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1. Get a checkup before school starts
“The family doctor can determine if medications are required if teens have a chronic condition, and also check for any boosters, such as chicken pox or hepatitis, and for vaccination against human papillomavirus (protection against cervical cancer) if they did not receive it in high school,” says Grace Park, a doctor in South Surrey, BC.
This is also a great time for teens to discuss contraception and any other sexual health issues with their doctor.
2. Scope out counselling resources on campus
Yes, the first year away is exciting, but it can also be stressful. Many kids struggle with new workloads, being away from the support of their families, and with a new social scene.
“It’s also the age at which some fairly serious things like bipolar disorder or depression can first emerge, and being in a new environment can certainly exacerbate the onset of a lot of mental health issues,” says Nellie Perret, a learning skills counsellor and educator at the University of Toronto. “Anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, and dependence issues, like alcohol and drug abuse, really do become major issues at university, there’s sadly no question that this is the case,” she adds.
What helps? Besides maintaining a wide-open line of communication with their parents, students should take advantage of on-campus psychologists and counsellors, resident advisors and academic dons, all of whom are available to listen to new students’ concerns and offer advice and assistance.
3. Go out for extracurriculars
Joining a sports team, special-interest club or an issues-oriented group will help new students make friends and feel less alone. Staying active will also help teens avoid the “freshman 15.”
4. Watch out for weight gain
Many university and college kids are living alone for the first time, so what do they do when they’re hungry? “They grab the cheapest and easiest options: the fast-food outlet,” says Diana Steele, a registered dietitian in Vancouver. Steele suggests students try to think about their food choices before leaving for class. “Pack healthy snacks, and if they really need to buy food fast, go to a deli and get a sandwich and salad or a rice bowl with vegetables and lean protein,” advises Steele.
Other factors that can cause students to pack on the pounds include stress, reduced activity and not enough sleep. “Make the effort to join a campus gym,” suggests Steele, “or reserve a time for a workout and stick to it, just like a dental appointment.”
Partying doesn’t help, either, as alcohol is loaded with empty calories. Steele recommends students pick their party nights, set a limit and drink water between every drink to help avoid overdrinking.
Originally published in the Walmart Live Better Back to School 2013 issue.
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