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| College students face a variety of potential health issues |
College can have a negative effect on health
Many students find starting college has a negative effect on
their health. Between socializing and keeping up with classes online they become too busy to eat right or sleep well. College students face
new levels of stress about tests and project deadlines.
In addition, contagious
illnesses spread much faster in the relatively close quarters of college
campuses. Students should be aware of the biggest health issues they face, and
follow the recommendations below to stay healthy.
Stress is a primary concern for college students
Stress and anxiety are primary concerns as students become anxious over grades,
adjusting to a new life on campus, and making new friends. They may become
depressed and even have suicidal thoughts. College campuses' student health
offices can advise on how to deal with specific issues, and help students find
counseling if necessary. For any stress level, exercise helps to release
endorphins, a feel-good hormone and stress-fighter. Even simply taking a
30-minute walk a few times a week will help students relax and bear stress more
easily.
Unhealthy Eating
Eating disorders are among the top concerns among students in all college
campuses nationwide. Students may resort to eating to cope with high stress,
avoid eating to conform to cultural expectations of body image, or may develop
disordered eating because of other underlying issues. Dieting often leads to
serious eating disorders, such as bulimia and anorexia, which may have
long-term health effects on young people's bodies.
Many students simply make poor food choices that lead to
unhealthy weight gain. Eating sensibly is the key to preventing eating disorders
and keeping healthy. Students shouldn't overindulge on junk food, but eat
healthy meals three times a day.
Alcohol Abuse
Excessive drinking (particularly among
underage
students) remains a great concern as students continue to suffer alcohol
poisoning and other issues related to binge drinking. Depression and alcoholism
often go hand in hand and may become serious health concerns as young people
develop addictions. Excessive drinking may lead to other risky behaviors, such
as sexual violence and drunk driving. Students should never drink alcohol in an
unsafe environment and avoid drinking to the point of heavy intoxication.
Illness
Sexually
transmitted diseases may spread fast among students engaging in unsafe sex.
In many cases, students become infected from casual encounters at drinking
parties. Young people should avoid sex with unfamiliar partners or at least
protect themselves by using condoms.
Students get colds, flu, and respiratory infections in the fall that often last
until spring as the germs are passed around throughout the student body. During
the cold weather season, students are advised to get flu shots. Many campuses
offer them free of charge or at a great discount. Simple preventative measures,
such as washing hands, taking vitamins, and getting adequate sleep will also
help boost immunity and speed recovery.
College life is stressful, no doubt about it. However, these are the best years
for young people to learn to be independent and to make responsible decisions.
Students can enjoy the college years best by making healthy choices and
avoiding health risks that can have long-term effects on their lives.
Author: Marina Salsbury
Image credit: Morguefile
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