College Survival Kit ~ Issue 5
Crosby Scholars Senior Program
Living a Healthy Lifestyle in College
Tips to Stay Healthy
1. Eat Right
2. Exercise
3. Get Enough Sleep
4. Don't Smoke
5. Avoid Caffeine and Sugary Drinks
6. Wash Your Hands
7. Get a Flu Shot
8. Drink Lots of Water
9. Relax
10. Wear Sunscreen and Avoid Tanning
11. Establish a Routine
12. Don't Over-Commit
Real Talk: College Students and Drug Abuse
- Stress - as students face the high demands of coursework, part-time jobs, internships, social obligations and more, many turn to drugs as a way to cope.
- Course Load - more students than ever are taking stimulants to help them stay awake long enough to study or complete assignments by their due dates. All too often, these prescription drugs are obtained without a legitimate prescription
- Curiosity - college students are exploring many new aspects of their lives in personal and professional realms. It's not uncommon for that self-exploration to dip into drug experimentation.
- Peer Pressure - college students who are surrounded by other people experimenting with recreational and performance-enhancing drugs are more likely to try these substances for themselves.
Consistently Abused Drugs on College Campuses:
- Alcohol - makes up the vast-majority of substance-related problems on college campuses. Drinking is often socially acceptable, recognizing a problem in college students who drink can be difficult.
- Adderall - the "study drug," and other stimulants are increasing in popularity among college students who are facing pressure to meet all of their academic requirements.
- Marijuana - more students are turning to pot as their drug of choice as legislation tips in favor of legalization.
- Ecstasy - also known as molly, is common at raves and concerts as it is the "party drug."
Resources
- School Counseling - many college health centers offer free counseling sessions to students on campus. They can also refer you to other helpful resources.
- Campus Security - they are there to be an ally and keep you safe. Know how to get in touch with campus security if needed.
- Student Organizations - often, there are student led organizations to provide awareness about the drug and alcohol issues on campus. These organizations often put on sober events for students to attend.
- College Health Center Website - check out your schools health center website for information and resources.
- Student Mentors - many colleges offer student mentors to help guide students. Utilize your mentor to find helpful campus resources.
Sensible Decision-Making
2. Make sure you have enough information about your options - Gather information from multiple reliable sources.
3. Evaluate your options - Look at each option to see if it is in line with your goals and values. What are the risks of each choice? What is the possible outcome?
4. Make the best choice for YOU - This means making an informed choice that makes sense for your circumstances, and a choice whose consequences you can live with.
Crosby Scholars Community Partnership
Email: seniorprogram@crosbyscholars.org
Website: crosbyscholars.org
Location: 2701 University Parkway, Winston-Salem, NC, United States
Phone: 336-725-5371
Facebook: facebook.com/CrosbyScholars
Twitter: @CrosbySr2017