Welcome back, Gators! We are excited to see campus come alive as we gear up for the start of the fall semester. As you dive into the new semester, prioritizing your health and well-being is crucial for academic and personal success. We put together a list of essential tips, along with some UF resources, that can help keep you energized, focused and feeling your best.
Plan balanced meals
Nourishing meals are important for college students, as they fuel both mental and physical performance. Limited time due to classes and activities can make meal planning a challenge.
Aim for a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains. Try one of the dining halls that has a variety of vegetable and protein options to get at least one balanced meal a day. If you choose to prepare meals, meal prepping can save time and ensure you have nutritious options on hand, even during busy weeks.
Did you know the University of Florida Student Health Care Center offers nutrition counseling at no cost to students?* Learn more about how to get started with our nutritionist.
*The student health fee covers any patient financial responsibility for currently enrolled students.
If you or a fellow Gator are having trouble securing nutritious food. Consider visiting the Hitchcock Field & Fork Pantry. Students can visit the pantry once per week to secure free staples such as bread, nonperishable canned items, frozen meats, bread, and seasonal produce from the Field & Fork Farm and Gardens.
Stay hydrated
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, doing so may consequently prevent unclear thinking, mood changes, overheating, constipation and kidney stones. Aim for about 8 cups or 64 ounces of water each day. Carry a reusable water bottle and set reminders if needed to keep your hydration levels up. Look out for the water bottle refill stations across campus!
Practice good hygiene
Did you know regular handwashing can keep you healthy and prevent the spread of respiratory and diarrheal infections? Germs can spread from person to person when you touch your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. While washing hands with soap and water is the best way to get rid of germs, using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol is helpful when soap and water are not readily available.
Get regular exercise
While it’s understood that exercise is great for your health, it’s important to know how widespread its impact is to your overall well-being.
“Exercise benefits the cardiovascular system (blood pressure, blood sugar levels, stamina), cognition, sleep, mental health, cancer risk, longevity and more,” said Dr. Jay Clugston, a sports medicine provider at the Student Health Care Center. “It can also be done almost anywhere with little to no cost.”
Try to incorporate 150 minutes of physical activity into your weekly routine, whether it’s a daily walk, a workout at the gym or participating in intramural sports. UF has many offerings for getting active while having fun and meeting new people. Check out UF RecSports to learn more.
Prioritize sleep
Getting enough sleep is vital for both your daily life and academic success. It keeps you alert in class, aids in retaining information and impacts your cognitive functions, such as decision-making. Sufficient sleep can also boost your energy, improve your mood and fortify your immune system, helping you stay healthy and at your best.
How much sleep should you get? It is recommended to establish a consistent sleep schedule and aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night. For more resources about sleep hygiene and strategies, check out UF GatorWell.
Manage stress
College is filled with new experiences, challenges and responsibilities. Amid the hustle of classes, exams and social activities, managing stress becomes crucial for maintaining mental and physical well-being. Doing so effectively can help you stay focused and productive, enhancing your overall college experience.
Stress management techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation or yoga can help you manage stress and improve your health. GatorWell offers information and strategies for stress management and mindfulness. If you want or need additional mental health services, the Counseling & Wellness Center (CWC) offers individual counseling, group counseling, educational resources and crisis support.
Stay connected
Social support is important for emotional health, so make time in your schedule for social activities. UF offers so many opportunities to meet new people and spend time with your social circle. Check out some of the offerings below:
- Find a new club to join on GatorConnect
- Join an intramural sport league with RecSports
- Get connected and involved on campus with Student Involvement
Don’t be afraid to ask for help
UF’s campus offers a variety of different resources to help you with any question you may have or any challenge you are facing. Take advantage of the resources offered on campus as they are designed to support you during your time as a student.
U Matter, We Care
U Matter, We Care connects students to resources and programs focused on health, safety, and holistic well-being. If you or a Gator you know is experiencing uncertainty, distress let us know by submitting a Care Concern.
Not sure where to start? Check out the UF Campus Resources Guide.
For faculty & staff
You play a crucial role in supporting student health and wellbeing. To assist students effectively, consult this referral guide for directing and referring them to appropriate resources. For students in distress, use this quick reference guide to help you recognize, respond to, and refer those in need.