Health 101: Caring for Your Body
It can be easy to fall into unhealthy habits as you transition to living on your own. These three tips may help you adjust to dorm life:
· Stay active. Walking to class keeps your body in motion and may improve your physical well-being. Many college campuses also offer free fitness resources for students, including gym equipment, classes, and intramural sports. These activities can help keep your blood pumping while offering an opportunity to meet new people. Be sure to check with your doctor before starting a new exercise routine.
· Make healthy choices. Whether you’re eating at a campus dining hall or cooking for yourself, the best way to keep your nutrition in balance is to focus on fruits and vegetables and limit processed foods. Limit unhealthy snacking, fast food, and eating late at night. Try out some of these easy and healthy college meals instead.
· Get enough sleep. We know all-nighters are part of the college experience, but don’t make them a habit! A full night’s sleep can help improve your academic performance, giving your brain time to process and store all the information you learned that day. Adults age 18 to 60 should get at least 7 hours of sleep a night. (Here are some tips to help you get some rest.)
Health 102: Caring for Your Mind
Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Make time in your schedule for self-care to help you recharge and reduce stress.
Feeling overwhelmed? You are not alone. Lean on family members or friends for support as you adjust to college life. Most colleges have mental health counselors as part of campus health services. EmblemHealth members also have behavioral health resources included in your plan.
Pop Quiz: COVID-19 Precautions
College campuses continue to monitor the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) to help keep students and staff safe. Many schools have immunization requirements to attend classes in person or live on campus. For some schools, that may include the COVID-19 vaccine. Check for emails or information on your school’s website regarding its COVID-19 policies and any precautions you need to take before heading to campus. Visit EmblemHealth’s COVID-19 information center to stay-up-to date with information on vaccines, benefit changes, and testing information.
Extra Credit: Know Your Coverage
Make sure your EmblemHealth ID card and a list of any prescription or other medicines are on your back-to-school packing list.
Many colleges offer on-campus health centers that you can visit if you feel sick or get hurt, with medical staff can treat minor issues or help arrange additional care, if needed. Store the main number in your phone and see if they have an emergency or after-hours number. Check if there are any fees or if they take your insurance so you don’t get hit with any surprise charges. (Note: Always call 911 in a true medical emergency.)
Should you need it, EmblemHealth has you covered with more care away from home. Members have coverage for urgent care, emergency care, and pharmacy needs. Most EmblemHealth plans also have 24-hour telemedicine through Teladoc® for non-emergency concerns. (Tip: Download the app and create your account now so it’s ready if you need it.) Check your plan documents for more information.
Use the "Find a Doctor" tool to search for other local care covered under your plan’s network. You can also call the number on the back of your EmblemHealth ID card for help understanding your benefits or finding in-network coverage near you.
Teladoc and related marks are trademarks of Teladoc Health, Inc. and are used by EmblemHealth with permission.
