SUNY Annual Report 2019

COMMUNITY AND PEOPLE Cultivating a Culture that Encourages as Sense of Community and Inclusion Creating a Culture of Mental Well-being Among Optometry Students The rigors of health-related fields of study—both academic and clinical—are considerably stressful. In 2019, SUNY College of Optometry enhanced the services and support of mental health and wellbeing for our students making significant strides to eliminate barriers that hinder students from seeking the help services they need. Highlighted Activities: Hosted campus-wide workshop with the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene to create a support system to address mental health wellness on campus.

As an important issue across all SUNY campuses, Dr. Guilherme "Gui" F. C. Albieri represents the College on the SUNY System-Wide Student Mental Health and Wellness Task Force program and serves on the Clinical Subcommittee to recommend clinical services delivery models, psychiatry, legal issues, and best practices for addressing mental health wellness on campuses.

Developed an online platform for students seeking support privately which includes videos on how to manage stress, conquer test anxieties, and promote healthy study habits. Ongoing programs include mental health counseling and suicide prevention services, an interfaith prayer and meditation room, Tea Chat workshops that bring the community together, and the 11th Floor Safe Zone for students.

26 SUNY Optometry