University has just started and a lot of young people are excited to leave home for new opportunities and experiences. However, how can you remain healthy at university?
Getting and exploring a new environment and city as well as meeting new people and making new friends. It sounds like an amazing time.Nevertheless there are many mundane aspects to consider when moving away from home for the first time. This includes registering with a new local doctor and finding your local sexual health clinic.
If you are a first year university student you should consider registering with a doctor as especially in the first weeks of university. As you might be more susceptible to illness and medical advice. This has got numerous reasons including the activities linked to starting university, such as cheap and unhealthy food, high consumption of alcohol, stress, tiredness, lack of sleep and the convergence of a big amount of people from various locations. Students end up with a number of illnesses such as having headaches, fever and general discomfort which is often refered to as the “freshers flu”, due to the aforementioned factors.
In this case registering with a new doctor is advisable and make sure you stock up your flat or housing with medical esentials such as basic vitamins, painkiller, personal hygiene products and first aid kits, as they will ensure that you have got self-medication options ready in case you do experience symptoms of illness and you want to prevent going to the doctor and save time.
Here are 4 tips for new students:
1) Register
Register with a local doctor as soon as possible, especially if you spend more time at your new university than at home. So in case you should get the fresh flu in your first couple of weeks of university you receive emergency care and access health service. You can register at any local doctor of your choice and it is best to check your university website for the health centre attached to it.
2) Vaccinations
First year students, up to the age of 25, are eligible for the NHS vaccination programme. If you are just about to leave for university make sure you contact your doctor and ask for the Men ACWY vacine. Again, because you will have a higher risk in the first weeks of university, thus you should make sure you are safe before you start your studies.
3) Contraception
It is always good to be prepared, especially as a student at university. Contraception and condoms are free from any GP. Research your options to ensure you can enjoy your time but remain safe!
4) Preparation
Yes, it is more likely for you as a first year student to get ill but you can prevent it by:
- Healthy Eating
Eat everything in moderation but do not forget that your body is going to thank you for vitamins. - Get Enough Sleep
Sleeping well, although may be difficult as a fresher, is going to help to maintain your metabolism and it is essential for your physical and mental wellbeing. - Keep Fast Food to a Minimum
Eating junk food may taste good and be a cheaper option but it can take a toll on your body. Also, do not forget that what you eat is just as important as when you eat. - Exercise
Do not just sit in lecture halls and the library. Get your friends together and go to the gym or for a run and you will feel better and be more productive.
