a diverse network of licensed mental health clinicians
• Virtual Psychiatric Clinics to offer assessment and medication management
• Personal Student Navigators to assist with referral coordination and support
• A Self-directed iCBT program designed exclusively for students
• “The Wellness Hub” which includes an App and an online wellness magazine with educational content, self-help tools and resource links

I am very excited to bring Thrive@GHC to our campus as an innovative way to enhance our mental health services and support our students’ success. I look forward to working with the campus community to ensure that we are doing all we can to ensure the health and safety of our students.

Stay well!

With Warm regards,
Angie Wheelus