I am notorious for getting sick, just ask my friends and roommates. From bad colds to viruses, when the weather changes, so does my immune system. Thanks to all the times of being sick, I’ve also gotten pretty good at healing myself when I need to, and I have some tips to help you through cold and flu season in college.
Health and Counseling Services
Going to Health and Counseling Services on campus is my first line of defense when I’m feeling sick. They offer flu and mono testing, vaccines, and electronic prescriptions through Wegmans Pharmacy. Last semester when I was feeling especially sick during finals week, I went to Health and Counseling, and they diagnosed me with the flu. The nurses there gave me tips on how to recover quickly and effectively and even got me a coupon for my flu medication. If you ever need to go to Health and Counseling, you can make an appointment online, call the office, or just walk in if it’s an emergency. Be sure to stop in if you’re on campus for a tour!
Hydrate!
I always carry a water bottle with me but rarely do I ever remember to actually drink the water inside the bottle. If there’s anything that’ll help you when you’re sick, it’s staying hydrated. For stomach issues, sip small amounts of Gatorade, flat ginger ale, or hot (decaffeinated tea). For everything else (and in general!), make sure to drink lots of water. Every building on campus has a water fountain or bottle refilling station, so there is never a shortage of places to stay hydrated on campus. In the rare cases that water upsets your stomach, I find drinking plain broth also helps. Pay attention to what your body likes and dislikes and indulge in that.
Rest!
In college, it’s so easy to overwork yourself. When it feels like your workload (coursework and otherwise) is getting to be too much, start to rest! If you can, start going to bed earlier. Catching up on sleep can really help. The more time you allow yourself to rest in your dorm, the faster your recovery will be.
Get By With A Little Help From Your Friends!
Being sick is hard. Being sick with no one around to help is even harder. When your body is fatigued, getting around and doing things for yourself isn’t easy, so ask your friends for help! My friends and roommates are some of the kindest people around, from running to the Cab, our campus grill and deli, to buy me ginger ale or to Wegmans to get me soup and medicine. When your friends ask if you need anything, don’t be shy! They’re there to help you get better faster, and they only want to see you healthy.
I hope all of you stay healthy during your last Winter season before college, and if you’re sick, feel better soon!