Here are some basic suggestions for how you can stay healthy
in college.
1. Get enough
sleep. When it comes to balancing busy schedules, students tend to put sleep
low on their list of priorities. Don't do this. Some people can function on
three or four hours of sleep per night, but most people cannot. Without sleep,
you're not going to be able to concentrate well enough to get the most out of
your classes. If you can't always get a good night sleep, work regular naps
into your schedule.
2. Sleep on a
regular schedule. This can be hard for a college student. You may find yourself
getting up early three days a week for your morning class and sleeping in until
noon on the weekends. As much as possible, though, try to stick to a regular
sleeping pattern. Also, try to go to sleep relatively early.
3. Eat sensibly.
College students often gain weight due to late night eating and overindulgence
of junk food. Here are some tips on how to avoid the Freshman Fifteen, and some
college dining hall health tips.
4. Eat breakfast.
Skipping breakfast contributes to weight gain. It also will make it hard for
you to concentrate in class. You don't have to eat a big breakfast; a bowl of
cereal or a cup of yogurt will make you a happier and healthier human being.
5. Eat enough. Many
students have problems with eating disorders, which can be deadly. If you have
serious issues with food, seek help at the campus counseling center
immediately. Here is some information about college students and eating
disorders.
6. Drink water.
Most people do not get nearly enough water. Resist the lure of soda machines
and the unlimited soda at the dining hall and get into the habit of drinking
water. Get a water bottle and carry it around with you.
7. Don't binge
drink. Excessive drinking can lead to addiction or alcohol poisoning. But
there's one undesirable effect of binge drinking that doesn't get talked about
as much: it makes you gain weight! Some students deprive themselves of food
during the week so that they can binge drink on the weekends without gaining
weight, which is a bad idea. Here is some important information about college
student alcohol safety.
8. Work in walking.
You're on a college campus, so take full advantage of walking opportunities!
Even if you have a car, make walking your main form of transportation on
campus. There's no better way to work exercise into a busy schedule, except for
maybe #9.
9. Get a bicycle.
If you go to school somewhere with a decent climate, travel around campus on a
bike. Just remember: get a bike helmet and protective gear too, and ride with
caution. Most college students ride bikes responsibly, but there's always a few
that make drivers question the future of the species.
10. Spend time at
the student recreational center. A big chunk of your student fees is going to
the gym, so take advantage of it! Find an activity that you like, or take a
class. You don't need to spend hours and hours working out to feel the
benefits. Just remember: don't use the gym as a form of procrastination!
11. Get regular
checkups. Your parents probably took care of this for you, but now it's up to
you make sure you see a doctor regularly. You're probably entitled to an annual
exam at the student health center. Ladies, you're probably entitled to an
annual gynecological exam, which you need to start doing now, especially if
you're sexually active.
12. Get a flu shot.
Many schools offer them at low cost. College campuses are absolute cesspools of
germs, so take this simple step to help protect yourself.
13. Learn to relax.
This can be a difficult goal for a college student, but do your best. Learn to
put things in perspective. If you get a C on that test you're freaking out
about, nothing catastrophic will happen. If your school has a stress management
course or exercise courses such as yoga, sign up.
14. Get mental counseling
if you need it. Take advantage of the counseling services on campus. College
students frequently suffer from anxiety, depression, eating disorders,
addiction, and homesickness, and student counseling services are usually well
equipped to help with these issues.
15. Have safe sex.
You've heard this lecture before, but it's a lecture you need to remember.
Always use a condom. Know the physical risks and emotional baggage that can
come with casual and promiscuous sex. Reference (Health Tips)
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