Health Topics

Here is information on common concerns of college students.  This information may be helpful but if you would like more in depth consultation about these or any health related topic, our providers welcome you to schedule an appointment.

Meningococcal Disease

Meningococcal disease is a serious, potentially fatal infection. Get the latest information and prevention guidelines.pdf .

Seasonal Affective Disorder

Some people experience a serious mood change during the winter months, when there is less natural sunlight. This condition is called Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD (pdf).  

ZIKA Virus

For up to date information on travel alerts, prevention, transmission, symptoms and treatment, visit the CDC website. Please call the Student Health Center if you have additional questions.

Free Smoking Cessation Nicotine Patches

Smoking cessation support, advice and FREE nicotine patches are available at the Student Health Center.  Giving up smoking isn't easy but you can do it with the right tools.  Each time you try to quit, the more likely you will be to succeed. Here are some good reasons to quit smoking (pdf).

Call the Student Health Center for an appointment at 503-352-2269.

Getting A Good Night's Sleep: Tips and Support

You may feel like you are too busy studying, working or having fun to slow down and get a healthy amount of sleep. In addition, daily stressors may be making it difficult for you to get quality sleep. Here are some tips and support (pdf).

Managing Stress

Stress is anything that alters your natural balance. When stress is present, your body and mind must attend to it in order to return you to balance. Your body reacts to stress by releasing hormones that help you cope with the situation. That in turn takes energy away from other functions of your brain, like concentrating or taking action. Here are some tips for managing stress (pdf).

Influenza—What You Should Know

Influenza is a viral infection that attacks your respiratory system—your nose, throat and lungs. Influenza , commonly called the "flu", is not the same as stomach flu viruses that cause vomiting and diarrhea. Here is what you should know about influenza (pdf).

Help for Homesickness

Feeling homesick is common for students attending college.  Here is some information about and tips on managing homesickness.

Eating 101:  The Basics of Good Nutrition

Good nutrition is key to maintaining a healthy lifestyle and academic success. There are many good free apps for your phone to help you track nutrition and exercise including MyFitnessPal, MapMyWalk/Run, 7 minute workout, etc.  Here are some nutrition tips (pdf) that might help you make good food choices.