Health and Wellness

Make your physical and mental health your top priority, no matter what! Take advantage of these resources.

Student Health and Counseling
Student Health and Counseling (SHCS) provides students with high-quality healthcare and wellness services, including primary care, counseling and psychological services, drop-in appointments for consultation, wellness programs, immunizations, and more. All registered UCSF students have access to SHCS, but note that you must enroll in the Graduate Student Health Insurance Plan (GSHIP) to get medical, mental health, dental, vision, prescription, and travel insurance coverage. 

Establish a Supportive Community
Reaching out to your peers and making friends is important for your well-being, and having a strong support network and building collaborative relationships – inside and outside of your discipline – will ensure your success at UCSF and beyond. Here are some tips to get you started.

Fitness and Recreation
UCSF Fitness & Recreation operates three fitness centers at UCSF, outdoor trips, and programs in partnership with other UCSF departments. Students can join the program that's right for them at discounted rates. Be sure to check out the highly popular Rec Pass!

Student Disability Services (SDS)
SDS is available to assist students with obtaining the services and accommodations required to ensure equal access to all aspects of the UCSF experience. Whether you have a temporary or lasting disability, see the disability accommodations process for graduate students.

Ergonomics & Human Factors
The Ergonomics & Human Factors program can help ensure that you are working safely, efficiently, and comfortably in your lab or work area. Even changing the type of pipette you use can make a big difference! 

Leaves of Absence
Life's "little interruptions," like having a baby, getting injured or sick, or having to take care of a family member with a serious illness, don't usually mean that you can't finish your degree. If you find that you need to take a leave of absence for a qualifying reason during your PhD program, be sure to reach out to your program administrator and academic adviser. They can often help you stay on on the path to graduation, even when you encounter a bump in the road. Read more about the policies around taking a leave of absence.