Health-N-You

Do you know about ViSION?

Northeastern’s Violence Intervention, Support and Outreach Network (ViSION) brings together a network of campus and community allies focused on providing prevention response, and education for sexual assault and all types of violence for Northeastern students.  The major on-campus allies are University Health and Counseling Services (UHCS), Office of Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution (OSCCR), Residential Life, the Northeastern University Public Safety Division (NUPD), and the Office of Institutional Diversity and Equity (OIDE).  The network allows students to seek services and support from numerous entry points.

ViSION offers:

• Training and education in prevention and response to sexual assault, interpersonal violence, stalking and hate crimes;
• Access to immediate and confidential medical and counseling services;
• Referral to compassionate and skilled legal services;
• Public awareness presentations; and
• Assistance and support in planning campus organizations’ programming on sexual assault and other violence awareness.

BYSTANDER BEHAVIOR

Being proactive in situations when another person is at risk is known as bystander behavior. Reacting
in situations when another person may be facing harm doesn’t have to be some heroic act or a potentially endangering situation for the person who chooses to do or say something.  Here are some
examples of bystander behavior:

• The gesture of walking a friend home who has been drinking, ensuring that they get home safely;
• Calling for help if someone is very intoxicated rather than letting them pass out with      potentially toxic blood alcohol content levels;
• Stepping in when someone tries to get your friend’s phone number and you know that friend has had too much to drink; and
• Intervening when you see an intoxicated friend leaving a bar or party with someone she doesn’t know.

These are opportunities to act or react and safely change an outcome.

We are all responsible for each other and while speaking up or saying something can sometimes be difficult, ultimately, being proactive means that you’re watching out for your friend, someone’s brother, sister, girlfriend or boyfriend. If you think someone is in trouble, ask them if they’re okay. If
you don’t feel comfortable acting on your own, ask someone else for help—another friend, a police officer, an RA.

The Office of Prevention and Education at Northeastern (OPEN) is looking for student leaders to sustain and broaden efforts around the peer–led Red Watch Band training, aimed at preventing death and injury from serious alcohol intoxication. Contact open@neu.edu for more information.

Opportunities for involvement are also available through ViSION. Contact vision@neu.edu or check out our website (http://www.northeastern.edu/vision/) and learn more about us and how you can get involved in changing the campus community.

Post by: Christine Civiletto, Psychologist, Coordinator of Sexual Assault Services at UHCS

The Final Stretch

As we are all aware, finals are quickly approaching.  Here are a few tips and questions to ask yourself as you come into the home stretch.

Have a paper due during finals week?

• When do you want to have the outline completed?
• When should the rough draft be completed so that you can take it to the Writing Center for review? http://www.northeastern.edu/english/writing-center/

Is your exam cumulative?

• Is there a study guide?
• When are you going to review the previous material?
• Who can you actively study with?
• Avoid that all-nighter by using a planner or calendar to write all this down.

Keep up with your deadlines.

Cross things off as you do them-literally, it feels good!

If you miss a deadline-don’t be discouraged, just go back and figure out how you can adjust and make it happen.

Don’t forget to include healthy habits, such as exercising, eating healthy and recreation into your schedule!

Sneaky. Deceptive. Cunning.Final Part: The therapy appointment

We all wonder what a therapist is going to talk to us about. Will I have to lie on a couch? Do I have to have something to discuss? During initial sessions with students, the behavioral health clinicians at UHCS are asking about appetite and sleep to start screening for depression. We usually try and determine the length of time the symptoms have been present and also if there was a specific time or "onset" that students can recall their symptoms starting. Has this been going on for weeks? Months? Years? Was there a trigger (e.g., death in the family, a major transition) or have you always felt this way? Often students will remark "I can't believe how bad this has gotten" or "how did I not recognize this sooner?" Again - depression can be sneaky.

The most important thing to keep in mind if you think you're depressed is that depression is treatable. Many individuals find that their symptoms begin to lift simply by engaging in some sort of regular talk therapy. However, keep in mind that the form and intensity of therapy can depend on the severity of your symptoms and your commitment to treatment. Scheduling an initial asessment at UHCS is a convenient/effective way to begin exploring what the best course of treatment is for you. These options may include short-term treatment at UHCS, a referral to a community provider for longer-term treatment, group therapy, or perhaps a medication referral.  The role you play in your
treatment is up to you. Remember, this is your life, your mental health, and if you’re not in your own corner…who is? Be an advocate for yourself and work collaboratively – be part of your treatment, not just a receiver of treatment – and if you feel like you could use some support, regardless of the reasons, consider scheduling an initial Mental Health Assessment at UHCS to take the next step forward.

For more information on making an appointment or group therapy click here.

Post by: Owen Wyatt, Behavioral Health Counselor at UHCS

Sneaky. Deceptive. Cunning. Part 4. To ask for help or not?

For certain, reaching out for support can highlight there is something wrong in your life; however, this does not mean there is something fundamentally wrong with you. On the contrary, reaching out for support underscores a desire to grow, enhance your relationships, improve your quality of life, and create lasting change: these are admirable goals. 

Making an appointment with a behavioral health professional is often one task that repeatedly drops on our to-do lists because, in short, it can be difficult to face our own suffering. Understandably, admitting that we may need some support or are feeling stuck can be hard; however, you might be surprised to find out how many people you know are either currently in treatment or have been at some point in their lives. In reality, seeking therapy is normal, emotional suffering is not really an option in life.  We all experience it to varying degrees and we all require support; the question is how long you are willing to endure on your own?

Watch for next week's blog 'The Therapy Appointment'.  

Post by: Owen Wyatt, Behavioral Health Counselor at UHCS

Sneaky. Deceptive. Cunning. Part 3: Be Honest

So, what can be done?  For starters, be honest with yourself – this is the first step toward raising your self-awareness of sneaky, deceptive and cunning depression. You might choose to pay attention to the feedback you're receiving from others.  Have people mentioned your mood lately? Have people pointed out that you're not as active as you used to be? Are you arguing more in your relationships? Irritable? These are just a few of the signs that might help you determine if you should seek professional help.

Other symptoms of depression include: a sense of hopelessness, sleeping too much, sleeping too little, lack of appetite, significant weight change, decreased libido, feeling guilty for no reason, trouble enjoying activities that were once exciting to you, low energy, feeling worthless or guilty for no reason, aches, and bodily discomfort. Perhaps some of these symptoms resonate with you or perhaps you’re tired of feeling this way and wish to do something about it.

Commonly, people will begin to rationalize to themselves "this is just a phase" or "I know I feel off, but everyone must be feeling this way.”  And yet, as the depression worseness, self-blame and rationalization behaviors increase, and thus leads to the development of a far more rigid and negative self-dialogue (e.g., “I should be able to handle this on my own” or “I’m weak”).

To learn more about what you can do if you think you are depressed, watch for next week’s blog or check out information on UHCS website on how to make an appointment.

Post by: Owen Wyatt, Behavioral Health Counselor at UHCS

Sneaky. Deceptive. Cunning. Part 2: Depressed does not mean weak

Those who suffer from depression are not weak; in fact, just the opposite, as depressed persons daily embody the very definitions of strength and resilience. And yet, here again is the cunning of depression: the fortitude and effort required to grind out another day is framed by the depressed person as personal failure. The depressed person often does not believe she or he possesses strengths in any form – their struggle is their fault…end of story. So, not only can depression turn us against ourselves and adequate seeking help to a complete personal downfall, but depression also shields from the depressed person the very strengths utilized to traverse and manage each passing day.

From mild strain navigating daily responsibilities to every task feeling like a Herculean one, individuals with depression exert varying degrees of energy simply to keep their heads above water and meet their daily responsibilities. Consequently, the depressed person’s focus narrows: the goal of each day becomes geared toward fulfilling mandatory requirements, usually responsibilities to others with much less priority given to socializing, extracurricular activities, or down time. Accordingly, opportunities to experience a sense of achievement, connect with others, or even relax are greatly minimized for the depressed person and only further fuels one’s suffering and self-blame.

Watch for Part 3: Be Honest

Post by: Owen Wyatt, Behavioral Health Counselor at UHCS

Tips for a Happy, Healthy & Safe St. Patrick's Day

Saint Patrick's Day is a cultural and religious holiday celebrated internationally on 17 March.  The holiday has garnered a reputation, where celebrations are hallmarked by green beer, day long drinking and celebrating that can exceed comfort levels. To this end, we wanted to take a moment to share some tips about how to reduce your risk if you decide to drink alcohol on St. Patrick’s Day.

If you do decide to drink, follow these tips to reduce your risk:

• Set a goal of how many drinks you wish consume, and stick to it
• Eat a meal before, and ideally while you are consuming alcohol
• Drink slowly, and space drinks to 1 per hour
• Alternate with non-alcoholic drinks
• Avoid mixing alcohol & other drugs (legal or not)
• Avoid going ‘drink for drink’ and playing drinking games
• Watch out for your friends; stay together- especially in new environments!
  

If you are concerned that a friend or someone you are with has had too much to drink,
please keep these things in mind:

DO stay with the person at all times

Do bring the person to a safe and quiet place

DO put the person on their side

DO stay with the person at all times

Do bring the person to a safe and quiet place

DO put the person on their side

DO NOT leave them alone to ‘sleep it off’, you do not know if their condition will worsen

DO NOT give them any food or beverage (except for a small amount of water if they ask for it)

DO NOT put them in the shower

DO NOT give them any medication

Be able to recognize the signs of ALCOHOL POISONING:

What to look for:

• Inability to answer basic questions (Name, date, location)
• Inability to remain conscious
• Inability to control their own body
• Vomiting
• Slow or shallow breathing
• Pale, bluish, or cold skin
• Slow, irregular heartbeat

CALL FOR HELP! On Campus: 617-373-3333 | Off Campus: 911

 

Are you ready for the rest of the semester?

We hope you are ready because it’s time to get back to work!  The next few weeks are critical to success in your classes. 

Not sure where to begin?  We’ve got a great starting place for you:

Reflect on the first part of the semester.  What worked?  What didn’t? Reflecting on previous work will enable you to optimize your study habits for the rest of the semester. 

• For each of your courses, think about how you’ve approached the assignments and the
  assessments.  List what worked and what didn’t.
• Look for trends or patterns in your approach.
• Based on your evaluation of what worked, set goals for your approach to your work in each course.

To give yourself a little help in meeting your goals, you may want to:

Organize: Take an hour out of your day to review your syllabi and figure out exactly what you need to do in the next five weeks.  Enter the deadlines in your planner or calendar.

Prioritize: Check Blackboard for the grades that you’ve earned so far and the assignments
that are due in the final weeks of the term

• Are you satisfied with your grades? 
• Do you need to start spending extra time on a certain class?
• Would a tutor help?
• What are the most pressing and important assignments?    

Being reflective now will put you on the road to finishing the semester strong.

 

Posted written by Lindsay Northup-Moore, Learning Disabilities Specialist

Sneaky. Deceptive. Cunning

    Sneaky. Deceptive. Cunning. These are the first few words that come to mind when I think of the clinical condition so commonly referred to as depression. To begin, depression is “sneaky” because many people often do not even know when they're depressed: sometimes it takes family members or friends to point out that someone is "just not acting like themselves" or "seems so down lately." Second, depression is “deceptive” because the symptoms of the disorder can go undiagnosed for weeks, months, and in some cases, even years. And lastly, depression is “cunning” because once established, it manages to convince those afflicted that they are to blame for the weight of their burdens – that the increasing degree of difficulty in their lives is somehow their fault – and that they alone are responsible for fixing the problem(s).            

    Watch for Part 2: Depressed Does Not Mean Weak

Post by: Owen Wyatt, Behavioral Health Counselor at UHCS

The dreaded stomach bug….Norovirus

Norovirus has made its usual appearance here in Boston this winter. It is the most common cause or stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea and vomiting in the United States. This highly contagious virus spreads from person to person due to poor hygiene. 

To avoid spreading the virus, wash your hands frequently. Clean contaminated surfaces like toilets and sinks.

The good news is that often the illness only lasts a day or two.  It is important to get plenty of rest, take over-the-counter pain relievers to reduce fever and aches, and avoid close contact with others for the first few days. Drink plenty of fluids, and if you aren’t able to eat much solid food, try to drink fluids such as juice, soup, or sports drinks.

GYT ‘get yourself tested’ at UHCS

Knowing you should get yourself tested and actually getting yourself tested for STIs(sexually transmitted infections) are two  different things.  Maybe you don’t know where you can go to get tested.  Maybe you don’t know how you’re going to pay for it.  Maybe you’re worried that if you ask your health care provider to test you, your parents will find out.

You can get tested quickly, easily and confidentially at UHCS. You can choose to have the bill
for the lab tests sent to your health insurance company or UHCS offers low-cost Self-Pay STI Testing.

Chlamydia + Gonorrhea 
(urine, vaginal or urethral test):           $20

HIV  (blood test):                                  $20

Syphilis  (blood test):                            $20

To get tested for STIs at UHCS, call or visit us for an appointment with one of our medical providers. If you would like to have Self-Pay Testing performed, let the medical provider know during the appointment. You can pay for your test(s) at the front desk of UHCS with a Husky Card, credit card or debit card.

Thank you to students who stopped by UHCS table at Health Fair today!

Thank you to those who stopped by the UHCS tables at the National Residence Hall Honorary Take 5 health fair today in the Curry Student Center. For those of you who missed out on the table, we jumped right into learning ways of staying active and healthy on campus with a few fun facts and pedometers.

Did you know?

An average person's stride is approximately 2.5 feet long.

Taking 10 thousand steps is equal to 5 miles

Increasing your activity throughout the day can give you a stress relief, boost you to a better mood, and create a healthier lifestyle.

Challenge: try taking 500 more steps in your week, even if it's a quick 20 minute walk everyday!

Hope to see you at the next tabling event!

Written by Elizabeth Cilia, MS, ATC

Extreme Cold Weather

Winter is here and frigid cold temperatures are predicted over the next few days. Some safety tips to consider:

• Dress warmly. Wool is better than cotton.
• Wear a hat, a scarf or knit mask to cover the face and mouth, sleeves that are snug at the wrist, mittens (they are warmer than gloves), water-resistant coat and boots (no flip flops), and several layers of loose fitting clothing.
• Minimize outside activities. Exposure can lead to frostbite. Frostbite is an injury to the body that is caused by freezing.  Frostbite causes a loss of feeling and color in the nose, ears, chin, cheeks, fingers, and toes.   Seek medical care if you think you have frostbite.  



For students living off campus

• Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature both during the day and at night.
• Think twice about using alternate heating sources. These can be dangerous if not used properly. When utilizing alternate heating sources, such as your fireplace, wood stove, or space heater, take the necessary safety precautions.  Keep the heat sources 3-feet away from anything that can catch fire. Turn off space heaters when going to bed or leaving the house.
• Know where to find the fire extinguisher; ensuring everyone knows how to use it properly. Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors.
• Be a good neighbor. Check with elderly or relatives and friends who may need additional assistance to ensure their safety.

Don't wait-vaccinate!

Boston is experiencing an increase in the number of confirmed cases of flu. The state of emergency declared yesterday allows the city officials to organize resources for preparedness plans. 

The flu is pretty miserable and it is something we can help prevent. UHCS has plenty of flu vaccine available so please take advantage of this and get vaccinated now!

The flu vaccine is FREE for NU Students. No appointment is necessary. For more information about the flu vaccine at UHCS, click here.

Mental Health Awareness Week 2012

Students and UHCS hope to raise awareness of mental health issues November 12-16th. Stop by our table or attend Group Therapy 101 to learn more.

Stay informed about Hurricane Sandy

Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) encourages smartphone users to download the free ping4alerts! app. This app is available free of charge for iPhone and Android phones and receives severe weather alerts from the National Weather Service and emergency information from MEMA based on the user's location. 
Learn more at http://www.mass.gov/mema/mobileapp. 

 

"Did you see the email from OPEN with the brief questionnaire about alcohol use?

It's Alcohol Awareness Week at Northeastern and the questionnaire you received is known as the AUDIT-C. It is used to identify 'at risk' alcohol use. Check out Northeastern's online alcohol personalized feedback program http://www.northeastern.edu/open/eCHECK/ or contact OPEN anytime for a confidential 'check in' about your alcohol use. For a full lineup of events during Alcohol Awareness Week, go to: http://www.northeastern.edu/open/events

Meningitis Outbreak

Questions answered about meningitis outbreak by the Dean of the School of Pharmacy. http://www.northeastern.edu/news/2012/10/3qs-meningitis/

Who really needs sleep?

The night before an exam many students will try to stay up all night to study. The next day after surviving the all-nighter they end up asking themselves, who really needs sleep?  We all
need sleep. It is essential to our health.  A new report about the effects of sleep on health is discussed here.

Recovery Week at NU

Join others to find out what recovery is all about. Check out the great events all week. Sponsored by UHCS and OPEN.

Reducing Alcohol Related Consequences

Over consumption of alcohol can result in unplanned and potentially dangerous outcomes that carry both short and/or long-term consequences such as unwanted sexual contact or sexual assault, physical violence, and possibly even death. Over consumption can lead to:

1. Potential alcohol poisoning
2. A person is more susceptible to blackouts
3. Impaired judgment and decision making
4. A greater likelihood of accepting drinks from strangers, not knowing what has been poured or added to the drink.

The best way to avoid all risks and consequences from alcohol use is to avoid alcohol altogether. However, there are a number of ways to minimize risks and unwanted consequences from alcohol use. If you are 21+ and choose to drink alcohol, take a look at the list below:

• ALWAYS stay with friends
• Do NOT accept drinks from anyone, unless you see the bartender making the drink
• Make a plan as to how and where to go when leaving the bar
• Set a limit of standard drinks before going out
• Count the number of drinks consumed
• Take a break between drinks and alternate with non-alcoholic beverages
• Only bring a certain amount of money to ensure you are not over consuming
• NEVER drive under the influence of alcohol
• If you are feeling too intoxicated, ALWAYS inform a friend and NEVER leave alone

To find out more information on how to reduce your risk of alcohol related consequences, check out OPEN’s website (www.northeastern.edu/open)

First aid at your fingertips

The American Red Cross has launched an app that features first aid and safety tips that may help in an unexpected situation.

The app covers everyday first aid scenarios as well as steps to take during an emergency, with a 911 call button. 

Download the app and be prepared this summer for any situation. It is available for Android, Blackberry, and iPhone devices, according to the Red Cross.

 

Farmer’s Market: What’s the benefit?

1. Save money: The USDA recommends that we consume a minimum of 4-5 cups of fruits and
   veggies daily.  Unfortunately, since food prices are expected to rise, affording this much fresh produce daily could be a tad challenging for some of us. So where can you find produce on the cheap? Eating locally at farmer’s markets!
2. The taste: Once you have tasted a locally grown tomato, nothing will taste more delicious!
3. Diet and nutrition: The more time the food spends on the vine the more nutrients it passes along to you.
4. Environmental benefits: The less distance your food travels, the less energy is being used,
   and less carbon dioxide gas emissions are being created in getting the food to you.  Buying locally also reduces the impact of packaging on the environment.

We suggest stopping by NU’s Local Chow Farmer’s Market between Ryder Hall and Ruggles Station from 11-5. The Farmer’s Market is selling impeccable fruits and vegetables, baked goods and flawlessly seasoned nuts!

And if you love the Farmer’s Market, check out Real Time Farms, which meshes the data from the USDA National Farmers Market Directory with their own listings for farms and restaurants, painting a
detailed picture of local food artisans, farms, and farmers markets. They also supplement their listings with a wealth of information like photos or a weekly calendar that highlight markets and their hours of operation.

New Model of Care for Student Athletes

Art Horne, the Director of Sports Performance at Northeastern University recently had an article published titled "Improving Collaboration Between Sports Medicine and Sports Performance Models". Check it out here: http://www.leadersinperformance.com/the-leader/arthur-horne-improving-collaboration-between-sports-medicine-and-sports-performance-services-a-new-model-for-the-care-of-student-athletes/

Staying in Your Green Zone

Staying in your green zone typically equates with lower risk drinking – the lower your Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC), the lower your risk. BAC is a measurement of how much alcohol is present within a person’s bloodstream. There are a number of variables that determine someone’s BAC. To find out your own personal BAC range, click here http://bloodalcoholcalculator.org/ or stop by O.P.E.N. to pick up a personalized BAC card.

Now what does it means to “stay in your green zone”. 

How does someone “stay in their green zone” when it comes to drinking alcohol?

• Set a limit of .05 or less, or one standard drink per hour
• Space your drinks over time and keep track by counting standard drinks
• Eat before and while you are drinking
• Alternate alcohol and non-alcohol drinks
• Mix and measure you own drinks
• Avoid mixing alcohol with energy drinks

For more information on Staying in Your Green Zone please check out O.P.E.N.’s website, www.neu.edu/open                 

*Please note: OPEN is in no way encouraging or giving you permission to drink, especially if you are under 21 years old.  However, if you make the decision to drink, we want to provide you with as much information as possible so you can make informed and healthy decisions

Feeling sick ≠ Antibiotics

The best course of treatment for every illness is not antibiotics. Click here to read The Journal of the American Medical Association’s recent article on treatment of sinus infections.

Sometimes a care package from UHCS may just do the trick.

Superbowl weekend is here!

Check out these tips on playing it safe.

http://www.bpdnews.com/2012/02/02/important-super-bowl-safety-tips-for-patriots-fans-looking-to-behave-like-champions/

Gray Rape

Some commenters thought it strange that our last entry discussed two topics together: Sex Week and ViSION. This combination made some people think about rape and/or sexual assaults. One of our clinicians here at UHCS is sharing the next blog entry to raise awareness to a newer term to many Gray Rape.

A few years ago an article was published in Cosmopolitan magazine coining the term Gray Rape. The author, Laura Sessions Stepp, used this phrase to describe “sex that falls somewhere between consent and denial and is even more confusing because often both parties are unsure of who wanted what” (A New Kind of Date Rape, Cosmopolitan, p.2). More recently, a “gray rape” scenario was highlighted on an episode of CSI: Special Victims Unit entitled Grey. This term is very controversial amongst antiviolence advocates with the vast majority out rightly rejecting it.

In the Cosmo article (A New Kind of Date Rape), Ms. Sessions Step starts the article with the following scenario:

Alicia has been out of college for three years, and by most measures, she’s doing great; she has a good job as a consultant a high-rise condo, and a boyfriend her friends envy. But in one disquieting way, she has not been able to leave her college self behind. She is haunted by the memory of something that occurred one night years ago- a sexual encounter and an unanswered question- Was I raped?

This is what happened: Alicia had asked another student, Kevin, to be her “platonic date” at a college sorority formal. The two of them went out for dinner first with friends and then to the dance. She remembers that they got drunk but not what she would call sloppy wasted.

After the dance, they went back to Kevin’s room and, eventually, started making out. She told him flat out that she didn’t want it to proceed to sex, and he said okay. But in a few minutes, he had pushed her down on the couch and positioned himself on top of her.

“No. Stop,” she said softly—too softly, she later told herself. When he ignored her and entered her anyway, she tensed up and tried to go numb until it was over. He fell asleep afterward, and she left for her dorm, “having this dirty feeling of not knowing what to do or who to tell or whether it was my fault.” While it felt like rape to her—she had not wanted to have sex with Kevin – she was not sure if that’s what anyone else would call it.

Is this “gray rape?” Is this acquaintance rape? What happened?

According to Massachusetts law and Northeastern Code of Conduct, this event/occurrence fits the description of rape/sexual assault. There’s nothing gray about it. In this depiction, Alicia did not consent to engage in sex with Kevin. Regardless of whether or not force was used, regardless of what she was wearing, whether or not they had a pre-existing sexual relationship, whether they were friends, whether they were making out that night, whether they were drunk, or any other number of factors, consent was not obtained. Even further, Alicia said NO. Additionally, we have a statement that says that she was intoxicated and we know that under Massachusetts law consent cannot be given when one is intoxicated.

Ms. Sessions Step attributes some of the difficulty identifying rape situations as such to today’s “hook-up culture.” She asserts that because women are becoming increasingly comfortable pursuing sexual encounters with partners with whom they are not involved in committed relationships, signals are more likely to be misread and boundaries may be crossed. This is a troubling statement.

Many survivors engage in self blame following an assault. This contributes to low reporting rates and challenges one’s ability to seek help. Many survivors worry what others will think if they tell a friend or a loved one and fear that they will be held responsible for the perpetrator’s behavior. Survivors’ state: “Well it must be my fault because I went back to his apartment with him” or “I was making out with him so I must have given him the wrong idea.” Rape does not happen because of mixed signals or a misunderstanding. Ms. Session Step’s link between increased sexuality and sexual assault is highly damaging and frankly incorrect.

It is important to note that there is help available both on and off campus for students who have been affected by rape and sexual assault. University Health and Counseling Services offers medical evaluation and treatment, counseling, follow up, and arranges for transportation to an emergency room if desired. Please visit ViSION’s website for a list of additional resources: http://www.northeastern.edu/uhcs/vision/index.html including the Boston Area Rape Crisis Center which provides-individual and group counseling, legal and medical advocacy.

Post by: Christine Civiletto, Psychologist, Coordinator of Sexual Assault Services at UHCS

‘Tis the season for sharing germs

No one ever wants to be sick, yet the winter seems to be the time for flu, colds, and stomach illness. Washing your hands frequently and avoiding sick people are two easy ways to prevent getting sick. Dr. Doyle, Medical Director at UHCS, recently commented on the importance of the flu vaccine in the Huntington News. And one student shared how easy the process of getting the vaccine was for her. Learn more about the flu and prevention here. Unfortunately, stomach illnesses don’t have vaccines like the flu. Norovirus is the most common stomach virus in the United States. Symptoms which include nausea, vomiting diarrhea and stomach cramps typically last about 1-2 days. If symptoms persist longer, contact UHCS or your health care provider. Suggestions for the prevention of the Norovirus are very similar to the recommendations for avoiding the flu virus with frequent hand washing once again being at the top of the list. Since Norovirus is transmitted in a hand to mouth manner, hand washing just prior to eating is particularly important. If you have the Norovirus or live with someone who does, keeping shared surfaces like countertops clean will also decrease the risk of transmission. If you do contract the virus, do not panic. Try to keep a good fluid intake despite any vomiting (sips of liquid every 5 minutes helps) and take only simple foods. If you feel like you can’t control your symptoms or keep even tiny sips of water down, see us at UHCS or go to a local Emergency Room.

It has come to our attention that an off-campus event organized by an outside organization has led some students to feel that their safety and well-being are at risk. Because sponsorship of the event has been confusing to some, we would like to make it clear that the University is in no way affiliated with it, and is not involved with the planning or promotion of it in any way.

Threats of violence will not be excused or tolerated at Northeastern. This behavior violates criminal laws as well as the Student Code of Conduct, and violations of these laws are treated very seriously, in accordance with University standards. Northeastern is committed to maintaining a safe environment for our entire community, and takes a proactive stance in the prevention of violence. Strict sanctions are enforced against those found responsible for committing such acts.  Any threat, act of aggression or act of violence should be immediately reported to NU Public Safety.

Get your flu vaccine!

How many times have you heard this before and wondered if it will really help? The answer is yes! The flu vaccine will protect against 3 influenza viruses that research show will be most common this season. The vaccine causes the body to build antibodies against infection with the viruses.

The flu season is upon us and can make you sick enough to miss classes, events and final exams. Protect yourself and get vaccinated now!

It takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop in the body and provide protection against influenza virus infection. In the meantime, you are still at risk for getting the flu. So prevention remains the simplest measure to combat the spread of the virus -Hand washing and
cough etiquette is a must.

UHCS has the flu vaccine available. No appointment is necessary. The cost for the vaccine is $20.00. This fee can be paid for by credit, debit, or Husky Dollars at UHCS-NO CASH can be taken. To pay with cash, visit the Cashier's office in Richard's Hall in advance. Please bring your receipt with you to UHCS as proof of payment.

Freshman 15 is a myth

Check out the latest research on the freshman 15. It seems to be that a couple more pounds is actually just part of getting older.

http://www.boston.com/lifestyle/health/articles/2011/11/01/new_research_debunks_myths_on_college_weight_gain/

How much is too much?

This question remains in some students’ minds when it comes to drinking alcohol. 

We should begin with explaining a standard drink. It is the amount of alcohol that your body can safely process in one hour. When drinking from solo cups, it can be very easy to lose track of how much you are consuming. Below are the measurements within a solo cup for different types of alcohol.

 

12 oz. beer  

4-5 oz. wine or champagne (2nd from bottom line)

8-10 oz. malt liquor (Smirnoff Ice, Colt 45, etc.)

1-1.5 oz. liquor (bottom line)

Now that we know what a standard drink is, how does that help us understand how much is too much?

We know that weight and gender play a large part in determining how much to drink. Staying in your Green Zone is a term used by many experts to understand how much to drink. Read more about this here.  The average person is in their green zone when having about 2-3 drinks over about 1-2 hours.  To find out your personal BAC and how many drinks over how much time will allow you to keep your BAC in the green zone, check out BloodAlcoholCalculator.org  or download the Blood Alcohol Concentration Calculator to your iPhone. 

 

Please note: in no way are we encouraging or giving you permission to drink, especially if you are under 21 years old.  However, if you make the decision to drink, we want to provide you with as much information as possible so you can make informed and healthy decisions.

 

I missed class because I was sick...what should I do now?

We do not provide written excuses for students who miss class due to illness or injury. This policy was highlighted in the Provost’s guidelines for missed classes during the H1N1 flu epidemic of 2009. 

Students who need to miss class due to illness/injury are encouraged to notify their professor that they are ill or injured and unable to attend, preferably prior to the class. It is the right of the faculty to determine when or if a student will be excused from class.  

Our policy is consistent with our commitment to maintain confidentiality, appropriately use health care resources, and support the faculty/student relationship. Integrity in this process is an expectation of the Northeastern Academic Integrity Policy.

Download a sample email notification to send to your professors if you miss class.

Do I have bed bugs?

Bed bugs are tiny insects that feed on blood leaving small bite marks typically on your arms, chest, and back. It’s important to act quickly if you suspect bed bugs in your apartment or room.  An expert must confirm the problem is truly bed bugs. If you reside in an apartment building, you should contact your landlord immediately. If you reside in the residence halls on campus, contact your RA or RD. If bed bugs are confirmed, you will be advised of the prescribed room treatment and how to prepare for it. Click here for important health information from NU.

What do I look for to see if I have bed bugs?
When cleaning or changing bedding, look for:

• Dark spots (about this size: •) which are bed bug feces
• Eggs and eggshells, which are tiny (about 1mm) and white
• Skins that nymphs shed as they grow larger
• Live bed bugs
• Rusty or reddish stains on bed sheets or mattresses caused by bed bugs being crushed

What do I do with my belongings if I think I have bed bugs?

Once you have contacted your RA or building manager, it is extremely important that you do not remove or relocate anything from your room or other areas of your apartment. It is unnecessary to discard potentially infested furniture, mattresses, and other belongings. DO NOT relocate laundry to laundry rooms or other areas until AFTER a bed bug inspection, and follow instructions you receive for any treatment to your room.

Can I prevent bed bugs? 

There are some precautions you can take to help prevent bed bugs:

• Check secondhand furniture, beds, couches for any signs of bed bug infestation as noted above.
• Use a protective cover to encase mattresses and box springs
• Reduce clutter to reduce hiding places for the bed bugs
• When traveling in hotel rooms check the mattress and headboard for signs of bed bugs-keep belongings off the floor and unpack directly into the washing machine upon return home.

Recall on Certain Oral Contraceptives

 
The FDA has announced a recall on Qualitest Pharmaceuticals oral contraceptives. The recall is being implemented because of a packaging error. As a result of this packaging error, the daily regimen for these oral contraceptives may be incorrect and could leave women without adequate contraception, and at risk for unintended pregnancy. These packaging defects do not pose any immediate health risks. Product that has been improperly packaged has no visible lot number and no expiration date on the back of the blister package.

University Health and Counseling Services has not found any prescriptions written to students in our records. Nonetheless, if you have received oral contraceptives from clinicians outside of UHCS, you should check to see if you have a defective product. Click here to see a list of the oral contraceptives that have been recalled.

Women affected by the recall should use a non-hormonal form of birth control, such as condoms, immediately.

You are here, now what?

You made it!  You have unpacked, set up your room, had some fun and you are gearing up for the first semester of classes.  The move from high school to college is an exciting one. It means freedom, independence and choice.  But there is one important challenge- high school and college are different!  Understanding and acknowledging the differences is the key to success.

The high school schedule provides a structure.  You attend classes five days a week, seven hours a day with extra-curricular activities and homework to round out the evening. Your high school teachers would remind you of upcoming assignments and correct your homework.

College life provides little structure. College classes meet only a few times a week, sometimes with hours in between each class. You will be doing most of your studying outside of class time (2-3 hours of studying for each hour in class) with lectures and other class work as a guide.  A substantial amount of reading and writing will be assigned and may not be reviewed in class.  Tests and exams are scheduled far less frequently than in high school.  It would not be unusual to have only 2 or 3 tests for the semester in a class in college.  It is also possible to have two classes schedule tests for the same day. 

So, what can you do?  Believe it or not, you have an amazing amount of control over this situation.

1. Attend class.
2. Read the class syllabus! College professors feel that their expectations of you are clearly outlined in the class syllabus.
3. Review class notes and textbook material on a regular basis.
4. Get an organizational system in place, whether it is a week-at-a-glance planner or electronic calendar.
5. Contact the professor or visit during office hours if you start having difficulty in class. College professors can be very helpful, but they will expect that you initiate any contact.
6. Never be afraid to ask for help.

As a member of the Northeastern community, expect to be challenged, and expect to grow and succeed. It is the choices and decisions which YOU make that will determine the success of your university experience.

post by Mary Barrows, Director of the Learning Disabilities Program

Wash your hands!

Wash your hands! How many times have you heard this and wondered if it really helps keep you healthy.

The answer is yes.

Not only does hand washing keep germs from affecting you, but it stops any bacteria from getting passed to others and causing illnesses ranging from the common cold, flu, viral meningitis, to the far more serious ones such as E. Coli.

Look at the microbial growth on this petri dish. A) no disinfection B) after hand washing with soap C) using alcohol based cleanser. 
 

Watch this video to learn how to wash your hands properly from the CDC

Preparing for the Weekend Storm

Any time of the year, storms in New England are unpredictable, so it’s best to be prepared. We may lose power or we may not.  Here are some things to add to your checklist-

The basics we all hear about a lot:

• Batteries and flashlight
• Water and food for at least 3 days
• Safety first when using candles

And a couple of other tips with regard to health and safety:

• Be sure you have enough medication to last a week or two
• Check the University’s website for updates regarding safety

Stay healthy and safe this weekend!

Summer heat

Nobody likes a sunburn, but that's not the only thing to watch out for during a heat wave.  Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are other unpleasant side effects of hot weather.  Prevention is the best defense during hot weather.

 

• Fluids: Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink.  Drink more fluids (nonalcoholic) than usual, regardless of your activity level. While exercising, drink two to four glasses of cool, nonalcoholic fluids each hour.  A sports beverage can replace the salt and minerals you lose in sweat.
• Keeping Cool: Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. Stay indoors during the peak heat hours of the day. If your apartment or res hall does not have air conditioning, go to the Curry Student Center, the shopping mall, library or other air conditioned space –even a few hours   spent in air conditioning can help your body stay cooler when you go back into the heat. 
• Outdoor Activity: Limit your outdoor activity and exercise to morning and evening hours when the sun is lower in the sky. It is important to rest often in shady areas.
• Protection: Protect yourself from the sun by applying sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher, wearing a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.

Emotional wellness

Emotional wellness is linked to overall good health.  The capacity to experience a full range of emotions is essential to productive daily living. The range of emotions some college students experience can vary from mild performance anxiety to incapacitating worry.  Some of these emotions are predictable and even functional, while others may linger a little too long and cause interference with daily functioning.

Controllable vulnerability factors can contribute to feeling emotions, particularly negative emotions, more intensely.   Steps can be taken to reduce emotional vulnerability before it interferes with functioning.  These concepts are core skills in the Dialectic Behavioral Therapy model by Dr.Marsha Linehan and have been adapted for use with many different populations as a means of maintaining emotional well being.  

Here are a few suggested steps:

• Eat balanced:  A healthy diet and small, frequent meals can contribute to a more balanced mood.  Not eating enough, overeating, or eating foods high in fat can contribute to mood instability.  The movie “Supersize Me” illustrates this concept quite clearly.
• Sleep balanced:  Much like eating, too much or too little of sleep can impact mood.  Think of sleep as “recharge” time for your body and mind.  6 to 8 hours of sleep is optimum; however this may vary from person to person.  Concentration, attention, and mood changes can be the result of hypersomnia or insomnia.  Keeping to a regular sleep schedule can greatly reduce the intensity of emotions. 
• Avoid mood altering drugs:  Drugs and alcohol, including caffeine and nicotine, can have the façade of having an initial positive effect on mood.  Long term use can result in anxiety, depression, irritability, tolerance, or dependency.
• Exercise:  Endorphins are “happy chemicals” in your body that get released with exercise.  Exercising 30 minutes per day can improve your sense of emotional well being via release of endorphins.  Regular exercise can also improve your overall physical health, which is a secondary means of reducing emotional vulnerability. 
• Attend to physical illness:  This means taking medication as prescribed or seeking medical treatment if you are sick.  When you are not feeling well physically, it is hard to be on your “A” game emotionally.
• Challenge yourself:  Do one thing daily that is challenging.  Try a Sudoku puzzle, walk an extra 1/2 mile on the treadmill, read an article on a topic you know nothing about, or think of an affirmation or a positive thought.  Overall mood will improve with a positive attitude and feelings of accomplishment.  

Try these ideas, but if you find yourself emotional wellness deteriorating, then it is time to seek support.  There are a number of effective methods of treating behavioral health issues, including counseling and medication.  UHCS counselors and psychopharmacology providers are available to assist in determining the most effective means of treatment and support. 

 

post by Joy Camara, MSN/PMHCNS candidate in adult psychiatric nursing at Northeastern University, practicum student in Behavioral Health at UHCS

Alcohol and Caffeine

While mixing alcohol and caffeine is certainly not a new idea, what is “new” is mixing energy drinks and alcohol. Energy drinks are not just “coffee”. Therefore, mixing energy drinks with alcohol is not the same as having an Irish coffee after dinner.

If you look closely at the label of any energy drink, you will see that there are a lot of ingredie nts that are not in a cup of coffee at your favorite coffee shop. Ingredients like Taurine, Guarana, Ginseng, along with high concentrations of sugar and caffeine act as stimulants.  While these ingredients may increase your level of alertness and wakefulness, when mixed with alcohol, they do not take away the impairment experienced when intoxicated. The ability to make appropriate decisions, think clearly, and make healthy decisions continues to be affected. And you may actually think you can drink more because ingredients in the energy drink “trick” you into thinking that are not as intoxicated as you really are.

Think about it – what do you get from an “alert-drunk”? Someone who thinks they can talk, dance, walk, drive, hook-up, party and use drugs; all the while not having the needed “soberness” to make good decisions regarding these actions.

So while mixing alcohol and caffeinated energy drinks may be popular amongst some, make your own decisions - don’t just be part of the crowd. 

 Be Safe and Be Original!

 

post by Felix Fernandez-Pizzi, Alcohol and Other Drug Counselor at UHCS

Ticks

Spring and summer mean better weather and enjoyment of the great outdoors. A word of warning though, please be aware of our least favorite members of the natural world – TICKS. 
These little insects are in forests, tall grasses, sand dunes, fields of clover and other beautiful spots.  They survive by leaping on us (and dogs and cats) and sucking our blood so they may reproduce before they die.  Unfortunately this unpleasant form of contact can allow the transmission of illnesses like Lyme disease, Erhlichiosis, Babesiosis and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever.

As with many illnesses, prevention is the best protection!  Long, light colored clothing helps prevent ticks from getting on the skin and aids in their detection.  A self check for ticks after an outdoor activity is also an excellent idea. Be sure to have a mirror available to visualize those hard to see areas.  After a self check, a thorough bath or shower is a must. 

Most tick borne illness requires a tick to be feeding on its human host for greater than 24 hours so don’t panic if you find one after your outdoor activity.  If there is any sign of rash or infection around a tick bite or anywhere on the body, you should make an appointment at UHCS or with your primary care clinician.  If you develop a fever above 102 degrees F, rash or decreased mental functioning after a tick bite, you should be checked out right away. 

The bacterial diseases a tick bite can transmit have symptoms that range from mild fever, body aches, headache and fatigue to a life threatening septic shock.  Long term health problems are possible and become more likely with delays in diagnosis and treatment.  Fortunately, treatment is fairly routine and if caught early, highly effective.  Testing and therapy is available here at UHCS and we are happy to examine any insects brought in.

So, go forth and enjoy the world but be sure to check yourself upon the return from the outdoors and please seek medical attention if you have any questions. 

Measles in Boston

The media is continuing to report on more cases of measles in the Boston area. Measles is a highly contagious respiratory disease which spreads in the air by breathing, coughing or sneezing.  Symptoms of measles include a blotchy rash all over the body, fever, runny nose, cough, conjunctivitis, feeling run down, and tiny white spots with bluish-white centers found inside the mouth.

Being proactive is our safest strategy.  The best defense is to receive two MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) immunizations. Northeastern students’ immunization requirements include two (2) MMRs. It is strongly recommended that all students, staff, and faculty check their vaccination history to be sure they have record of two doses of MMR vaccine given at least one month apart. Persons who are not fully vaccinated against measles are at the highest risk for infection.  Measles immunizations are available at UHCS.

Remember, there is no treatment for measles - prevention is the only way to reliably avoid a potentially life threatening infection!

If you think you’ve been exposed, it is important that you be seen by a medical clinician right away to see if you need to be vaccinated. The vaccine should be given within 72 hours after exposure in order to prevent or decrease the severity of the disease.

For more information about measles, click here.

Are you ready...?

Does the spring weather have you motivated to get outside more?  Are you thinking that a walk around Boston sounds fun?  Ready to start a new exercise program?

Spring temperatures and sunny days can motivate everyone to get out of their apartments/res halls but its important to do it safely.

Flip-flops and heels are not the best footwear option for that walk around town. They can change your gait in subtle ways that can lead to serious sole, heel and ankle problems. Throwing on a good pair of sneakers will be better for your feet. Walking in bare feet is also good for your feet, but weather, safety and cleanliness - as well as the ability to go into a store or a Dunkins - may argue against it.   

The sunny days and warmer weather also means sun exposure. Every day application of sunscreen is important to protect your skin from ultraviolet rays. If you are swimming or sweating, remember to check the label for the best variety AND to determine if reapplication is necessary.

We hope that you can apply the suggestions we make and start putting yourself on your Springtime/Summer path to good health! Note: Always consult your doctor prior to beginning any new exercise regiment!

Everyone needs a dose of spring air and sunshine!

Many people say they love spring. But instead of enjoying it, the average American spends most of the season stuck inside. All this indoor living isn't doing much for everyone’s health. We have lost sight of the benefits and value in fresh air and sunshine. So, don’t spend most of your day indoors if you can find the time to get outside.

Fresh air not only provides essential oxygen to your lungs but it also helps purify the blood and cells.  After you take in air through your lungs, your red blood cells pick up the oxygen and carry it to the rest of your body. This steady supply of oxygen is needed by your brain and every single cell of your body.

Sunshine is the best source for Vitamin D.  Simply being in sunlight triggers skin to make vitamin D. It is shaping up to be a potent cancer fighter and protector to certain chronic disease. When outside make sure to protect your skin with SPF 15 or higher. Not only will sunshine help in combating disease it also improves moods.

So get outside, breathe some fresh air and bask in the rays of the beautiful sunshine.  You will be amazed by how refreshed and energized you will be.

Access to Care on Weekends and Holidays

Getting sick on a weekend can interrupt plans and not be fun.  But not everyone gets sick Monday through Friday. We want to make sure that you know that UHCS is open on Saturdays and most holidays during the academic year. We are excited to announce that starting this Saturday, March 19^th, UHCS will now be open 12-4pm on Saturdays instead of 10-2pm. This change is based on input from students who expressed a clear preference for access to UHCS in the afternoon as opposed to the morning.

When the health center is closed, students with health questions or medical concerns can call New England Baptist Hospital at (617) 754-5544 to speak with a nurse. Students in need of urgent care on campus can contact our Northeastern police officers who are trained as emergency medical technicians (EMTs), and are able to respond immediately and in a medically competent manner, to any crisis on campus, more quickly than local emergency services.

Students are also fortunate, due to our location in the heart of Boston, to have access to some of the highest quality and most readily available emergency, inpatient and community-based care in the nation.

UHCS provides 24-hour consultation to the University and local hospitals on urgent student matters.  We coordinate directly with the Northeastern University Police Department and the Office of Student Affairs on a 24-hour daily basis for consultation on matters of student and community safety.

We hope the new Saturday hours and explanation of care on weekends and holidays helps students to get the care they need when they need it.

Earthquake and Tsunami in Japan: Supports available for students

The effect of the Pacific earthquake and tsunami on Japan and its citizens is heartbreaking. The aftermath has also affected parts of the west coast and Hawaii.  We at UHCS offer our sympathy and support for students who have loved ones or friends in these areas. We know that anyone who experiences a disaster is affected by it, whether directly or indirectly.

For many students whose loved ones are in or near these affected areas, confirmation of well-being may not be immediately available.  Although we turn to our friends and local supports, some of us may be in an agonizing time of waiting, or may have already heard painful news.  

Anxiety, worry and grief are normal responses to an abnormally stressful situation.  Although we realize that we each have our own ways of dealing with stress, we encourage any student in need of support at this time to call or come to UHCS.  We have staff available to talk and help strategize the best coping plans for an extremely difficult time. Click here for self help information on stress.

Updated information is available through the Red Cross.

Please stop in to UHCS at 135 Forsyth Building or call 617-373-2772.

Not everything that happens on spring break stays on spring break

It’s never easy to come back from spring break whether you went on vacation or went home.  Here are a couple things to make the return to life at NU, a little easier.

1 – Reestablish healthy patterns.  Maybe you didn’t go to bed as early as you know you should, or maybe you’re still recovering from a case of jet lag.  Either way, now’s the time to catch up on your sleep, before the semester gets going again and your sleep debt starts to catch up with you.  Getting a healthy, balanced diet back on track and visiting Marino or Squashbusters a few times a week might not be a bad idea either.

2 - Not everything that happens on spring break stays on spring break.  If you’re worried about more than just the memories of that spring fling coming home with you, schedule an appointment with a clinician at UHCS for STI testing.  It’s confidential!

3 – Be on the lookout for international stowaways.  Did you choose an alternative spring break this year?  Eat some questionably cooked food while helping out in the Congo?  Dined on mystery hash in Haiti? Chilled out in a lake in Chad? If you’re feeling more under-the-weather than you would expect from your post-vacation blues, you might have picked up a tropical infection..  So, if you have fever, chills, night sweats, lingering cough, mysterious itch, rash, unusual bleeding or bruising, diarrhea, vomiting, or anything else outside the norm for you, consider scheduling an appointment at UHCS.

Post by Cathryn Imperato, Nurse Practitioner at UHCS

Measles Update

From Dr Doyle:

We are sure that you are aware of the recent press reports of several cases of measles in the Boston area.  Although there are currently no confirmed cases that put NU at particular risk, I believe that being proactive is our safest strategy.  To this end I strongly recommend that all students, staff and faculty check their vaccination history to be sure they have record of two doses of MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine given at least one month apart.  For students who are missing these records or who are unvaccinated, UHCS is currently offering the MMR vaccine at no cost!  Remember, there is no treatment for measles - prevention is the only way to reliably avoid a potentially life threatening infection!