As a student at Boston University, maintaining good health is crucial for academic success and overall well-being. With a wide range of resources available on campus, it can be overwhelming to navigate the best ways to prioritize your health. Here are five tips to help you stay healthy and thrive during your time at BU.
Key Points
- Stay up-to-date on preventive care and vaccinations
- Prioritize mental health and seek support when needed
- Make healthy food choices and stay hydrated
- Get regular exercise and prioritize sleep
- Take advantage of BU's student health resources and services
Tip 1: Stay Current on Preventive Care
Regular health check-ups and vaccinations are essential for preventing illnesses and detecting potential health issues early on. Boston University’s Student Health Services (SHS) offers a range of preventive care services, including vaccinations, screenings, and health consultations. Make sure to schedule an appointment with SHS to discuss your health needs and stay up-to-date on recommended vaccinations, such as the flu shot and meningitis vaccine.
Vaccination Requirements
BU requires all students to provide proof of certain vaccinations, including measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap), and varicella (chickenpox). Additionally, SHS recommends that students consider getting vaccinated against human papillomavirus (HPV), hepatitis A, and hepatitis B. It’s essential to review BU’s vaccination requirements and consult with SHS to ensure you’re in compliance.
| Vaccination | Recommended Age |
|---|---|
| MMR | 2 doses, 4-6 years apart |
| Tdap | 1 dose, 11-12 years old |
| Varicella | 2 doses, 4-6 years apart |
| HPV | 2-3 doses, 11-12 years old |
Tip 2: Prioritize Mental Health
Mental health is just as important as physical health, and BU offers a range of resources to support students’ emotional well-being. The BU Counseling Center provides individual and group therapy sessions, as well as workshops and support groups. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the Counseling Center if you’re struggling with stress, anxiety, or other mental health concerns.
Mental Health Resources
In addition to the Counseling Center, BU offers other mental health resources, including the Behavioral Medicine Clinic and the Center for Anxiety and Related Disorders. These resources provide specialized support for students struggling with anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns.
Tip 3: Make Healthy Food Choices
Eating a balanced diet is crucial for maintaining energy levels, supporting immune function, and promoting overall health. BU’s dining halls offer a range of healthy food options, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices. Make sure to take advantage of these options and limit your intake of processed and high-sugar foods.
Healthy Eating Tips
To make healthy food choices, try to include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources in your diet. Aim to cook at home using fresh ingredients, and limit your reliance on takeout and fast food. Additionally, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
Tip 4: Get Regular Exercise and Prioritize Sleep
Regular exercise and adequate sleep are essential for maintaining physical and mental health. BU’s Fitness and Recreation Center offers a range of exercise classes, including yoga, Pilates, and cardio workouts. Aim to get at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per day, and prioritize getting 7-9 hours of sleep each night.
Exercise and Sleep Tips
To make exercise and sleep a priority, try to schedule these activities into your daily routine. Consider joining a fitness class or workout group to stay motivated, and establish a consistent sleep schedule to improve the quality of your sleep.
Tip 5: Take Advantage of BU’s Student Health Resources
BU offers a range of student health resources and services, including SHS, the Counseling Center, and the Behavioral Medicine Clinic. Don’t hesitate to reach out to these resources if you need support or have questions about your health. By taking advantage of these resources, you’ll be better equipped to maintain your physical and mental health throughout your time at BU.
What health services are available at BU?
+Boston University offers a range of health services, including primary care, counseling, and specialized medical services. Students can access these services through Student Health Services (SHS) and the Counseling Center.
How do I schedule an appointment with SHS?
+To schedule an appointment with SHS, students can call (617) 353-3575 or visit the SHS website to book an appointment online.
What mental health resources are available at BU?
+Boston University offers a range of mental health resources, including the Counseling Center, the Behavioral Medicine Clinic, and the Center for Anxiety and Related Disorders. Students can access these resources by calling (617) 353-3569 or visiting the Counseling Center website.
By following these five tips, you’ll be well on your way to maintaining good health and thriving during your time at Boston University. Remember to prioritize preventive care, mental health, healthy food choices, regular exercise, and sleep, and don’t hesitate to reach out to BU’s student health resources and services if you need support.
