Heading to college is the first step that many people take when they learn to be more independent. You can meet new people, try new things, and not answer to mom and dad. This freedom can come at a cost, however. If you’re used to a family and school routine to keep you organized and healthy, then it can be challenging to adjust. While the fun and excitement of college freedom is always enjoyable, you’ve also got to know how to stay healthy when going to college.
Freshman Flu
With so many students coming in from all over the country and even the world, the Freshman Flu is something to think about when arriving at college for the first time. You don’t know who is suffering from a cold or illness. So, by being confined in such close quarters, such as dorms, there’s always the chance of it spreading.
While it doesn’t seem like there’s a lot you can do, eat healthily, drink lots of water, and try not to overindulge in the free drinks laid out at every party you attend. Sometimes, it can be impossible to avoid the Freshman Flu. Still, by taking sensible steps and treating any noticeable symptoms with medication, including aspirin or flu medicine, you’ll be able to mitigate the effect it has on you early on.
Speak to Counsellors
Mental health is another huge thing that can affect new students. Many issues come with arriving at college for the first time. These can include loneliness, failing to adapt to new environments, and also feeling overwhelmed by the scope of work you need to do.
Students suffering from these mental health issues will take solace in the fact that on-campus counselors are there to help them work through problems and come out the other side with renewed satisfaction for their situation. While college isn’t for everybody, it’s still a great experience that you should try before deciding to go back home. If you need to speak to someone for any reason during your time at college, know that someone is there to help you.
Recovering From Injury
You are likely to suffer an injury at some point. You might slip on the icy ground on the common; you might take a nasty fall down the stairs at a party. When you experience this injury, bed rest, painkillers, and even gods bubba could be all you need to get back to your best.
Like anything, you should only do so in moderation so that it doesn’t affect your studies. You can also ask your professors whether you can view the class remotely, especially if your injuries have made it near impossible to get around independently.
Healthy Education
Staying healthy at college doesn’t mean holding yourself up in your dorm, lifting weights, doing push-ups, and living solely off protein shakes and room-temperature water. You still need to get out and socialize, but as you don’t have your parents there to wait on your beck and call, it’s worth knowing how to stay as healthy as possible when you get to college.
