Supporting your grief with compassionate resources.

The holiday season can be a time of celebration, but for many members of our MSU community, it also brings reminders of loss, change, and emotional stress. Grief can surface in many forms—whether related to the passing of a loved one, family changes, financial strain, or the cumulative stress of a challenging year.

If you’re hurting this season, please know you’re not alone. MSU and our local community offer a wide range of support and resources to help you navigate this time with care and connection.

Community Grief Support

Local grief support groups can provide understanding, connection, and a safe environment to share your experience with others who truly understand.
Lost & Found Grief Center offers structured support groups for children, adults, and families at no cost.
👉 https://lostandfoundozarks.com/grief-support-groups/

Mental Health Services Covered Under MSU’s Medical Plans

Your mental health is a vital part of your overall well-being, and MSU’s medical plans include coverage for mental and behavioral health care.

How to Access Care

Use the Mercy Provider Directory to find an in-network mental health provider.
Contact Magers Health and Wellness Center at 417-836-4000 if you need help understanding coverage, receiving referrals, or determining what services may fit your needs.

Mental Health Clinicians at Magers

Magers has licensed mental health providers available to support employees. Appointments are required.
Meet the clinicians:

Zachery Dampler, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC – Psychiatric Practitioner
Austin Boon, M.S., LPC – Licensed Professional Counselor
Cara Love, M.S., NCC, LPC – Licensed Professional Counselor

Mercy’s Collaborative Care Program

Many people experience delays accessing mental health specialists. Mercy’s Collaborative Care Program was designed to expand access by embedding behavioral health experts directly into primary care.

How Collaborative Care Works

Your primary care provider refers you to the program.
A behavioral health team member contacts you within 24–48 hours.
Sessions take place via phone or video.
Psychiatrists and care managers work alongside your provider to develop a coordinated treatment plan.

If you need immediate support at any time, call or text 988.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Free, Confidential, 24/7 Support

Grief can feel overwhelming, and sometimes talking with a professional is an important step toward healing. MSU’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provides free and confidential counseling for employees and household members.

Accessing the EAP

A phone call is required to schedule counseling services:
800-413-8008 #2
The EAP website includes self-directed tools, articles, videos, and wellness resources you can access anytime:
Online access: helpwhereyouare.com
- Username: MSU
- Password: MSU

Financial Stress & High Medical Expenses: The Samaritan Fund

Financial strain can intensify grief—especially when tied to significant or unexpected medical costs. MSU’s Samaritan Fund was created to support employees facing severe financial hardship directly related to high medical claims.

About the Samaritan Fund

The fund helps eligible employees with extraordinary medical expenses. While the application deadline for the current cycle has passed, employees who believe they may qualify are encouraged to reach out throughout the year. HR Benefits can help determine whether applying in the next funding cycle is appropriate.

Learn more about the Samaritan Fund and previous announcements:

LinkedIn Learning Resources on Grief & Change

MSU employees have access to helpful training through LinkedIn Learning. These courses may be especially supportive during seasons of grief:

You Are Not Alone

Grief isn’t linear. Some days may feel manageable; others may feel unexpectedly heavy. What matters is knowing that support exists—professionally, personally, and within your MSU community.

Whether you need counseling, a support group, financial assistance, educational tools, or simply reassurance that help is available, please reach out. MSU is here to support your well-being in every season.

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