Tag: AB Wellness Center

Have a Teenager Going Off to College? Take These 3 Health Steps Before They Leave

Have a Teenager Going Off to College? Take These 3 Health Steps Before They Leave

Summer has passed. Now, it’s time for your not-so-little child to fly the coop and brave the world of higher education.
Sending your child off to college can be stressful for both you and the upcoming freshman. From scheduling classes and familiarizing yourselves with the college town, prepping for life after high school can seem a bit for overwhelming and chaotic. This can lead to certain important aspects being forgotten — like your child’s healthcare while they’re away from you.


Below are a few health steps to follow as your child moves onto higher education.

1. Discuss dosage and the dangers associated with medication: For most teens, parents/guardians typically handle any medications that are prescribed. But, not when they’re on their own. Talk to your teen about the dangers associated with mixing medications with one another – over the counter or not, and the effects that prescriptions can have when mixed with drugs and alcohol. Reading dosage instructions on over the counter or prescribed medications should be taken seriously as well. For your daughter, talk with her about how antibiotics cancel out the effectiveness of birth control.

2. Send them off with the proper health information: It may be helpful for your teen – and give you some relief – if they have all health-related information typed up or programmed in their phone. Be sure to included insurance information, a list of current prescriptions and dosages, medication or other allergies, urgent care name, number and address and contact info for the campus health center.

3. A first aid kit will come in handy: Your teen will probably think your overpacking for them, but at some point, that last minute first aid kid will be needed. Be sure to include band aids, gauze, antibiotic ointment, ice packs, a digital thermometer, acetaminophen and any other items you deem necessary. If you want to add a little something extra, create a ‘sick’ kit for when your teen turns under the weather. Soup, crackers, tea bags and Pepto Bismol may just be what your kid needs to feel at home while they’re sick at college.

These are just a few helpful tips that will help with you and your child’s transition. The last tip would be to trust that you have taught and guided your teen into a smart college student. Remind your freshman if they have any questions related to their health or prescriptions that you are only a phone call away! For any serious medical concerns about your child going off to college, you should consult with their doctor for more information.

Is your freshman headed to Alderson-Broaddus?
The AB Wellness Clinic is located on the ground floor of Burbick Hall, making healthcare services convenient for every Alderson-Broaddus student, faculty and staff member. For more information, please stop by or call 304-457-0400.

Prepare Your Child for a Safe School Year with These Tips

Prepare Your Child for a Safe SCHOOL YEAR with These Tips

This year has certainly been a challenging one. With the spread of COVID-19, Americans have had to make changes and adjustments in their day-to-day life. From losing their job or working from home to limit the spread, many have had to make sacrifices to keep themselves and loved ones safe.

Now, it is back-to-school season, and many are on edge about returning to “normal”, or more so adjusting to a new normal. Both students and parents/guardians are going through the emotions and thoughts that are “let’s get back to school” but also “how do we keep our kids safe?”

As the school year is quickly approaching, here are some tips on how to ease your mind and prepare your child for a safe semester.

 

  1. Prepare your child for a new set up.

Many school districts are implementing new regulations to keep students, teachers, and staff safe and well. School rooms and lunch areas may look different with safeguards in place. It’s probable that students will not be able to gather or converse next to each other and after school activities may be limited as well. Explain to your child that these procedures are only to limit and prevent the spread of COVID-19. These new changes may be difficult for your child to adapt to, but it’s important that they understand the reasoning behind the regulations.

 

2. Promote mask wearing.

The CDC recommends that everyone wear a mask or face covering to limit the spread of COVID-19. Masks may slow the spread of the virus and keep people who may have the virus and do not know it from transmitting it to others. Because of the CDC recommendations, many school systems require that students, teachers, and staff wear a mask when in the building. This can be frustrating to students, especially younger children. Explain to your child that mask wearing is a necessity for their safety and their family’s. There are tons of masks available with various prints and designs to accentuate your child’s style. Perhaps, allow your child to choose a few of their favorites for the school year.

 

3. Educate your child on social distancing & proper hygiene.

As schools begin to open, physical distancing from others will be a top priority for school administration. Like mask wearing, you should educate your child on the importance of social distancing. If you’ve been following the CDC guidelines, social distancing should not be new to your child; however, it may be difficult for them to grasp in a school setting. Explain that physical distancing is just as critical in school as it is in a grocery store and will keep them, their friends, favorite teachers, and family safe.

Regular hand washing should also be encouraged, especially since school is back in session. Send your child to school with their own personal hand sanitizer and explain that they should use it often when hand washing is not available.

 

4. Listen to your child’s concerns.

This school year can be scary for many. Parents have their concerns about their child’s safety and education. But understand that your child also has their own worries. If your child is expressing concern, listen and try to ease their worries. Also, it should be noted that some school districts are allowing students to take courses online. This may be an alternative option to consider that can benefit your child and your family as well. 

 

There’s no doubt that 2020 has been quite a year for the books. And with the increasing number of COVID-19 cases in the U.S., many are still left uncertain about the rest of the year and the following years. With that said, many are preparing to adjust to a new set up — jobs, income, home care and school.

We hope these tips will help you prepare for the upcoming modified school year.

5 Tips for a Healthy Finals Week

5 Tips for a Healthy Finals Week

Most students take final exams seriously. After all, final exams reflect a student’s performance for the semester’s coursework and are a sign that holiday break is in the near future.

But late-night study sessions, skipping meals and eating not-so-healthy quick snacks can really play a role in your academics. Think of it this way — if you’re not feeling your best (sluggish, exhausted, etc.) then you won’t perform your best (acing those tests)!

But no worries, Alderson Broaddus’ Wellness Center has tips on how to stay healthy and motivated while preparing for finals.

 

  1. Sleep, sleep and more sleep!

Sleep is so important, especially when you’re preparing for an upcoming exam. According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, a restful sleep improves learning, attention, and problem-solving ability. Young adults should get between seven and nine hours of sleep each night. During finals week, try not to disrupt your normal sleep routine by pulling all-nighters.

2. Eat right, feel better.

Eating a well-balanced meal and foods that boost productivity will become your study buddy as you tackle exams. Avocados, nuts, berries and dark chocolate will give you that extra brain power every student need during exam week.

 

3. Chill out.

It might seem that you have to constantly be on the grind with studying, but that’s not true. You don’t want to burn yourself out before the day of the test. Be sure to take 50 to 90-minute rest periods in between each study session.

 

4. Stay hydrated.

During finals week, it’s unwise to overindulge in coffee and energy drinks as it’s not good for the body and typically leads to an energy crash. Instead, it’s recommended to drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day. Water is good for you and will give you the energy you so desperately need!

5. Get movin’!

In between study sessions, take a walk, hit the gym for some light cardio or take a yoga class to relax. Just get those bones moving and the blow flowing! Exercise will help you focus and give you an energy boost!

Finals week is a stressful time, but don’t let unhealthy tendencies get in the way of you passing those tests! With these tips, you’ll be rejoicing over the holiday break with good grades and a happy body and mind!