College is a time for exploring your independence and growing into your own. But what if you needed to call the dentist to set up an appointment by yourself? Would you feel dread, annoyance, confidence or uncertainty?
Each person enters college with a range of experiences. Maybe you’ve been in charge of your own health and wellbeing for a while, or maybe you’ve always had a parent manage your appointments and healthcare needs. Either way, there is no better time than the present to start taking more ownership over your own health.
There are many aspects under this perhaps daunting pursuit, but there are also many resources available to you on campus. Team Thrive is here to help you navigate your health care needs while at AU.
Thrive Wellness Center offers a range of healthcare services, including mental and physical. If you want to learn more about their location, hours of service, and how to make an appointment, you can visit their website here.
Now onto our tips for how to stay diligent about your health!
#1: Understand Your Body
- Make nutritious choices
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- Focus on eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein
- Limit processed and sugary foods
- Learn about balanced meals and how to fuel your body
- Exercise
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- Incorporate some form of physical activity into your routine
- Find an activity you enjoy (and maybe even a friend to do it with!) such as yoga, running, strength training, or walking. It doesn’t need to be intense—just consistent!
- Sleep
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- Prioritize good sleep hygiene: try to get 7-9 hours of sleep a night
- Try to maintain a consistent sleep schedule
- Create a relaxing bedtime routine
#2: Practice Preventive Care
- Get Regular Check-Ups: Even if you feel healthy, regular doctor visits are important for things like vaccinations, screenings, and general health checks. Many colleges offer free or low-cost health services.
- Know Your Health History: Be aware of any family health conditions, as genetics can play a role in your health. Be sure to share this with your healthcare provider.
- This tip is especially important—family history is vital information to know each time you visit a healthcare provider.
#3: Develop Healthy Habits
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially if you’re active or have long study sessions. You need to hydrate before you die-drate!
- Practice Self-care: Make time for activities that help you recharge, like hobbies, spending time with friends, or relaxing. Maintaining a balance between work, study, and personal time is key.
#4: Know When to Ask for Help
- If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unwell, don’t hesitate to seek help from the Thrive Counseling Center or one of our qualified medical professionals. There’s no shame in needing support, whether it’s for physical or mental health. Sometimes you may need more support and guidance than friends can provide, which is why counseling can be such a valuable resource.
- Although taking responsibility for your own health necessarily implies being more independent, this doesn’t mean you have to do everything alone. Getting help and guidance from parents, mentors, and friends can help you feel less overwhelmed and make the next steps clearer.
#5: Stay Educated
- Be proactive about learning about health and wellness—whether through reading, attending workshops, or talking to health professionals. The more you know, the better equipped you’ll be to take care of yourself.
- Try to avoid getting information from unreliable sources like TikTok or Instagram. Online discourse can be a great way to find community and support, but it cannot replace an appointment with a healthcare professional.
Speaking of counseling, the same five tips above can be applied to the realm of mental health. Understanding your body and mind, exercising regularly, sleeping well, practicing habits that prevent burnout or stress, maintaining self-care, and knowing when to reach out for help and support are all key practices for sustaining mental wellness. In our next edition of Wellness Wednesdays, we will explore mental health in greater depth.
While this article is not a comprehensive list of all the ways in which you can take ownership of your health, they are a solid foundation to start with. Oftentimes, it is much easier said than done. We may cognitively know what is best for our health and our independence but putting it into practice can be challenging. Remember that doing so is a continuous process–it takes time, patience, and persistence. Small, consistent choices make a big difference over time. It can be as simple as adding a bowl of fruit to your meal at the Caf or going on a walk around campus with friends. Eventually, you will see how your life and health can improve with mindful, informed practices.