Wellness tips for a new academic year

The start of a new school year is ripe with possibilities. It’s the perfect time to start strong in all aspects of your life as a student. As you begin another school year, consider ways to build community, focus on staying healthy, tap into campus resources and create good habits.

CU Boulder offers many ways for students to find support through programs, departments and other resources. Whether starting your first year of undergrad, wrapping up your graduate degree or anywhere in between, you can find support to help you thrive academically and personally.

Dealing with change

Each year of college comes with changes and sometimes challenges. In some cases, the change is significant, like living with roommates for the first time or transferring from a different school. Other times the change is small, like starting a new on-campus job or adjusting to a new class schedule. Whatever the transition, you can take steps to prepare for possible changes and find support when needed.

If you need help preparing for the new academic year, consider meeting with a peer wellness coach. Peer wellness coaches are trained students that can help you navigate academics, create a routine, connect with campus resources and access peer-to-peer support.

If you are stressed or homesick, it’s important to stay connected with a support system. This can include family, friends, your RA or a mental health professional at Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS). They offer free drop-in sessions, consultations, workshops and interpersonal process therapy groups that can help you navigate a number of concerns.

Staying active

With the start of a busy school year, finding time to stay active and connect with others can feel challenging. Setting aside time to be active can benefit not only your physical health, but your mental health as well. This year, consider joining an intramural sports team, participating in a fitness class at the Rec Center, signing up for small group training courses or finding a student organization where you can meet others who share your hobbies.

Often, students who get involved and feel like they belong at CU Boulder experience improved well-being and academic performance. Check out all the Rec Center has to offer to have fun and take care of yourself.

Academic support

Start strong academically by creating a routine and staying on top of class expectations. Avoid falling behind by attending scheduled classes, reviewing your syllabi, going to office hours and completing assignments on time. College is rigorous, and it can be challenging to catch up if you fall behind. Ask for help early and tap into tutoring resources to avoid a problem later in the semester.

If you find yourself struggling with the stress of school, you can find support from a dedicated mental health provider within your college and school through the Embedded Program. They’re available to support you with a variety of concerns.

Staying healthy

Germs can spread quickly, especially on college campuses. You can do your part to stay healthy by practicing good hygiene and other healthy habits. Remember to wash your hands frequently, especially before eating and after using the restroom. It’s also important to drink plenty of water, eat balanced meals and get seven to nine hours of sleep each night.

Staying current on vaccines can also help protect you against common illnesses like the flu, meningitis, HPV and more. Wardenburg Health Center provides free flu shots to all CU Boulder students. You can also schedule an appointment to get additional vaccines.

If you do get sick, Medical Services offers primary care appointments for all students, regardless of their insurance plan. You can also stop by the Wellness Suite on the third floor of Wardenburg or order a Buff Box to your residence hall to get free cold and flu supplies, like honey sticks, tea, cough drops and more.

Make the most of wellness events

Health & Wellness Services hosts a variety of events to help students practice self-care, create healthy habits and find connections on campus. Check out all the .

Get connected with resources

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or struggling, you’re not alone. There are plenty of resources on campus that can help.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis or needs urgent, same-day support, please call Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) at 303-492-2277. You can also visit the Emergency & Crisis Care page for additional resources and support.

Student Wellness Experience

All students are invited to join Health and Wellness Services on Wednesday, Sept. 13 for the Student Wellness Experience. This interactive fair will feature a variety of demos and activities, including painting, F45 and CrossFit, meditation sessions and much more!

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