Tips to Offer Your Teen on Staying Healthy at College
Even if you've dreaded it for years, this is likely the big moment your teen has been waiting for—it's time to go to college. They've waved good-bye and run off with their new roommates. They're finally on their own, but where does that leave you? Probably worrying about them out there all alone.
We know you want to help, so we've creating a tips sheet for you to give them as they depart on their journey. They may laugh as you hand it to them, but trust us, they'll appreciate it later. Here it is (click here for the printable version).
Tips for Staying Healthy at College
The Stress Challenge
It's all on me! You can feel stressed out by having so much to do. Social relationships with friends, roommates or dating partners may add pressure too. You'll have less stress if you:
- Work with a schedule: Keep a daily calendar (electronic or paper), with times of all classes, activities, due dates for assignments and personal plans noted. A quick glance will help you feel more in control.
- Exercise regularly: Working up a sweat helps you work out pent-up stress. Head for the gym or a run or a bike ride at least three times a week.
- Take a break: Plan daily time for hanging with your friends or just relaxing.
The Sleep Debt Challenge
I'm so tired! Just as money debt hurts your financial life, sleep debt (having less than about eight hours sleep each night) hurts your physical and mental life. When you're in sleep debt, you feel more exhausted, stressed and less able to perform well. If you sleep only six hours a night, the National Sleep Foundation says you build up a sleep debt of 14 hours in just one week! To get your sleep cycle back on track:
