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Health & Wellness

Staying Healthy at UMass Amherst

• Get enough sleep – Most college students need eight hours a night. Sleep helps your learning, memory, immunity and mood. Try to get to bed at a regular hour, avoid all-nighters and take a nap when you’re short on sleep to keep your brain and body functioning at their peak.
• Eat healthy – Food is fuel for the brain and body. Whether you’re eating at the Dining Commons or grabbing a quick bite on the run, there are lots of healthy options available; your choices make all the difference. UHS’ nutritionist can help with weight management, sports nutrition, food allergies, diabetes and other issues.
• Exercise – It’s a great way to relieve stress, socialize, feel good about your body and stay or get in shape. Intramurals, fitness centers and recreational facilities on campus are here for you. Remember – even a brisk walk around campus or uptown counts!
• Reduce your risk – If you choose to drink, think about safety. Keep it to one or less per hour. Alternate alcoholic drinks with water or nonalcoholic beverages. Eat before and while drinking. Keep track of what you’ve had. Don’t mix alcohol with other drugs, even over-the-counter ones. Have a plan for getting home or to the party. Get a confidential drinker’s checkup at BASICS.
• Get immunized– You’re around a lot of people and infections can spread quickly. Make sure you’ve had required immunizations before you come to school; talk to your primary care provider or the New Student Immunization Program if you’re missing any shots.
• Have fun and socialize – Life is about balance. Meet new people. Join a club, RSO or peer health. Color outside the lines. Stretch yourself to try new things.
• Stay smoke-free – Don’t start smoking. If you haven’t begun smoking by age 18, chances are you won’t. Smoking is the number one cause of death and disability in the United States. Even so-called ‘social smokers’ and those who hang out around secondhand smoke are at risk. If you do smoke, think about quitting; UHS’ tobacco cessation program can help.
• Protect yourself – Wear a helmet. Dress for the weather. Wash your hands. Use sunscreen daily. Practice safety at all times. Lock your doors, carry a cell phone and let someone know where you are. Don’t drink and drive.
• Ask for help – We all get overwhelmed at times. If you’re feeling down, stressed, homesick or wonder where your life is going, talk to a trusted friend or professor, or call Mental Health Services.