The President’s Walk is a time-honored tradition where President “Bud” Peterson guides students and employees through campus along the Tyler Brown Pi Mile. The walk is a great opportunity to network with students, faculty, and staff from across campus, including the President himself! Health Initiatives (HI) senior director, Stacy Connell said, “This is the 10th anniversary of our President’s Walk, a signature event that President Peterson has led for the past 10 years. It is certainly bittersweet as we take this final walk with President Peterson as he ends his presidency and enters into his retirement. He has been such a compassionate champion for the health and well-being of the entire Georgia Tech community. I’m glad we have this moment to honor his legacy and celebrate the health of our campus together one more time.”
Pre-registration check-in for the event and day of registration opens at 3:45 pm and you must have your BuzzCard to check in. The walk begins with opening ceremonies by President Peterson himself and HI Senior Director, Stacy Connell at 4:30 pm. The first 50 people to check in and complete at least one loop of the course will receive one of the last President’s Walk t-shirts. To register for the event go to crc.gatech.edu/presidents-walk. We look forward to seeing you at this year’s walk rain or shine!
The President’s walk is part of the employee well-being week which is focused on “showcasing our commitment to the health and well-being of our hard-working faculty and staff. During the school year, it can be easy to forgo taking care of ourselves. We want to kick-off summer by providing events that remind us to do just that. We are focused on cultivating a work culture at Georgia Tech that supports the whole person so that employees are engaged, satisfied and able to thrive,” said Connell. This inaugural week takes place from Monday, May 13th – Friday, May 17th at various locations across campus.
The week features different workshops, a health expo, FREE access to the CRC and more! This week is a great time to learn more about health and well-being on campus while also connecting with your coworkers! For more information about this week-long event go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/wellbeing-week.
Do you want to learn about more events like this? Stay connected with the Health and Wellbeing newsletter. Subscribe today!
]]>Healthy Jackets is a new peer education program introduced to the Georgia Tech campus last fall. Edmonds said, “the peer educator model is shown to be more effective in creating positive behavior change in college students than an administrative approach. Students don’t always feel like they can connect with staff as easily as they can with their peers. It allows peers to connect with their community through shared goals and experiences.” In addition to creating a more supportive community peer educators will receive the benefits of mentorship and training from current health professionals while building essential resume skills like developing, implementing and evaluating health programs, project management, strategic planning, communications and public speaking.
Peer educators commit approximately 8-10 hours per month to the program through trainings, presentations and meetings. You will work directly with health professionals developing and tailoring presentations for various campus organizations and groups with a peer to peer approach. If you are interested in learning more about this program HI is hosting the final interest meeting Tuesday, September 17 from 11 am - 12 pm in the Student Center room 301 or Tuesday, October 8 from 11 am - 12 pm in the Student Center room 301. If you know this program is for you apply today at healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/healthyjacket.
]]>SleepWell@Tech runs from October 21 - 25 in various locations in the Student Center and brings awareness to the importance of sleep for your overall health and well-being. HI health educator and event co-creator JaPeera Edmond’s said, “Lack of sleep or poor sleep habits can lead to a host of negative health outcomes. ... It is important that students know what these outcomes are and how they improve their sleep, which in turn can improve their quality of life.”
But First, Sleep - Monday October, 21st
Location - Healthy Space
Time - 11am-2pm
Description - Sleep is a key building block to your success and health. Learn everything you need to know about sleep to keep you healthy, including how caffeine can impact your sleep.
From Zzz to A's - Tuesday, October 22nd
Location - Student Center Kiosk 4 (Next to DePoe Eye Center)
Time - 10am-1pm
Description - Don't let sleep take a back seat to your studies, sleep is essential for memory consolidation which you need to pass those exams. Learn about how sleep is key to your academic success.
The Art of the Nap - Wednesday, October 23rd
Location - Student Center Kiosk 3 (across form Chick-Fil-A)
Time - 11am-2pm
Description - You heard naps are bad, right? Not quite, napping the RIGHT way can help you get refreshed and ready to tackle your to-do list. Learn the proper way to nap and adding it to your schedule.
Setting the Scene for Sleep - Thursday, October 25th
Location - Student Center Kiosk 3 (across form Chick-Fil-A)
Time - 10am-1pm
Description - Studying and working in your bedroom can cause restlessness and poor sleep quality. Learn about ideal bedroom conditions for sleep and make a DIY potpourri satchel.
Find Your Circadian Rhythm - Friday, October 25th
Location - Healthy Space
Time - 11am - 2pm
Description - Fighting your body's natural rhythm is only setting yourself up to fail. Learn about circadian rhythm and kick off your day with a quick snack to keep you energized.
“The academic environment at Georgia Tech can have a negative impact on students that cause them to engage in unhealthy behaviors such as sleeping less, which can lead to increased levels of stress, anxiety, and depression,” said Edmonds. “It is important that we teach students to engage in positive sleep behaviors to improve overall health and academic performance.” Don’t let Georgia Tech’s crazy environment interfere with you getting the healthiest sleep you can. For additional event information and to learn more about healthy sleep patterns go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/sleep.
]]>This program runs from October 21 - 25 in various locations in the Student Center and brings awareness to the importance of sleep for your overall health and well-being. “Lack of sleep or poor sleep habits can lead to a host of negative health outcomes,” said health educator and event co-creator JaPeera Edmond. “It is important that students know what these outcomes are and how they improve their sleep, which in turn can improve their quality of life.”
The following events will take place during SleepWell@Tech Week.
But First, Sleep – Monday, October, 21st
Healthy Space in the Student Center from 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Sleep is a key building block to your success and health. Learn everything you need to know about sleep to keep you healthy, including how caffeine can impact your sleep.
From Zzz to A's - Tuesday, October 22nd
Student Center Kiosk 4 (Next to DePoe Eye Center) from 10:00 am - 1:00pm
Don't let sleep take a back seat to your studies, sleep is essential for memory consolidation which you need to pass those exams. Learn about how sleep is key to your academic success.
The Art of the Nap - Wednesday, October 23rd
Student Center Kiosk 3 (across from Chick-Fil-A) from 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
You heard naps are bad, right? Not quite, napping the RIGHT way can help you get refreshed and ready to tackle your to-do list. Learn the proper way to nap and adding it to your schedule.
Setting the Scene for Sleep - Thursday, October 25th
Student Center Kiosk 3 (across from Chick-Fil-A) from 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
Studying and working in your bedroom can cause restlessness and poor sleep quality. Learn about ideal bedroom conditions for sleep and make a DIY potpourri satchel.
Find Your Circadian Rhythm - Friday, October 25th
Healthy Space in the Student Center from 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Fighting your body's natural rhythm is only setting yourself up to fail. Learn about circadian rhythm and kick off your day with a quick snack to keep you energized.
“The academic environment at Georgia Tech can have a negative impact on students that cause them to engage in unhealthy behaviors such as sleeping less, which can lead to increased levels of stress, anxiety, and depression,” said Edmonds. “It is important that we teach students to engage in positive sleep behaviors to improve overall health and academic performance.”
For additional event information and to learn more about healthy sleep patterns go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/sleep.
]]>PHA’s Healthier Campus Initiative was implemented to provide college students, faculty, and staff with the necessary tools and tips to promote a healthy environment. PHA has worked to become partners with more than 50 colleges and universities across the nation who have committed to completing specific healthy campus guidelines. Georgia Tech was recognized last year as one of PHA’s completing partners.
Healthy Campus Week will be held September 23-27, 2019, with daily wellness events and activities that all students, faculty, and staff are invited to participate in. Below you will find a schedule detailing what can be expected for the week.
Mindful Monday, September 23
Tuesday, September 24
Wind Down Wednesday, September 25
Thursday, September 26
Fruits & Veggies Friday
Throughout the week, the CRC will hold Group Fitness Classes for all members with group fitness passes.
The fun doesn’t stop there! All students will have the opportunity to enter PHA’s Healthy Campus Week Photo Sweepstakes for the chance to win a $100 Target Gift Card, Columbia gear, and other giveaways from MindBody. Simply post a photo and use the hashtags #HealthyCampusSweepstakes and #ColumbiaRaffle and follow @Columbia1938 AND @HEALTHIER_CAMPUS to enter.
Finally, a food drive will occur throughout the week for Klemis Kitchen. Students can find drop boxes for non-perishable foods at the CRC, Stamps Health Services, Student Center Healthy Space, Brittain Dining Hall, North Ave Dining Hall, and West Village.
]]>Health Initiatives
(404) 894-9980 | healthy@gatech.edu
This event will feature interactive expo booths, mental health resources, King of Pops, giveaways and more! “The goal of Fresh Check Day is to create an approachable atmosphere where students will feel comfortable engaging in dialogue about mental health and becoming knowledgeable about the mental health resources available on campus, in the community, and nationally,” said Joi Alexander, Director of Health Promotion in HI.
Suicide Prevention Week is part of Georgia Tech’s commitment to the health and well-being of its campus community. This week takes place from September 7th – September 13th. For more information about this event go to, endsuicide.gatech.edu.
For additional information about mental health and well-being resources on campus, go to care.gatech.edu, counseling.gatech.edu or healthinitiatives.gatech.edu.
]]>Communications Officer II
Division of Student Life at Georgia Tech
]]>Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the U.S. for all ages. These signs act as a beacon of hope to those struggling with grief and a reminder that they are not alone, and the entire Georgia Tech community stands behind them.
What makes the message on these signs unique is that the meaning behind them is in the eye of the beholder. Whether the viewer is struggling with depression, or a class project these signs are a reminder that you are enough, and you are worthy.
We all have a role to play in ending suicide on our campus and in our community. Suicide Prevention Week is part of Georgia Tech’s commitment to health and well-being on campus. For more information about the various events scheduled throughout the week go to endsuicide.gatech.edu.
Students seeking mental health support can visit the newly opened Center for Assessment, Referral and Education on the first floor of Smithgall Student Services (Flag) Building or visit care.gatech.edu for more information.
]]>Communications Officer II
Division of Student Life at Georgia Tech
]]>“Many people believe that all of life’s discomforts basically equate to toxic, negative, stress, but that’s not true,” said Dr. Hughes-Troutman. The first step in embracing stress is to promote a healthy mindset surrounding this emotion. “The secret is to remember that stress is not out in the world but lives in our mind. It is our own subjective response to our experiences,” remarked Dr. Croft. Because stress affects each person differently, there is no exact way to change your mindset. Dr. Hughes-Troutman suggested that it is important “to recognize that your body’s stress response is helpful, see that you are resilient and can handle it, and acknowledge that everyone deals with it.”
Changing the stigma around stress is the first step to embracing the power of our body’s natural response to danger. “We can see from Professor McGonigal’s research, individuals who viewed stress as a positive were more productive in their relationships, schoolwork and had better overall health,” stated Hughes-Troutman. Using stress as something to encourage you can help you rise to the challenge, focus more, and maintain better mental and physical health. Dr. Croft said that, “if we keep stress at a low-moderate level, we can use this manageable level of stress to hone our focus and improve our memory.”
Even with a healthy mindset, there can be a point when stress turns into a negative stressor. “Stress that occurs without relief is distress, which is a negative stress reaction,” said Dr. Hughes-Troutman. It is important to maintain a handle on our stress. “If we let ourselves become overwhelmed, usually by focusing on catastrophic thinking, our subjective sense of stress can be overwhelming,” said Dr. Croft. Remembering that everyone deals with stress and that stress lives within our brains, can help us put the emotion into perspective. Stress also takes on a negative connotation “when we are hungry, intoxicated, isolated or exhausted,” stated Dr. Croft.
When we let stress build to a high level, it no longer becomes beneficial. In order to manage stress, it is important that you “don’t view your stress as a sign that you’re a failure or that you can’t handle situations,” remarked Dr. Hughes-Troutman. She suggested, “when you find yourself under stress, reach out to others and find healthy ways to cope, adapt and transform your stress.”
There are many resources on campus that help students manage and cope with stress. Dr. Hughes-Troutman recommended attending a pet therapy session, signing up for Fit to Thrive classes or connecting with Health Initiatives through wellness coaching if you are struggling with viewing stress in a positive light. If things ever get to be too much, remember that “you are here at Tech because you are capable and bright,” concluded Dr. Hughes-Troutman. For more information on stress management resources go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu.
]]>Midtown Alliance is a non-profit organization that works every day to keep Midtown clean, safe, accessible and interesting. This gives students and staff, premium access to the IN*MidtownATL mobile app, which rewards you with discounts, unique offers, and experiences around the city.
For years, the Meet Me in Midtown discount card has helped employees and students access special discounts, and now there is a digital counterpart to the card! With the app, you will have instant access to 100+ unique offers and experiences ONLY available for Midtown Alliance members. Both the card and the app provide you with 10% off at all participating venues, but only the app gives you access to even more offers such as BOGO free lunches, complimentary beverages, and free pastries with purchase in the Midtown area.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity! To gain access to this incredible deal, download the IN*MidtownATL mobile app in the Apple or Google Play stores. Unlock your access by creating an account and logging in with your organization name (choose “Georgia Institute of Technology" from the list). Be sure to turn on location services so you can find all the great offers based on your location.
If you have any issues registering, email appsupport@midtownatl.com.
Fit to Thrive was developed to incorporate new health challenges and explore different campus resources every week. Participants learn about health and well-being opportunities on campus while also setting their own personal goals and working with a health educator to reach them. This group program takes a very individualized approach through personal goal setting. Previous attendee and Stamps Health Services Pharmacy Tech, Jennifer Ayers said, “my favorite part of the program was the hands-on approach to activities. We went to West Village with the nutritionist as well as took a yoga class.” This interactive program is not restricted to a classroom but instead goes out and explores health opportunities across campus.
Fit to Thrive explores on-campus programming in a safe and inclusive environment. Healthy living is more than just diet and exercise and this five-week series addresses a different component of health every week. Ayers said, “my biggest takeaway was learning about myself and how I react to different life stresses. It taught me how to be more mindful of my actions.” Created for both students and employees, Fit to Thrive will spend this fall focused on nutrition, physical activity, mindfulness, understanding your strengths, and stress management.
Registration is now open and required for this free series. CRC membership is not required to join this program. Go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/thrive to register and learn more.
]]>Communications Officer II | Health and Wellbeing
]]>Popular media often romanticizes stalking behaviors with romantic comedies that involve manipulation and wearing down the defenses of an unsuspecting victim to show that “love” knows no boundaries. The romantic storyline of slowly wearing someone down over time through repeated and unwanted interactions is one that is inexplicably held up and admired as unrequited love. Planchard said, “The portrayal in the movies of one character persistently pursuing another who has rejected them perpetuates the notion that if you just put the time in to woo them, you are entitled to them.”
At least 1 in 6 women and 1 in 17 men have experienced stalking victimization at some point during their lifetime severe enough that they feared they or someone close to them would be harmed, according to The Stalking Prevention, Awareness, and Resource Center (SPARC). Stalking is defined as a pattern of behavior directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to feel fear. It is also common to feel anger, frustration, hopelessness or despair.
Planchard categorized stalking as often falling into two categories at Georgia Tech: stalking that occurs after a breakup and repeated unwanted attempts to get someone to be in a relationship or friendship with you. “A student may think they can handle the situation on their own and continue to try to reason with the person, delaying when they seek help,” said Planchard. Stalking often occurs as a larger pattern of intimate partner violence and can be an indicator of escalation and danger. Many abusers use stalking behaviors to intimidate and control their partners or to try to convince them to return to the relationship. Stalking in real life can manifest in more subtle ways than a John Cusack movie and it’s important to understand the behaviors and red flags. HI VOICE Advocates, Jennifer Gagen and Planchard compiled the following tips to consider:
Trust your instincts. Survivors of stalking sometimes feel pressured by friends to downplay the person’s behavior, but stalking can be dangerous and it has a serious impact on the survivor’s day to day life. Remember that your safety is the most important. Friends and family members are often the first people who a victim tells about what’s going on, and their response heavily influences whether or not the victim seeks further help.
Call the police if you feel you may be in any immediate danger. Explain why the stalker’s actions are causing you fear. GTPD is available 24 hours per day to help keep you safe. They can contact the other person and tell them to leave you alone and also take further action as needed. You don’t have to go alone – bring a friend or have a VOICE Advocate join you.
Get connected with a VOICE Advocate. They can assist you in exploring your reporting options as well as safety planning and connecting you to resources. VOICE Advocates are confidential and available 24 hours per day. They can be reached at (404)385-3351 or (404)385-4464. After business hours, call GTPD at (404)894-2500, ask for the on-call advocate, and provide only your phone number.
Keep a record or log of each contact. Be sure to document all attempts to contact you, follow you, or spy on or monitor you, including any police reports or restraining orders filed. Stalkers can escalate quickly or sometimes stay quiet for a while, making you think they stopped. A record like this will help you remember details and track their patterns, even if you choose not to report.
Stalkers often use technology to contact their victims. Save all emails, text messages, photos, and postings on social networking sites as evidence of the stalking behavior. You may also want to consider ways to use your technology and your devices in a safer manner to limit someone’s access to your personal information. For more information, please visit the National Network to End Domestic Violence Safety Net Project’s Tech Safety Site. Especially at Tech, perpetrators find creative ways to monitor and contact the people they are stalking. Spoofing, spyware, and making fake accounts are just a few. You can get creative too to track and document what’s going on.
Every January is National Stalking Awareness Month and acts as a reminder to recognize and respond to the serious crime of stalking. Stalking is a terrifying and psychologically harmful crime in its own right as well as a predictor of potentially lethal violence. For more information regarding stalking and other forms of sexual violence visit healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/voice.
]]>Communications Officer II
]]>Cayenne
You may not know it, but cayenne is actually a type of chili pepper. It is commonly found in Southwestern American, Mexican, Cajun, and Creole cuisine. Its spicy kick comes from a substance called capsaicin. Capsaicin can actually provide pain relief. It works by reducing the number of pain signals sent to the brain.
Garlic
Common in most Mediterranean dishes, we all know the unique and familiar taste and smell of garlic. Garlic is an everyday spice that truly does not receive enough credit. It can add some serious flavor to so many different dishes, but did you know that it can also boost heart health? Research has shown that consuming garlic may help to keep blood vessels flexible, reduce cholesterol, and reduce triglycerides.
Ginger
Used for thousands of years, ginger is a tropical plant that comes in a variety of different, consumable forms- including candies, teas, cookies, even lollipops. Since we’ve all likely had a stomach ache at least once in our lives, we figured it’s a no brainer to add ginger to our list. Ginger has been shown to help provide relief for upset stomach, nausea, and vomiting. Research has also found that ginger can significantly reduce the severity of motion sickness, and may oftentimes prevent the symptoms entirely.
Turmeric
You may recognize this trendy food used in many Indian dishes. Curcumin, a substance found in turmeric, is what makes turmeric the wonder that it just so happens to be. The substance has been shown to help reduce inflammation in the body and decrease pain and swelling in people with arthritis.
Cinnamon
Yes, this is the same spice used in your pumpkin spice lattes from Starbucks. Without adding sugar, cinnamon can still add a sweet taste to your food, this is especially beneficial to people with high blood sugar or type 2 diabetes. Some research shows, cinnamon can aid in lowering blood sugar levels and reducing high blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
Want to learn more about how you can add all of these healthy ingredients to your dishes? Check out healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/tuesday-tastes for recipes, tips, and professional support. If you are considering taking one of these spices as a supplement, talk to your doctor or a dietitian about what may be right for you as they are not replacements for medical or nutrition recommendations. For more information about dietitian services at Georgia Tech go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/nutrition-counseling.
]]>Marketing Intern | Health and Wellbeing
]]>You came to Georgia Tech to pursue your passions, make a change in the world, and eventually…make some big bucks. But why not start now? A dollar may not seem like much money, but did you know that if you doubled that dollar every day for just 20 days you’d be a millionaire? As a matter of fact, Albert Einstein once said that “Compound interest is the 8th wonder of the world.” Now there isn’t just one way to make your money work for you, and there are a lot of money making techniques that we know will align best with your student lifestyle and ramen budget.
To help students with a better understanding of their finances and how to successfully transition in and out of their college experience, Health Initiatives has designed a course just for you. It is a highly personalized and self-paced experience. The interactive experience will help you learn key financial decision-making skills and apply them to important real-life scenarios. The three main topics of this course are as follows: school expenses, personal expenses, and career/post-graduation decisions. Here is some of the key information that you will be trained on through the Transit Financial Wellness online course:
78% of Americans live paycheck to paycheck and the average American household carrying over $137,000 in debt. This isn’t necessarily because of how much Americans make, but more so because of how they spend and their poor financial literacy. So, if you’re ready to break this cycle and control your money, rather than have it control you, take the next step and register for the Transit Financial Wellness course now by visiting healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/transit.
]]>Marketing Intern | Health and Wellbeing
]]>Mindfulness provides many benefits for academic success! Practicing this can lead to greater resilience, better sleep, heightened focus, and increased confidence. Likewise, it is beneficial for health and well-being. If practiced consistently, it can lower levels of stress, depression, or anxiety, lift moods, boost the immune system, and make you happier! We sat down with Dr. Hughes-Troutman and put together a guide for those unfamiliar with the term and how to start practicing it.
How you can start practicing mindfulness:
At Georgia Tech, it is not uncommon for students to believe they don’t have enough time to implement new routines, however, this is one that can really benefit you! Dr. Hughes-Troutman explained, “For many, starting a mindfulness practice is challenging due to a perceived lack of time, impatience over a need to feel different immediately, and doubts or perfectionism about ‘practicing it in the right way.’ It’s important to realize that it’s natural to initially feel restless when practicing mindfulness and it may be difficult to focus due to wandering thoughts and our a tendency to focus on ‘doing and not thinking.’”
So, what are the steps in practicing this?
What resources are available on campus to exercise mindfulness?
Mindfulness is a process and it’s never too late to start. For more information about mindfulness and events on campus go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/mindfulness.
]]>Marketing Intern | Health and Wellbeing
]]>Sunburns:
Almost all of us have fallen victim to this. We all enjoy soaking up some sun, but just make sure you don’t soak it all up. Dr. Holton recommends that you avoid prolonged time in the sun, while also diligently wearing sunscreen and frequently reapplying- yes, you still have to reapply it even if it’s waterproof. Make sure your sunscreen has a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 (blocks 97% of UVB rays) or more and is water resistant. Check out this story for more sunscreen tips.
Heat Illness:
Yes, there is such a thing as heat illness- and it’s just as awful as it sounds. The good news? It’s not too difficult to avoid. Dr. Holton recommends that you drink plenty of fluids before, during, and after heat exposure. You should also take frequent breaks to get out of the sun, while also avoiding being outside during the hottest part of the day. Don’t forget to also wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothes and to take the time to get acclimated to the heat.
Scooter Injuries:
Scooter injuries, who would’ve thought these could be so common? We’ve all seen someone wipe out while flying down freshman hill, so here are some of Dr. Holton’s recommendations to avoid this surprisingly common injury. Step one: wear a helmet! Wearing a helmet or some other type of head protection should be a no brainer. Also, try to avoid excessive speeds, be diligent in watching for road hazards and other vehicles, and avoid being distracted by an electronic device while riding.
Sexual Transmitted Infections (STIs)
A quick decision can hold lifelong consequences. Dr. Holton recommends practicing safe sex at all times. This doesn’t only include using protection, but also knowing your partner, and knowing yourself. For more information on safe sex tips go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/sexual-health.
Skin Rash:
As if pesky bug bites and irritating sunburns weren’t enough, you need to also be aware of the serious threat of getting a rash this summer. There are many things that cause rashes, especially in the summer. Dr. Holton recommends that you try to wear long pants and long sleeves anytime that you are hiking or walking. This will help you avoid getting dermatitis from contact with poison ivy and poison oak.
This summer make smart, informed decisions to stay out of the patient’s waiting room and spend time outside. You can find more tips on ways to stay healthy go to health.gatech.edu.
]]>Marketing Intern | Health and Wellbeing
]]>These days, you can find healthful foods almost everywhere. Many restaurants have their menus online — some with nutrition information readily available. You'll be able to choose the destination with the most appropriate options for yourself and go in ready to order the best meal and ask for substitutions where necessary.
Make a commitment to eat slowly. It takes about 20 minutes for your brain to get the message from your stomach that you are no longer hungry. Faster eaters can easily eat past fullness, while slower eaters tend to be more satisfied.
2. Remember the Plate
Be deliberate when ordering. Balance your meal by including healthful selections from all the different food groups such as lean protein foods, calcium-rich foods, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. For sandwich toppings, go with veggie options including lettuce, tomato, avocado, and onion; if using condiments, choose ketchup, mustard, relish or salsa.
Round out your meal by considering healthier side dishes, such as a side salad, baked potato or fruit. Boost the nutritional value of your baked potato by topping it with vegetables, salsa or chili.
3. Add to Your Meal
Think eating healthfully is all about what you can't eat? Focus on what healthy items you can add to your plate instead of only what foods to avoid. Look for whole-grain bread, pasta, and sides; opt for foods with healthy fats such as olive oil, avocados, nuts, and seeds; be sure to order lots of fruits and veggies; and go for lean meats or plant-based proteins like tofu, beans, and lentils..
4. Don't Go Overly Hungry
You sit down ravenous, and before you know it you've eaten several portions of bread or chips before your main meal arrives. If you're hungry before you leave for the restaurant, enjoy a snack such as a piece of fruit or a small portion of nuts. Or, at the restaurant, order a cup of broth-based soup or small salad before your entrée arrives.
5. Watch for the Wording
The way a dish is described on a menu can give you clues to how it's prepared. Look for words including "grilled," "broiled" or "steamed," meaning the food is cooked with moderate amounts of fat, and be mindful of dishes with descriptions such as "fried," "breaded," "smothered," "alfredo," "rich" and "creamy."
6. Ask, Ask, Ask
Don't be afraid to ask your server to help you healthy-up your meal. For example, you could ask for a salad in place of the usual fries or chips with a meal. You can also ask for items to be prepared with less oil or cheese, ask the server to take away the bread basket and serve salad with dressing on the side and request an appetizer portion of the main meal.
You can even often order "off-menu" — for example, ask what vegetarian dish the chef can prepare for you or if it's possible to make grilled chicken and steamed vegetables. Many restaurants are happy to comply. View the menu as a list of all the available options you can use to build the meal you want!
“If you enjoy dining out, don't think you have to stop if you want to choose more healthful options. With some preparation and savvy substitutions, you can order meals that are as nutritious as the ones you prepare at home,” said Johnson. For more information on intuitive eating go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/intuitive-eating.
]]>Employee well-being activators are ambassadors and champions of well-being within the Georgia Tech community. Activators serve as role models within their respective groups or departments, inspiring others to flourish and thrive. They serve as a well-being conduit relaying information about events and programming to their peers. “Activators are the ‘first to know’ about the latest health and well-being happenings on campus,” said Health Initiatives’ Health Educator Jocelyn Resnick. “Those who are selected will gain a variety of skills related to leadership, well-being, and fostering healthy behavior change that is not only relevant to their everyday lives but transferable into their future professional goals.”
Current activator NaKisha Green from Scheller College of Business said, “I am an activator because I am passionate about people and all aspects of LIFE… This opportunity would not only allow me to do what I’m passionate about but also engage staff with the Health and Well-being community… This position also gives me the opportunity to interact more with the student body and network beyond just my college. I am sharing my ideas and learning a lot from others. I am among other activators who share the same wants, passions, and goals.”
Employee well-being activators spend 3-4 hours each month hosting programs, leading healthy challenges, and integrating well-being into their office. Tierra Clemmons well-being activator in Housing said, “I have thoroughly enjoyed being a Well-Being Activator through the Office of Health Initiatives for my department! Love the Life You Live, Always is my motto; the Well-Being Activator role helps me share with others how to love the life they live by putting their well-being first throughout life’s journeys.”
Applications are currently open and reviewed on a rolling basis. It is highly recommended that every campus department have at least one activator. You can find a full list of current activators as well as the application at healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/wba.
]]>Communications Officer II | Health and Wellbeing
]]>Use Sunscreen
“Everyone should wear sunscreen as anyone can get skin cancer regardless of age, gender, or race”, says Health Initiatives health educator, Sarah Morales. When looking for an effective type of sunscreen, there are multiple characteristics to consider. First, make sure that you choose a broad spectrum sunscreen which protects the skin from UVA and UVB rays. Both UVA and UVB rays can cause cancer, however, UVA rays penetrate more deeply into the skin. Also, make sure your sunscreen has a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 (blocks 97% of UVB rays) or more and is water resistant. Even on cloudy days, up to 80 percent of the sun's UV rays can penetrate your skin. Make sure to apply sunscreen 15-20 minutes before heading outside and don't forget to reapply every 2 hours and after swimming or sweating excessively!
Seek Shade
An obvious, but important way to reduce sun exposure is to avoid staying in direct sunlight for long periods of time. Keep in mind that UV light is the strongest from 10 am to 4 pm, but if you are unsure about how strong the sun’s rays are, you can use the shadow test! Simply find your shadow and see if it is shorter than you are. If it is, then the sun’s rays are at their strongest.
Wear Protective Clothing
Put on your hat, shirt, and shades. With additional clothing, you are able to create a barrier between yourself and UV rays. Dark, tightly woven, and dry fabric typically provides the most protection. Also, keep in mind that a hat with a wider brim will be able to protect not only your head but also some parts of your neck as well! When finding an effective pair of sunglasses, look for the “Meets ANSI UV Requirements” and “UV absorption up to 400 nm” labels which signify that the glasses block 99% to 100% of the sun’s rays.
Avoid Tanning Beds and Sun Lamps
Tanning lamps give out both UVA and UVB rays which can cause long-term skin damage. Tanning bed usage has been linked to an increased risk of melanoma, especially if started before the age of 30. If you want a tan, consider using a sunless tanning lotion instead, which can darken your skin without the increased risk of skin cancer.
The sun can affect your skin in many ways which is why it is important to protect yourself from both UVA and UVB rays! Before you step outside during these warm summer months, remember to protect your skin.
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]]>Buy in season produce – fruits and vegetables of the season offer amazing tastes and significant nutritional value.
Make a plan that includes spontaneity – Have an idea of what you need before heading to the market, but keep it general so you can shop what’s in season and/or looks the best to you.
Talk to the farmers to learn more – They are very knowledgeable about their crops and can offer helpful tips for how to use more unique items.
Try something new or different – try stepping outside your comfort zone and experiment with a new to you food to increase variety.
Pick your time to shop – Going early ensures higher availability of all the items for the day, and you’re more likely to have the first pick. However, going later can be beneficial as towards the end of market times farmers may discount items.
Make a loop before buying – take a walk around the whole market to check out the offerings of the day. You can use this time to decide what you really need, plan what you could make with certain items, and compare the prices of similar items.
Know your market/be prepared – Be familiar with the types of payment your market accepts and come prepared. Have a budget of what you plan to spend on that market trip, and bring reusable grocery bags to carry all your market finds!
Happy shopping Georgia Tech! The Atlanta area is full of local markets this time of year. Check your local event calendars to find markets closest to you and enjoy the bounty of your community. This summer let Health Initiatives help you on your path to health and well-being! They are dedicated to cultivating a thriving environment that enhances lifelong well-being among students and employees who live, learn, and work in the Georgia Tech community. For more health and well-being, tips go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu.
]]>Communications Officer II | Health and Wellbeing
]]>Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown
Connell said, “this book provides practical strategies about how to maximize our time and our energy to optimize our choices and outputs so ultimately we can stress less and be more fulfilled. I love this book because it is so easy to just “do” and say yes to everything that comes our way. McKeown reminds us to regain control of health, well-being, and happiness.”
Educated by Tara Westover
“This is a powerful memoir that showcases self-discovery, grit, how to heal from trauma and rise above injustice, “according to Connell.
Rising Strong by Brene Brown
“This is a classic book that draws upon extensive research and personal experience to explore the paradoxes of courage: we become strong by embracing vulnerability, we dare more greatly when we acknowledge our fear. I’ve read this book twice and it still continues to resonate with me,” said Connell.
The Upward Spiral by Alex Korb
“For those who are into health and science, this is a great read about the neuroscience behind depression. Korb offers practical and effective approaches to managing and improving mental health,” said Connell.
Emotional Agility by Susan David
Connell said, “This book should be a prereq for all of us! Backed by research, David extinguishes the idea that you need to think more positively when you encounter undesirable emotional or behavioral issues. Instead, she promotes realistic, healthy thinking and offers strategies to build emotional agility based on “showing up, stepping out, walking your way, moving on, and thriving.”
This summer take advantage of your downtime and start new practices to improve your health and well-being. Let Health Initiatives help you get there! They are dedicated to cultivating a thriving environment that enhances lifelong well-being among students and employees who live, learn, and work in the Georgia Tech community. Check out healthinitiatives.gatech.edu to find new ways to make your health a priority!
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]]>Monday, May 13th 11 am – 12 pm Student Center room 320: Self Care Workshop
Join Director of Health Behavior, Dr.Tiffiny Hughes-Troutman for a self- care workshop. Self-care is the practice of taking steps to care for ourselves on many dimensions of well-being. This workshop will guide employees through an assessment of their self-care practices and learn new strategies and tools to thrive and reach your self-care goals.
Tuesday, May 14th 11 am – 2 pm Student Center Ballroom: Employee Health Expo
Come visit the health expo to learn more about on-campus and external partners that support employee health and well-being. Employees have the chance to win hourly door prizes! In addition, Certified Healthy winners will be announced at this event, therefore you don’t want to miss out on the fun!
Wednesday, May 15 11 am – 12 pm Student Center Peachtree Room: Be-Well Deskercises: Exercises You Can Do at Work
Are you chained to your desk with no time to exercise? Did you know that prolonged sitting every day can sabotage your health? Learn some simple tips on how to incorporate exercises into your workday while at your desk!
Thursday, May 16 4:30 pm Campus Recreation (CRC): President's Walk
Join President Peterson for his last walk around campus as President! The President’s Walk is a time-honored tradition where President “Bud” Peterson guides students and employees through campus along the Tyler Brown Pi Mile. Pre-registration check-in for the event and day of registration opens at 3:45 pm and you must have your BuzzCard to check in. The walk begins with opening ceremonies by President Peterson at 4:30 pm. The first 50 people to check in and complete at least one loop of the course will receive one of the final President’s Walk t-shirts. To register for the event go to crc.gatech.edu/presidents-walk.
Friday, May 17th: Free Day at the CRC
Meet your co-workers at the CRC for free access to the facility and its amenities, including free group fitness classes all day long. Non-members must bring their BuzzCard to the member services desk to receive your free day pass.
“Employee Wellbeing week is an opportunity for employees to learn, connect with their peers, and apply strategies to adopt and maintain optimal health and well-being throughout the year,” said Joi Alexander HI director of health promotion. For more information about this week-long event go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/wellbeing-week.
Do you want to learn about more events like this? Stay connected with the Health and Wellbeing newsletter. Subscribe today!
]]>Communications Officer II | Health and Wellbeing
]]>STDs are infections that are transmitted through sexual contact with an infected person. A person can contract two different types of STDs, viral and bacterial. Viral STDs such as HIV, Herpes, and Human Papillomavirus can be managed, but as of now, there is no cure. On the other hand, bacterial STDs can be treated through strong antibiotics if caught early enough. These STDs include Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and Syphilis. “The most common STD that we diagnose at Stamps is Chlamydia,” said Dr. Holton, but “HPV is the most common STD.” Symptoms vary with each STD but commonly include sores on the mouth and genitals, unusual discharge and pain when urinating.
The first step in preventing STDs is to practice safe sex. There is a common myth that using only hormonal birth control is enough to practice safe sex. This is untrue, as hormonal birth control does not protect against STDs. Condoms help reduce the risk of contracting an STD and help prevent against HIV. When using a condom, check the expiration date before use and remember to store them in a cool, dry place. This will help ensure that the condom you are using will protect you from contracting a sexually transmitted disease. Health Initiatives participates in a Condom Availability Program that provides the campus community with access to a variety of condoms, lubricants, and contraceptives. Visit https://healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/condoms for more information on this program!
Practicing monogamy will also help prevent the spread of STDs. Dr. Holton said, “Students who are sexually active who are not in a long-term monogamous relationship should consider annual screening for STD’s, including HIV.” Look for partners who are willing to have discussions about safe sex and are interested in protecting themselves from STDs. Being able to discuss sexual health openly and candidly with your partner is an important step in taking care of your health. Make sure to ask about your partner’s sexual history, including if they have been exposed to an STD.
The most important thing is to get tested. Testing frequently could help catch a disease and prevent the spread of infections. Dr. Holton recommended that “sexually active individuals under age 25 should get tested annually for chlamydia and gonorrhea.” Testing annually allows you a piece of mind and helps protect from an STD that could otherwise go unnoticed. “Individuals with higher risk, such as men who have sex with men and individuals who have multiple partners should consider more frequent screening,” said Dr. Holton.
SHS offers low-cost testing to students and eligible spouses. Contact SHS immediately if you have unusual symptoms or have been exposed to an STD. Female students and transgender students should contact Women’s Health at 404.894.1434 to schedule an appointment for testing. Visit health.gatech.edu/stitesting for more information on how to get tested. Male students can get screened through the primary care clinic. Appointments can be scheduled online at health.gatech.edu or by calling 404-894-1420. It is important to get medical care if you experience “urinary discomfort, penile discharge, abnormal vaginal discharge, genital sores or lower abdominal pain,” recommend Dr. Holton.
Make sure to make your sexual health a priority not only in April but every month thereafter. Your body and your partner will thank you. For more information on safe sex, practices go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/sexual-health.
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Tiffany Montgomery, 3rd-year Computer Engineering major said, “If I’m pressed for time, I’ll walk to class without my headphones on and my phone tucked away. I try to be mindful of what’s going on and take a breath. The hammocks are also amazing and are a great way to relax before class.”
Tristan Gaskins, 4th-year Mechanical Engineering said, “I like to go chill in some of the more nature-y parts of campus, either via hammock, bench or blanket. Some places I go are the "forest" between Howey and Manufacturing Related Disciplines Complex (MRDC), the garden at the top of Skiles stairs, the CULC roof, the courtyard at the bottom of Biotech, the Towers/Glenn Quad, and the Burger Bowl. Overall, just somewhere I can see animals and not hear only police sirens or people.”
Andrea Sagredo Barrio, 4th-year Spanish international student said, “I have taken up yoga and boxing with the GT boxing club. It’s been a fun way to stay fit and reduce stress at the same time, plus it’s on a weekly basis so it’s something I can do consistently. We’ve even had some competitions off-campus, which have been really fun.”
Cece Lu, 1st year Neuroscience major said, “I take a hammock nap at least once a week honestly. I also play piano, so going to the pianos around campus is nice. Some other classics for me are running or working out in general, yoga, or if you’re like me and not a very active person, drawing/painting and reading- any of those hobbies where you can get really into them and turn off your brain for a bit. Also, sometimes when I’m too lazy to do any of that I’ll just lie in bed and listen to music with headphones, focusing only on the music. It’s kind of a pseudo-meditation, but gen-Z style.”
Minju Kwon, 4th-year Computational Media major said, “I like playing volleyball! I’m not in a club or anything, but a few times a week at the end of the day I’ll meet up with some friends on the fourth floor of the Campus Recreation Complex, and we play there. It’s relaxing and refreshes my mind after a long day of classes, plus it’s a good way to get a nice dose of exercise while having fun at the same time.
Managing stress looks different for everyone and it’s important that you find the strategies that work best for you. You can learn more about stress reduction tips and strategies at healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/stress. Whether you’re interested in sports, arts, meditation, or just enjoying the beautiful campus views, Georgia Tech has something for everyone. Don’t let the stress of finals overwhelm you- this spring, be sure to take some time for yourself and find new strategies to limit your stress.
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Why did you decide to pursue a degree in sociology?
I enjoyed studying sociology, because it allowed me to understand how systems, institutions, and groups shape the word around us.
Where did you go to school?
I attended Claflin University in Orangeburg, SC.
Tell me about your role as a health educator?
Four of the educators in Health Initiatives are generalist, However, I focus entirely on sexual violence prevention. I lead most of the campus wide primary prevention efforts to end sexual violence at Georgia Tech.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I enjoy witnessing students have "a ha" moments. Student often times need to work to unlearn a lot of negative ideas about sex and body autonomy. In many of the workshops I have facilitated, students have moments where the concepts click and it is a beautiful experience to witness.
April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), why is this month important?
Our local and national community is plagued by a multitude of social concerns competing for solution driven attention. SAAM is an important month, because it compels us as a community and nation to pause, reflect, and have intentional conversations about the solutions needed to end sexual violence.
How can Georgia Tech stay involved in this issue past April?
The campus community has a variety of opportunities available for anyone -student, faculty, or staff- to get involved in the work to end sexual violence at Tech.
PAUSE: People against unwanted sexual experiences is a student group on campus.
VOICE Peer Education is a student group that does peer-to-peer sexual violence prevention education throughout campus.
Sexual Violence Prevention Alliance (SVPA) is an interdisciplinary community that is engaged and committed to collaboratively ending sexual violence at Georgia Tech. You can also request a VOICE presentation for your residence hall, chapter or student organization.
For more information about VOICE and how to get involved go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/ voice.
]]>Communications Officer II | Health and Wellbeing
]]>As you begin to schedule your BBQ’s it’s important to watch for symptoms of Salmonella. Dr. Holton said that some symptoms include, “nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever.” It can sometimes be difficult to tell these symptoms apart from those associated with a typical stomach bug. “Salmonella infection is commonly associated with ingestion of poultry, eggs and milk products, so a recent history of eating these might be a clue to consider Salmonella,” remarked Dr. Holton. If you or any of your dinner guests experience any prolonged symptoms, it might be time to seek medical attention. Additionally, if you experience “symptoms of dehydration, including lightheadedness, dizziness, increased thirst, or decreased urination, it is important that you talk to a doctor. It is necessary that you speak to a doctor if you experience any prolonged symptoms, however Salmonella typically resolves on its own with supportive treatment such as fluids and electrolytes,” said Dr. Holton.
There are many ways to ensure that you do not contract Salmonella. When cooking meat, Galante said, “the safest way to tell that meat is cooked is to ensure it has reached the recommended safe internal temperature.” Steak, pork and fish all need to be cooked until the internal temperature is 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Chicken and ground beef need to reach a temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. When it comes to preparing veggies, it is important to clean them with warm water. Galante stated that an important rule of thumb for cleaning vegetables is, “unless the package notes that the veggies have been pre-washed, wash them under water before eating, cutting or cooking.” Galante concluded by saying, “tips for preventing Salmonella include: frequent handwashing, store raw meats and poultry away from other foods, cook to safe internal temperatures and refrigerate foods safely and promptly.” Dr. Holton recommended that students should “use separate utensils and cutting boards for raw and cooked foods.” Enjoy your BBQ’s and stay safe with these food safety tips this spring and summer.
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]]>Refresh your fridge.
One place to begin your personal spring cleaning is your refrigerator! It’s easy for these to get dirty and filled with expired pasta sauces, but this Spring is the perfect time to give yours a fresh start. To begin, consider wiping it down with a mild cleaning mix. The HI dietitians Amber Johnson and Leah Galante recommend, tossing the stuff you know you don’t want, such as old condiments- and clean off what you want to save. Then, restock it with a nutritious mix of foods that make you feel good. Stock up on frozen and fresh vegetables and fruits, as well as foods high in calcium and protein. Your personal spring cleaning is also a chance to mix up your eating habits, so why not try out some new recipes? Here is a list of recipe ideas created by HI dietitian Galante to get you started.
Detox from tech.
Another step you can take to refresh your mindset is to do a tech detox. Stepping away from technology can make for a nice change of pace, and allow you to rediscover what you love about your real-life surroundings. Set specific goals for yourself, and help yourself along the process. HI health educator Sarah Morales recommends, “uninstalling the apps you want to avoid or changing your notification settings. Before starting your detox, it’s good to think about what you’ll do with that free time- if all your hobbies involve technology, plan on taking up some that don’t.”
Try a new hobby.
Picking up a new hobby can be really helpful with your tech detox, plus add new excitement to your day-to-day routine. Maybe you’ve been wanting to learn a new language, or improve your art skills? Now’s the time to give that a shot! Morales said, “don’t worry about being perfect at it- the goal is to gain some new skills and have fun. Who knows though, maybe you’ll discover your new passion!”
Set aside time for self-care.
As the semester draws to a close and we get wrapped up in finals and summer plans, we might find ourselves forgetting to take time for our mental health. This spring, as the semester picks up Morales recommends, “making plans to ensure you stay happy and healthy through those extra hectic times. Learn to be aware of your symptoms of stress, as well as what techniques best help you manage it.”
Examine your relationships.
The people we surround ourselves with can be some of the most important factors in our mental health, so this spring, it can be a good idea to look at your current relationships with a fresh eye. HI VOICE health educator Deontez Wimbley said, “ask yourself, are they healthy? Are they mutually beneficial? Do they make me happy? Now might be the time to end some toxic relationships or distance yourself from negative acquaintances. On the other hand, you might also find you want to reach out to an old friend, or contact a family member you haven’t seen recently!”
Fix your sleep schedule.
"Setting up a consistent schedule for sleeping and waking-up, as well as designing a comfortable bedroom environment, can greatly impact your circadian rhythm,” said HI health educator, JaPeera Edmonds. “Work on practicing healthy sleep habits such as unplugging before bed, avoiding caffeine in the afternoon, and establishing a regular bedtime routine. Your body and mind will thank you!” said Edmonds.
Organize your workspace.
Edmonds recommends, “Going through your clutter, and getting rid of all those paper scraps and dead pens. Clear off some open space to work with fewer distractions. Prioritize your workflow by putting the tools and documents you actually use in the most easy-to-access places.” Creating a peaceful and productive work-space can make the daily grind just a little easier.
Incorporate exercise into your week.
Exercising is something you can do at any point during the day- on a study break, in between classes, or as a way to burn off stress after a day of work. Some of the simplest ways to get started are to take up walking, jogging, swimming, or going to the Campus Recreation Complex (CRC). HI health educator Jocelyn Resnick said, "our bodies are designed to move! Find an activity that feels good and brings you joy. Exercise should never feel like a punishment. “
Declutter your mind.
Today’s world is full of distractions, it can be easy to find ourselves distracted without even realizing it. While prioritizing your health, work on giving your mind some quiet as well. Resnick said, “reexamine what sources bring you joy and inspiration. Consider going through your social media and reflecting on who you follow. Do those people lift you up or tear you down? Unfollow accounts that contribute to negative thoughts. Work on practicing mindfulness. You can try meditating for a few minutes everyday. If you work best with guidance from others, Georgia Tech has both meditation and Yoga clubs.”
Return to your goals and resolutions from New Year’s.
If you’re like many of us, you made resolutions at the start of the year- and if you’re also like many of us, you’ve let a few (or all) fall by the wayside. This is totally understandable! Now that the weather is nice and the world is teeming with opportunities for new beginnings, why not check back in with those goals? HI health educator Elaine Miller said, “Ask yourself, now that I’m further into the year, what might I want to change? How can I continue from where I am to move closer to reaching these goals? Hopefully, you will walk away with a renewed motivation to make yourself into the person you want to be.”
Happy spring cleaning! HI cultivates a thriving environment that enhances lifelong well-being among students and employees who live, learn, and work in the Georgia Tech community. If you are interested in connecting with HI go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu.
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Gallup’s CliftonStrengths is an online assessment that measures the specific order of your talents to discover what you naturally do best. Gallup research finds that people who use their CliftonStrengths are more engaged and productive at work and 3x more likely than others to have an excellent quality of life. The assessment helps you discover what makes you exceptional and how you can maximize your potential. It uncovers which talents you rely on to build relationships, think strategically, execute plans and influence others to accomplish goals.
HI health educator and creator of the workshop Elaine Miller said, “knowing your CliftonStrengths helps you speak more easily about what you excel at and how you work best. Being able to communicate your strengths effectively using more precise and clear language is the beauty of the CliftonStrengths assessment.” Join HI for an advanced hour of training to find new ways to best use your strengths to develop your greatest talents. This workshop will aid you in rethinking your strengths and strategizing the best ways to use them- helping prepare you to ace that next interview, learn to promote yourself well, and succeed in getting that job, internship, or leadership position!
All members of the Georgia Tech community who have previously taken the CliftonStrength’s assessment are invited to register for this workshop on Apr 18, from 11am-12pm, in Student Center room 322. For more information about this and other professional opportunities with HI go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/professional.
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]]>Healthy Jacket Peer Educators:
Students are invited to join fellow campus leaders who serve as healthy lifestyle role-models for their peers. They are extensively trained volunteers who give presentations on a variety of health topics, design and implement health programs for students and collaborate with campus partners to create a healthy Georgia Tech community. The application is open and available at healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/healthyjacket.
Teal Ribbon Day:
VOICE, Georgia Tech's sexual violence prevention and response initiative, invites the entire Georgia Tech community to participate in the sixth annual Teal Ribbon Day as a show of support for survivors in our community and a dedication to preventing sexual violence on campus. You can join a campus wide group photo on April 11th at noon at the Georgia Tech campanile. Even if you can’t attend the group photo you can take a picture of yourself, colleagues/friends, or department/student organization, and submit the photos, along with your name and affiliation, to voice@gatech.edu on April 10. You can also get involved by joining the Sexual Violence Prevention Alliance (SVPA) which is comprised of students, faculty and staff members across campus committed to preventing sexual assault on campus, increasing awareness of the issue, and increasing the number of students who seek assistance from campus and community resources.
Wellness Coaching:
Wellness coaching is a new service for students (both undergrad and graduate) to sign up for if interested in enhancing personal and academic goals. Coaching aims to be very forward thinking, strengths based, and rooted in the utilization of motivational interviewing techniques. It encourages personal responsibility in which students utilize reflective thinking, self-discovery, and self-efficacy to discover their full potential. HI Health Educator Elaine Miller said, “coaching is centered on the topic of wellness which can encompass many more specific goals. For example, possible areas to explore in coaching include but are not limited to: fitness, sleep, healthy eating, stress, time management, organization, relationships, and future plans.” If interested in wellness coaching register at healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/wellness-coaching.
Mindful Mondays:
Every Monday, HI hosts Mindful Mondays: Drop In & Relax. This program is focused on helping individuals relax and de-stress with short guided mindfulness exercises! Join this relaxing space to learn and practice simple mindfulness techniques and stress management skills that you can easily incorporate into your daily routine. The entire Georgia Tech community is invited to attend. The last session of the semester is April 22nd.
HI cultivates a thriving environment that enhances lifelong well-being among students and employees who live, learn, and work in the Georgia Tech community. If you are interested in connecting with HI go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu.
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Health & Well-Being
]]>Q: What is your definition of gratefulness?
Evan: I think gratefulness is recognizing the people and circumstances that led you to the place you are at and contributed to your successes. It can be recognized for isolated actions like showing encouragement during a tough time, or for longer contributions of friendship and mentorship.
Dr. Hughes-Troutman: To me, being grateful is feeling and expressing appreciation for what you have.
Q: How do you practice gratefulness?
Evan: Whenever something good happens in my life, I try to take time to think about the people who contributed to that success. For SGA, it's cabinet members and committee chairs who worked with me to bring an initiative to fruition. For personal successes, it's usually family and friends. In either case, recognizing them in some way is putting into practice those feelings of gratitude.
Dr. Hughes-Troutman: I start every morning by intentionally reflecting on who and what I am grateful for, which sets the tone and direction for my day. I express thanks to others who have impacted me, and I encourage others to do the same.
Q: Why is it important to incorporate gratefulness into your life?
Evan: I think gratefulness makes people more mindful of their place in the world, encourages humility, and fosters compassion. Without it, your perception of yourself can be off to a point that affects the decisions you make and the relationships you build.
Dr. Hughes-Troutman: There are so many benefits of incorporating gratefulness in your life, including increased energy, optimism, and empathy.
Q: How does gratefulness affect your day to day life?
Evan: Gratefulness reminds me that people care about me and, as a result, improves my day-to-day life. I take more time to interact with those around me and move away from self-reliance.
Dr. Hughes-Troutman: Gratitude is a positive emotion that serves a purpose. The behavioral aspects of gratitude – for example, saying thank you – is just one part of it. Experiencing gratitude and feeling gracious is naturally intrinsically rewarding. Day to day, individuals who are grateful feel happier, have better health and are more effective in their personal and work relationships.
Q: What are a few things that you are grateful for at the moment?
Evan: I am grateful for my team in SGA, the opportunities I have to interact with leaders at Georgia Tech, and for those who helped me secure a professional future post-graduation.
Dr. Hughes-Troutman: I am grateful to have a family who is healthy and happy. I feel grateful to have a job where I can care for the health and well-being of students and employees at Georgia Tech as well as work with colleagues who are dedicated to resilience and flourishing like I am.
Gratitude is an important tool to help you find joy and enhance your outlook on life. If you need assistance learning tools to incorporate gratitude in your life by practicing gratitude or want to have some extra tips to help you think more positively, go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu /wellness-coaching.
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]]>Every year in April HI is dedicated to recognizing National Sexual Assault Awareness month with two signature events. The first is Take Back the Night on Monday, April 1st at 7 pm at the Campanile. This is an annual candlelight vigilance for survivors of sexual violence, intimate partner violence, and stalking. Come out and listen to the personal stories of those affected and show your support with a candlelight vigil. Following, this event is teal ribbon day on April 11th. Make sure to wear a teal ribbon to help paint Georgia Tech teal and show support of survivors. You can pick up a ribbon at the Health Initiatives office throughout the month. Go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/saam to learn more about these two events and locate ribbon pickup locations.
Did you know that every Monday at 4:00 p.m., Health Initiatives hosts mindful Mondays in the Student Center, Juniper Room? All students are welcome to drop in during the one-hour-long event to color or participate in guided mindfulness exercises. “Mindfulness is being awake in your current experience rather than dwelling on the past or anticipating the future,” said health educator Sarah Morales. “It helps alleviate the stress and anxiety you may be feeling as a college student.” No appointments or registration is needed for this event. The last date of the semester is April 22nd. For more information about the different resources we provide related to mindfulness, check out healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/mindfulness.
The last free HIV testing event of the semester is April 2nd. Getting tested is important to respect yourself and your partner(s). In addition, getting tested helps you to have open, honest, and accurate conversations with your sexual partner(s), which can deepen your relationship and intimacy. For more information about HIV testing check out healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/hiv.
Everyone is invited to the final two pet therapy dates of the semester on April 12th and April 24th. Pet therapy is a guided interaction for all members of the Georgia Tech community with trained (and really cute) dogs. “Interacting with therapy dogs has been proven to lower blood pressure, lower cortisol levels, and improve [your] sense of belonging,” said health educator Jocelyn Resnick. Find all dates and locations at healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/pet-therapy.
Have you taken the CliftonStrengths assessment? The CliftonStrengths assessment uncovers which talents you rely on to build relationships, think strategically, execute plans and influence others to accomplish goals. Find out how to use your strengths to your advantage at the Advanced Strengths workshop on April 15th from 11 a.m. to noon in the Student Center Room 322. This workshop is for both Georgia Tech employees and students who have already taken the assessment and know their top five strengths. Registration is preferred as spots are limited. Find out everything you need to know at healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/professional.
The last Ted Talk of the semester is April 2nd. This month we will be discussing the popular talk, The Danger of a Single Story by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie from 1 p.m. – 2 p.m. in the Student Center room 343.
We understand that Georgia Tech can be extremely busy and stressful, but taking time for yourself to relax and improve your mental health and well-being is more important than any assignment (yes, we said it). Take a small chunk out of your day and stop by one (or all) of these amazing programs—you won’t regret it! For a full list of programs and events go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu.
]]>Communications Officer II
Health & Well-Being
]]>An average person has close to 60,000 thoughts a day. With all of these thoughts rushing around, it can be hard to focus and remain positive. Creative endeavors such as drawing, or coloring can boost your happiness as it releases dopamine into your brain. Dopamine is a natural anti-depressant and it creates a feeling of happiness and euphoria in the body. It has also been proven that creative acts reduce depression, anxiety and stress levels as it gives your brain a creative outlet to focus on. Music therapy has also been shown to calm neural activity in the brain which can reduce anxiety and have a positive effect on neurophysiological and emotional responses.
Writing and listening to music have been shown to boost your immune system and make your body healthier. Writing increases your levels of CD4 lymphocytes, which keep you healthy by stimulating other immune cells to fight infection. Sitting down and listening to your favorite song can also help to stimulate and rejuvenate your immune system. Music affects our brains in many complex ways, stimulating the limbic system and tempering our response to stressful situations.
Increase cognitive function
Music improves the connection and cooperation between the two sides of your brain. Studies show that people who play musical instruments have better communication between the left and right side of the brain, which improves cognitive functions. Playing an instrument can help improve reading and math skills, problem-solving and memory retention.
Being creative can help prevent degenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and Dementia. Creativity helps to reduce cognitive decline in the brain and can help keep your brain sharp. Creative activities also help you to relax which can help lower your blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease later in life.
Creativity is more than just a way to practice self-care. Health Initiates is committed to creating outlets for Georgia Tech to see these benefits and have opportunities to practice creativity. Edmonds said, “Our programs and events, aim to give the Georgia Tech community ways to engage in activities that allow them to be creative because we see all the wonderful benefits. Whether it’s creating vision boards or developing programs, we want to give our community the opportunity to be as creative as possible!” For more information on how to stay healthy and thriving, go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu.
]]>Marketing Intern
]]>Sexual violence affects people of all gender identities and compromises the safety and well-being of the entire Georgia Tech community. An estimated one in five women, and one in 17 men, experience sexual assault by the time they graduate from college. Health Initiatives along with the Women’s Resource Center developed these events throughout the month for the entire Georgia Tech community.
SAAM kicks off with the 25th annual Take Back the Night event on Monday, April 1 at 7pm at the Campanile (rain location: Student Center Theater). This candlelight vigil honors survivors of sexual and relationship violence. Students and staff will share stories of their experience with sexual or relationship violence, either through anonymous submissions or by reading about it at the vigil. VOICE advocate Jennifer Gagen of Health Initiatives shared that “Take Back the Night is a time of reflection and community to support survivors and listen to their stories. It’s a beautiful event that gives a voice to so many who often feel like theirs is lost.” All members of the Georgia Tech community are encouraged to attend in order to support and elevate the voices of survivors.
The month culminates with the annual Teal Ribbon Day on Thursday, April 11. Teal is the color of sexual violence awareness and Teal Ribbon Day is about embracing our voices to inspire action and create lasting change. Check out where you can find a teal ribbon on campus below:
Help paint Georgia Tech teal by wearing these ribbons in support of survivors on Thursday, April 11th. “It is extremely powerful to show a unified display of support for survivors and advocacy for sexual violence prevention across campus,” said VOICE advocate Amanda Planchard of Health Initiatives. You can either join in a campus-wide group photo at the Georgia Tech Campanile at noon or wear a teal ribbon throughout the entire month and take a photo of yourself, your peers, friends, or colleagues. Send it to voice@health.gatech.edu so we can share on our Facebook page (Georgia Tech Health Initiatives). If you share your photo on Instagram make sure and tag Health Initiatives (Instagram: @GTHealthInitiatives).
You can learn more about VOICE and all of these events, by visiting healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/voice. Students who want to be involved throughout the year can join the student organization, People Against Unwanted Sexual Experiences (PAUSE) by emailing pause.GT@gmail.com.
]]>Communications Officer II
Health & Well-Being
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Nutrition 101 - introduces the basic concepts of healthy eating and wellness, through an interactive game that debunks common nutrition myths. “Nutrition 101 is a great introduction to nutrition basics and offers helpful information and background on why fad diets and extreme approaches to nutrition aren’t scientifically sound,” said Johnson.
Intuitive Eating - intuitive eating is an evidence-based non-diet approach that will help you create a balanced and compassionate relationship with food and your body. This session introduces the 10 principles of Intuitive Eating. Designed for individuals wishing to explore and discuss their relationship with food, dieting and/or body image. “The Intuitive Eating presentation reviews the principles, addresses the whys for choosing an intuitive eating approach, and dispels many myths that are often fueled by the media and diet culture with the goal of promoting healthful and balanced relationships with our bodies and food,” said Galante.
Eating on a Budget - explores strategies for managing the balance between food, time, and money. Learn how to make smart and cost saving decisions your stomach and wallet will thank you for. Johnson said, “being on a budget and nourishing yourself well aren’t mutually exclusive. This presentation provides helpful information on how to choose healthful options that support your physical and financial wellness.” Galante said, “this presentation provides many ideas for combining nutrient dense, budget-friendly meals and snacks to fuel your day.”
Body Image and Disordered Eating - Learn more about societies and our own influences on body image, and how it can affect self-worth, eating, and activity habits. *Trigger warning- Disordered eating diagnoses are explored and described, and resources for seeking help are provided. Johnson said, “Disordered eating habits are more common and more serious than many people believe. Explore how society’s body image ideals can affect our eating and activity habits in unhealthy ways.”
National Nutrition Month may be almost over but there are plenty of opportunities to continue the conversation all year long. Check out these and all other pre- planned presentation topics at healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/presentations.
]]>Spending time with a dog or a cat has been shown to elevate your levels of serotonin and dopamine, which help you to relax. Dog owners are less likely to suffer from depression, anxiety, and high blood pressure. Georgia Tech Health Initiatives recognizes the power of the paw and has begun to host pet therapy sessions year round. We asked Georgia Tech students what they love about pet therapy on campus!
“Pet therapy gives me a chance to relax and forget about the stressors in my life”, remarked third-year literature media and communications student Dana Hicky. “There is something about puppy cuddles that make you remember that your happiness is the most important and other things will fall into place,” said Hicky. “I like that you can stop by for a minute and pet a dog, or you can stay for as long as you want,” said third-year, chemical engineering student, Sarah Hall. “Sometimes I come out of my class and there are puppies and it always makes my day better.”
Spencer Schiavo, a fourth-year industrial engineering student said, “Pet therapy is something that everyone should do. Whether things are going well, or they have had a tough day, it is always nice to see dogs when you are walking around campus. When petting dogs, you can’t help but adjust your mood to theirs.” Hicky said, “students should stop by a pet therapy session in order to take a break from school.” Hall agrees with her in saying, “Mental Health is incredibly important, and if stopping to pet a dog makes people happy, then everyone should do it.”
Health Initiatives offers three more pet therapy sessions this semester. These sessions are open to the entire Georgia Tech community.
March 26th 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm – Aerospace Engineering
April 12th 11:00 am – 12:30 pm – College of Computing
April 24th 12:00pm – 1:30pm – Student Center 3:20
For more information about pet therapy and other Health Initiatives events go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/pet-therapy.
]]>Marketing Intern
]]>In the words of Maria Krakovski, “self-care is important to ensure you are living your best life.” Stevens agrees with her in saying, “self-care is important because if you don’t take proper care of yourself internally, it’s difficult to succeed in external aspects of your life like in school or your career.” Taking a moment for your self will actually benefit you in the long run. Breathing and giving yourself a mental break allows you to focus harder, instead of longer, on the task at hand.
Taking breaks is an important part of self-care, but there are many other ways to give your mind and body a much-needed break. Healthy Jacket peer educator, Anna Rappaport, practices self-care by “going to sleep when I feel tired, going to the gym at least four days a week, and eating well.” Your body needs rest and nourishment in order to be at its best. Stevens’s practices self-care by “practicing watercolors and sketching in order to take creative breaks.” How you give your body and mind a break depends on what works best for you and what leaves you feeling refreshed and energized. However, it’s important to be consistent and take that break for yourself when you need it.
As a student, it can be difficult to balance school, work and other stressors with taking care of yourself. Rappaport schedules time into her schedule for self-care. She said, “If I know I want to go do something fun later in the week, I make sure I get all pertinent assignments and studying done earlier in the week. Doing this, allows me to create holes in my schedule throughout the week to be able to hit the gym, or grab a bite to eat with a friend, or simply relax and watch an episode of Criminal Minds!” Krakovski is a planner as well. She says, “I plan out my days usually a night or two before, ensuring I get enough sleep so I can accomplish all the tasks I need to get done, plus allow room for self-care activities.”
Practicing self-care is necessary for your well-being and it is important to not feel guilty about taking a break. Stevens said it best when she said, “I also acknowledge when I really do need to indulge and take a bubble bath and have some ice cream, while not feeling guilty or selfish about it because we all deserve to treat ourselves once in a while. Self-care isn't selfish, it shows strength and respect for yourself. ”
For more information on how to practice self-care, go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu /self-care.
]]>Marketing Intern
]]>Incorporate Exercise into your Day
Remember to add a couple of minutes of exercise into your every day. Take a run on the beach, go on a hike or take a bike ride. If you can’t get outside, “there are a variety of bodyweight exercises that could be incorporated while traveling if there is no access to a gym or equipment” recommended CRC fitness coordinator, Stephanie Belcher. “Some of these include running, air squats, pushups, sit ups, lunges, mountain climbers and burpees.” Adding some quick exercises into your day will keep you stay healthy and energized throughout your trip.
Plan Ahead when Dining Out
Planning meals ahead of time will help ensure that you are eating healthy while taking a trip. Health Initiatives dieticians, Leah Galante, and Amber Johnson recommend looking at the menu online ahead of time. “You'll be able to choose the destination with the most appropriate options for yourself and go in ready to order the best meal and ask for substitutions where necessary,” said Galante. “If you enjoy dining out, don't think you have to stop if you want to choose more healthful options. With some preparation and savvy substitutions, you can order meals that are as nutritious as the ones you prepare at home” remarked the dieticians.
The dieticians also recommend that students “Make a list of the meals you plan to cook and what you’ll need for those meals before heading to the grocery store to prevent purchasing more than you’ll need.” Planning your meals ahead of time will help limit the time you spend at the store and will save you money in the long run.
Don’t go Overly Hungry to Restaurants
It is important to eat balanced meals while on spring break but try not to overeat. “If you're hungry before you leave for the restaurant, enjoy a snack such as a piece of fruit or small portion of nuts. Or, at the restaurant, order a cup of broth-based soup or small salad before your entrée arrives, recommends Johnson. This will prevent you from eating several portions of bread or the appetizer before your main dish arrives. It’s also important to remember that you’re on vacation, so relax, enjoy all of your meals and snacks, try new foods, and be sure to make time for dessert, too!
Take Care of your Skin
The skin is the body’s largest organ, so it is incredibly important that students take care of it! Health Initiatives health educator, Sarah Morales, recommended that students “apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant, SPF 30 or higher sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going out.” Be sure to “reapply every two hours and/or after swimming.” In the words of Morales, “Everyone should be protecting their skin every day, not just on vacation.”
Whether you spend your week at home or in the Bahamas it’s important to incorporate healthy habits wherever you may be this spring break! For additional tips to stay healthy all year long go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu.
]]>Marketing Intern
]]>There are three Certified Healthy levels awarded: Gold, Silver, and Bronze. Gold groups have created a culture of health, well-being, and caring that is ingrained in their department or organization, and promote health in all five dimensions of well-being. Silver groups influence a healthy community within their department and provide well-being opportunities for their group members in the majority of dimensions. Bronze groups are working toward creating such a community within their department. They may be strong in one dimension, but need to expand their efforts into all five.
Recognition for Certified Healthy groups will be given to employees at the Health Expo and students at the Up With The White and Gold ceremony on April 15. Applications open March 1 and close March 31. For more information and to apply, go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/certified-healthy.
]]>Marketing Intern
]]>Drinking smart can mean different things to different people. According to Health Initiatives Health Educators, Elaine Miller and Sarah Morales, “Students might not choose to drink at all and that can be a smart decision for them. Students who do make the decision to drink should follow healthy strategies in order to reduce the risk of having a bad night. Not all strategies work the same for everyone, and it is important to take steps that work well for you as an individual.” If you do choose to drink, try following these tips from the Health Educators to see what works for you: “designate a sober driver or have money for an Uber, eat before and/or during drinking, alternate alcoholic beverages with non-alcoholic beverages, set a limit before you go out and stick with it, and pace your drinks to one per hour.”
While a night of controlled drinking can be enjoyable, “A night of heavy drinking can have short- and long-term effects on both your physical and emotional well-being. Headaches, dehydration, and other hangover symptoms can be the first to occur.” Not only does heavy drinking affect your body, but it can also “impact your relationships with others and with yourself.”
The scariest effect of heavy binge drinking could be alcohol poisoning. It is important to know the signs of alcohol poisoning. If you think someone might have alcohol poisoning use the acronym PUBS to remember the signs. P - puking while passed out. U - unresponsive to pinching or shaking. B - breathing is irregular, slow, shallow, or stopped and S - skin is blue, cold, or clammy. Remembering these signs can help save someone’s life.
If you think someone is at risk for alcohol poisoning, do not be afraid to get the paramedics involved, even if you have been drinking. You will be covered by the Good Samaritan provision. The Good Samaritan policy applies to any student or student organization who seeks medical assistance for themselves or another individual whose health or safety is at risk. The policy was created to ensure that students do not delay seeking medical assistance for fear of disciplinary action by the Institute. No formal Institute disciplinary actions or sanctions will be imposed for violations of the rules regarding alcohol or drug use by the reporting students. However, students may be provided with resources on drug and alcohol counseling and/or education as appropriate.
If you choose to drink on campus, there are rescores available should you need them. Health Initiatives offers wellness coaching, which allows students to work with a coach in setting goals and working towards reaching them. The Counseling Center offers students free and confidential individual and group counseling along with housing the Collegiate Recovery Program, which provides support and a safe environment to help students achieve growth and success in their recovery. Wreckless is a student organization that challenges the campus culture around partying and provides a safe alternative for socializing and showing school spirit. Stamps Health Services can offer a clinical perspective on how personal alcohol intake is affecting individual students.
For more information on binge drinking and resources available visit healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/alcohol.
]]>Marketing Intern
]]>Nutrition plays a large role in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Six in ten adults in the United States have a chronic disease and poor nutrition is one of the largest risk factors. This March celebrate National Nutrition Month by meeting dietitians Amber Johnson and Leah Galante at any of the month-long events. You can find all events listed at healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/nutrition. In the meantime get to know Amber and Leah better and find out why they love doing what they do every day!
Q: Where did you go to school?
Amber: I did my undergrad here at Georgia Tech (BS Chemistry), and grad school at Georgia State (MS Health Sciences, Emphasis in Nutrition and Urban Health)
Leah: I completed my BS in Culinary Nutrition from Johnson & Wales University in Providence, RI and my BS/MS in Dietetics and Coordinated Program required for Dietitian Training from D’Youville College in Buffalo, NY
Q: What would you say was your “A-ha” moment that made you realize you wanted to be a dietitian?
Amber: After spending several years in a lab, I realized I wanted to connect more with the people I was trying to help. I’ve always loved the logic of how different foods can affect our health and wellness, so it was an easy and natural switch for me.
Leah: I have always loved cooking and baking, and that’s what lead me to culinary school. However, I missed the academic challenges of science and math. While I was in culinary school I had to take a nutrition course that was taught by a registered dietitian. While taking that course I realized that I wanted to pursue becoming a dietitian to combine my passions for food, cooking, science, and math.
Q: What is the most rewarding part of your job?
Amber: I love working with students! You all are so dynamic and fun to talk with.
Leah: I enjoy using food, cooking and nutrition knowledge to help and teach others.
Q: If someone wanted a consultation with you, what would they expect?
Amber: A student will fill out a brief questionnaire before their appointment. Once they arrive, we go over the questionnaire to get an idea of what barriers they face and goals they have. We do a snapshot of how a day looks in terms of eating and physical activity. From there, we discuss meal patterns, food choices, ideas for physical activity—whatever the student needs to help with their relationship with food. I try to keep it student-driven and very nonjudgmental.
Leah: They could expect to have nutrition questions and concerns addressed in a one on one appointment, where I would assess current eating habits and nutrition concerns. Together, we would create an action plan to set and address nutrition goals.
Q: Many students find it difficult to fit exercise and wholesome meals into their busy schedule. Do you have any advice on how to find balance?
Amber: I think for most students it boils down to time management. As much as possible (and I know it’s easier said than done!), try to make academics an 8am-6pm(ish) job. Focus on classes, labs, homework, etc during your workday. Once your workday is done, you’re able to focus on yourself—being active, talking with friends, reading a fun book—anything that helps you feel like “you”. Take time on the weekends to meal plan, grocery shop, and do some meal prep, so you have less to think about during the week.
Leah: For fitting in exercise I recommend finding a type of movement that you enjoy. Then, look at your schedule week to week to find the times that would work best for you to fit in that enjoyable movement. Also, wholesome meals do not have to be complicated or a huge investment of time. Minimal meal prep on the weekend or a day when you have more time can help make putting together meals during the busier school week easier and less time-consuming. For wholesome meals think about creative minimalism. You can get started with 2 types of protein, 1-2 grains such as rice or pasta, canned tomatoes, dried spices and two long-lasting vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots or any variety of frozen veggies. Vary the proteins, herbs, veggies, and grains to keep it simple and interesting. There are also options for finding wholesome meals on campus. Students can also check out recipe ideas for meals and snacks on our social media pages an on our website: http://healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/well-being/nutrition/tuesday-tastes
Q: Let's talk "DIETS"! Give me some feedback on some of the trendy diets of the day: KETO, Whole 30, Paleo, Carb Cycling, Intermittent fasting, Cleanses, etc. and how is intuitive eating more successful against these trends?
Amber: Honestly, I can’t stand diets. They are designed to restrict food, usually your favorites, for a temporary drop in weight. 95% of people who go on a diet end up regaining even more than they lost. Diets teach you to ignore your body’s internal cues of what, when, and how to eat, and, rather, to adhere to many external rules that don’t make much sense when it comes to nutrition, health, or just being a human. Intuitive eating is based on choosing foods that satisfy you physically and mentally. Nothing is off limits- you eat what, how much, and when your body signals you to. Once you take foods like chips or sweets off a pedestal, they become much less enticing, which allows you to eat in a balanced manner that serves your health best.
Leah: The trendy diets of the day typically focus on using external cues or measurements to help us decide what should be eaten on a particular day and several of them recommend avoiding entire food groups. Taking an intuitive eating approach shifts the focus from external to internal and encourages that all foods fit making it an approach that is more specific to individual needs and sustainable long term. Research continues to show us that dieting with a weight loss focus does not yield long term successful results and in many cases has the opposite effect.
Q: Now, we know that dietetics is a science. But behind that science, there are multiple philosophies. What would you say is yours?
Amber: I’d say my philosophy is that food is an integral part of our diverse cultures, how we socialize, celebrate, and love. Food isn’t an enemy, it’s there to nourish us physically, mentally, and socially. Food is to be enjoyed and shared!
Leah: I would say to stress less about every eating and food choice made throughout the day. Learning to trust your body, your individual hunger and fullness cues and feeling satisfied with food choices will guide you to eating to meet your specific needs.
Q: What would your “last meal” be?
Amber: Easy. My mom makes the best lasagna ever. I would eat it every meal if I could!
Leah: Pasta and sauce preferably made by my grandmother and with my family.
You can learn even more about intuitive eating, fad diets or how to prepare your favorite satisfying snacks to get you through a long day at the National Nutrition Month events. All events are free of charge for both students and employees. Learn how to set aside the shoulds and the should nots and consider taste, texture, aroma, temperature, appearance, volume and choose what will be most satisfying to you. Go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/nutrition for a full schedule of events.
]]>Marketing Intern
]]>This March Stamps Health Services is spending Endometriosis Awareness Month breaking down the stigma behind this condition and helping you better understand the symptoms and signs! Stamps Health Services gynecologist, Dr. Moore answered some of the most asked questions he sees regarding this condition.
What is endometriosis? Endometriosis occurs endometrial tissue grows in other parts of the body, typically the abdominal cavity causing adhesions, lesions, and cysts. This can cause extreme, and even debilitating, pain in the people who have it.
What are the symptoms? Endometriosis affects 1 in 10 females of reproductive age and can strike at any point during this time, so being able to notice and recognize its indicators is imperative. Some prominent symptoms to be mindful of are fatigue, nausea, constipation, or bloating. The most common manifestations of this pain, however, are unusually heavy or painful menstruation, pain during bowel movements, during or after sex, and pelvic, lower back and abdominal pain. If left untreated, some people may also experience a or infertility.
What treatments are available? The treatments for endometriosis can vary in levels of intensity. Some are more aimed at treating its painful symptoms, while others address the actual tissue. One common treatment is the prescription of birth control pills, which decrease the stimulation of the endometrial tissue just as they can decrease the length and flow of menstruation. Another prescription might assign drugs that put the body into temporary menopause. In other cases, pain medication or hormone therapy can be used. In extreme cases, the patient may need to have a laparoscopy in which the endometrial implants are surgically removed.
What resources are available for students at Georgia Tech? The Women’s Health Clinic at Stamps Health Services is available for anyone to schedule an appointment. If you or someone you know are experiencing any of the above symptoms, please come in and discuss them. According to Dr. Moore, it is encouraged that anyone who is experiencing pain to the point of distress is seen, whether or not this pain is ultimately related to endometriosis. Many people are used to being told that their period pain is “normal,” but in truth, if it is causing you significant distress, then it should be discussed with a medical professional. For more information about scheduling an appointment at Stamps Health Services go to health.gatech.edu.
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]]>Dining Services, Housing, and the Student Center began enhanced cleaning procedures in late February when norovirus was suspected to help prevent additional spread on campus. Stamps Health Services has already seen a decline in patients presenting with symptoms. However, norovirus can continue to circulate on college campuses for weeks to months if proper steps are not taken to prevent spread.
Preventing the spread of norovirus at Georgia Tech is everyone’s responsibility. Proper hand hygiene, in addition to maintaining good personal hygiene, is essential for preventing the spread of norovirus. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water especially after using the toilet and always before eating, preparing or handling food.
We ask all Georgia Tech community members to follow these simple steps to help prevent spread of this illness and other easily-spread infections:
If you are currently experiencing symptoms and dehydration is a concern, contact Stamps Health Services for an appointment (404-894-1420).
Follow Stamps Health Services on Facebook future information related to this, if neccessary, and other contagious illnesses spreading on campus.
]]>National Nutrition Month is here! This month is dedicated to helping you shift your thinking from diet culture to finding foods that satisfy you and your senses. Learn how to choose foods that are satisfying to you and each of your senses. Disregard the shoulds and the should nots and consider taste, texture, aroma, temperature, appearance, volume and choose what will be most satisfying to you. You can check out all the events our dietitians have been cooking up for the month at healthinaitiaves.gatech.edu/nutrition.
Did you know that every Monday at 4:00 p.m., Health Initiatives hosts mindful Mondays in the Student Center, Juniper Room? All students are welcome to drop in during the one-hour-long event to color or participate in guided mindfulness exercises. “Mindfulness is being awake in your current experience rather than dwelling on the past or anticipating the future,” said health educator Sarah Morales. “It helps alleviate the stress and anxiety you may be feeling as a college student.” No appointments or registration is needed for this event. For more information about the different resources we provide related to mindfulness, check out http://healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/well-being/mental/mindfulness
Everyone is invited to the next pet therapy date on March 5th from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. during the Campus Services CARNIVALE event in the Student Center. Pet therapy is a guided interaction for all members of the Georgia Tech community with trained (and really cute) dogs. “Interacting with therapy dogs has been proven to lower blood pressure, lower cortisol levels, and improve [your] sense of belonging,” said health educator Jocelyn Resnick. Find out more about pet therapy at http://healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/pet-therapy.
Learn how get the best sleep of your life during the SleepWell@Tech week. This program runs from March 4th-8th and brings awareness to the importance of sleep for your overall health and well-being. HI health educator and event co-creator JaPeera Edmond’s said, “Lack of sleep or poor sleep habits can lead to a host of negative health outcomes. ... It is important that students know what these outcomes are and how they improve their sleep, which in turn can improve their quality of life.” To learn more about this week of events go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/sleep.
Get a jump start on your spring break during Safe Spring Break Week. This week is focused on teaching you how to stay healthy and safe during your upcoming spring break week. You can also pick up some free swag to get you ready for the week ahead. The kick off takes place Monday March 11 and runs through Friday, March 15th. For a full list of events check out healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/springbreak.
Learn how to "adult" during the adulting series. This series explores finances, healthy eating, purpose, professionalism, and other life skills providing you with the essential skills and knowledge to be a successful adult. The first session is March 14th and discusses interviewing, resumes and finances in partnership with C2D2. The second session is March 28th and teaches techniques to incorporate physical activity into your busy schedules. Both sessions take place from 4 p.m. – 5 p.m. in the Student Center Piedmont room. Learn more about this program at healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/adulting.
The next Foundations of Finance session starts March 25th. This five-week course empowers both undergraduate and graduate students to save, budget, avoid debt, invest and spend wisely. Registration is required and slots fill quickly. You can register and learn more about this series at healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/finance.
Don’t forget to join Health Initiatives for a Ted Talk discussion on topics pertinent to societal influence on health and well-being - BYOL (bring your own lunch). This month you will be discussing the popular talk, Me Too is a Movement, Not a Moment by Tarana Burke on March 12th from 1 p.m. – 2 p.m. in the Student Center room 343.
We understand that Georgia Tech can be extremely busy and stressful, but taking time for yourself to relax and improve your mental health and well-being is more important than any assignment (yes, we said it). Take a small chunk out of your day and stop by one (or all) of these amazing programs—you won’t regret it! For a full list of programs and events go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu.
]]>Communications Officer II
Health & Well-Being
]]>“Disordered eating began in my adolescence. It felt as if everybody in my immediate surroundings was watching their weight or on a diet. What started as an attempt at becoming healthier turned into a toxic mindset” said Resnick. Jocelyn developed a highly dysfunctional, guilt-ridden relationship with food.
There are many factors that determine your weight. It is important to keep in mind that dieting is never a healthy way to approach nutrition. The statistics show that 95% of diets fail, and 1 in 4 dieters will develop an eating disorder.
“I learned there is no such thing as “clean,” “good,” or “bad” foods. Food has no moral value. When we ingest it, it does not make us a good or bad person. Our bodies and brains need all sorts of nutrients to function, including fats and carbs. In addition, different bodies have different nutritional needs. There is no one-size-fits-all method of healthy eating. The best way to encourage good eating habits is to focus on making small, sustainable lifestyle choices that do not involve restriction” said Resnick.
Jocelyn’s road to recovery began when she started taking nutrition and fitness classes during her undergraduate studies at Binghamton University. She re-learned how to treat food as fuel and physical activity as a strength. One resource that was particularly helpful was Health at Every Size. Health at Every Size is an inclusivity-focused movement that seeks to support people of all shapes and sizes in improving their lives by adopting healthy behaviors, rather than focusing on body weight. Jocelyn developed the mindset that All Foods Fit and began eating more intuitively.
As she continued on the road to recovery, she discovered that disordered eating is a cycle. When we foster a mindset of restriction, we do more damage than good to our bodies. Restrictive eating puts our brain in fight-or-flight mode and increases cravings, which can often result in binge-eating, followed by guilt and shame. When you break this cycle and allow yourself to eat what you want in amounts that feel good for your body, you also cut down cravings, making it easier to continue a consistently healthy lifestyle. As a whole, it is best to search for a balance of nutritious but non-restrictive eating, which will nourish a healthy relationship with food and your body. Learning these principles helped Jocelyn get back in control of her habits, and led to a healthier relationship with food. Here are some final tips from Jocelyn on how to care for your personal health in a stable, sustainable way:
Jocelyn’s recovery journey ultimately led her to be an all-around healthier and happier person. Now, she works as a Health Educator, helping students through their own journey. There are numerous resources available to you on campus including the Health Initiatives dietitians who are available for one-on-one counseling sessions to help you with your journey.
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Screens restrict melatonin production.
Your phone, laptop, and tv all emit a blue light that can affect your brain’s production of melatonin- the hormone that controls your sleeping and waking cycles. If you’re using these devices too close to going to bed, you may find it difficult to fall asleep. A good way to avoid this is to stop use of your technology at least 30 minutes before bed, or you can always make your room a screen-free zone.
Technology tricks your brain into thinking you should be awake.
Cranking out a few tasks on your computer or phone before bed might seem like a productive choice, but in actuality, it may be doing more harm for you than good. When you’re using technology, your brain is active and engaged; far away from the state of mind you want to be in right before bed. A better way to get your mind and body ready to sleep and practice healthy sleep habits is to focus on a task that doesn’t require a lot of brainpower, like reading, meditating, or taking a hot bath.
Technology can stress you out and get your mind racing.
Our phones, computers, and tv’s are windows to the world. They keep us updated on people around us, in our inner circle and far beyond. As you are getting ready to sleep, the last thing you need is to be hit with a flood of information that is going to keep you up. Right before bed, it’s best to give your brain a break and have a restful sleep and start the next day with a clear mind.
Technology can be a time vortex.
We’ve all been down the internet rabbit hole before- you start out planning to watch one video or read one article. Then a related piece of content pops up, then another, and another, and the next thing you know you’re up for hours, unsure how you possibly ended up where you are. The best way to avoid these distractions is to cut off your technology usage before going to bed. We promise, it really can wait for tomorrow.
It can be highly tempting to use your technology at night to unwind and relax, but ultimately it can be detrimental to the kind of healthy sleep patterns you want to cultivate. Instead of reaching for your phone at night, try to let your brain unwind without the presence of screens to fall asleep faster and get better sleep. Your body will thank you in the morning.
Health Initiatives is hosting a week of events dedicated to helping you improve your quality and quantity of sleep every night! The program SleepWell@Tech kicks off March 4th and runs through March 8th. Every day features a new event dedicated to helping you catch more Z's. For more information about this event go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/sleep.
]]>Marketing Intern
]]>Across the nation February 25th through March 3rd is National Eating Disorders Awareness Week. This week is focused on garnering awareness around risk factors, health consequences, and available resources. Eating disorders are often misunderstood and can be swept under the rug. We are debunking some of the myths associated with these mental health disorders to help you make better informed decisions should you or someone you know struggle with an eating disorder.
Myth 1: Eating disorders are a choice.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, eating disorders are biologically influenced medical illnesses and not lifestyle choices. The exact cause of eating disorders is not fully understood, but research suggests these disorders are a combination of genetic, biological, behavioral, psychological, and social factors. However, remember biology is not destiny! Treatment plans for eating disorders include psychotherapy, medical care, and monitoring, nutrition counseling, medications, or a combination of all of these approaches.
Myth 2: Eating disorders are not that serious.
Eating disorders have the second highest mortality rate of any mental health illness. They can also lead to severe medical complications from binge eating, purging, starvation, and over-exercise. Eating disorders can harm the heart, digestive system, bones, and lead to other diseases. People who struggle with eating disorders are enduring intense emotional distress which can severely impact their quality of life.
Myth 3: Only overtly skinny people can have eating disorders.
Eating disorders manifest in many different ways. It does not discriminate against shape or size and there is no one size fits all. You cannot determine if someone has healthy eating habits based on their body type. An individual can experience a severe eating disorder at any weight.
If you or someone you know is suffering from an eating disorder you do not need to go through it alone. Georgia Tech has a multidisciplinary Eating Disorder Treatment Team made up of representatives from Primary Care, Psychiatry, Women’s Health, Nutrition, and the Counseling Center. This team creates individualized recovery plans for students with symptoms of an eating disorder, including anorexia nervosa, bulimia, binge eating, and other disordered eating behaviors. To address any of these concerns call Health Initiatives at 404-894-9980 to make an appointment to speak with a dietitian.
]]>Communications Officer II
Health & Well-Being
]]>Q: Why did you want to become a well-being activator?
A: In my sophomore year, I took on a directorship in my organization that required communication with the different members, specifically emotionally intelligent conversations. Through reaching out to different people, I found that a lot of members suffered from depression, anxiety, and general isolation. They felt that there was no one they could rely on, even if they were surrounded by an organization with 80+ people. Even though I started focusing a lot more on mental health and destigmatizing it, I knew I couldn’t do it by myself, especially since I wasn’t an expert on it. So I became a Well-Being Activator to educate myself on mental health and how to have these conversations, as well as to slowly create a culture of openness and positive headspace.
Q: What does being a Well-Being Activator entail?
A: As of right now, we take a lot of the resources that we receive from Jocelyn and the Well-Being Activator team and spread it into our organization channels. We also try to continue building self-awareness about mental health and being able to have these honest conversations with the people around me.
Q: Who would you recommend this opportunity to?
A: I would recommend this opportunity to anyone who is interested about improving mental health among their peers. Having the role of a Well-Being Activator entails spreading awareness about mental health and creating a supportive environment for the Georgia Tech community. Therefore, becoming a Well-Being Activator allows you to have an important role on campus where you can teach others about the importance of maintaining a healthy life. Also, becoming a Well-Being Activator is a great opportunity to join a community filled with people who strive to maintain not only their mental health but also the mental health of others.
Q: How has being a Well-Being Activator impacted your college experience?
A: It’s given me a sense of hope about helping others. Prior to this experience, I always knew that I liked listening to people and impacting their lives for the better, but I never really knew how to do it on a broader scale. Being a Well-Being Activator has really aided in my growth and has further developed my people-helping skills, as well as opened the door for other possibilities on campus to improve lives and continue the conversation of mental health.
Q: What is your favorite part of being a Well-Being Activator?
A: I like how passionate the other activators are about mental health. Every time I go to a meeting, I can see that they really do care about the health and wellness of their peers. At our age, it’s really easy to not get excited for group meetings and/or skill-building activities because it can feel cheesy and not worth it, but each and every member actively participates in these activities and conversations at every meeting. They genuinely want to make a difference.
Well-being Activators take-on an important role throughout the Georgia Tech community, and Health Initiatives is always looking for more Georgia Tech employees and students who want to improve the well-being of others. If you are interested in learning more about this program go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/well-being-activators to learn more and start making a difference on campus!
]]>Marketing Intern
]]>Fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables: Fruits and vegetables are high in vitamins, minerals, and fiber that can help lower your risk of heart disease. Enjoy them on their own, or mixed into salads, stir-frys, or smoothies. Some specific highly nutritious foods to add to your routine are berries and spinach, which have heart-healthy phytonutrients (beneficial natural chemicals), and can be added to all kinds of dishes; asparagus, which is high in antioxidants and can help in lowering blood pressure; and vitamin c-filled tomatoes- even of the sun-dried variety. Be mindful of fried and breaded vegetables, as well as fruits canned in heavy syrup or with added sugar.
Whole grains: Whole grains are also great sources of nutrients and fiber, which can improve your blood cholesterol levels and help you feel fuller, longer. You can find whole grains in brown rice, barley, popcorn, and oatmeal, as well as whole-grain bread, cereal, and pasta. Cooking with whole-wheat flour instead of refined flour can also improve the heart-healthiness of your meals.
Lean proteins: Proteins are a vital part of your diet that help build bones and muscle, in addition to giving you the strength and energy you need for the day. These include fish, eggs, lean poultry, and meats, but it is also easily accessible if you eat a plant-based diet. Protein is found in soy products, such as tofu, soy milk, and miso. Nut butters, like peanut and almond butter, are healthy and convenient and can be eaten on sandwiches or with fruit. Legumes, such as kidney, pinto, and black beans, can be great substitutes for meat in meals. Lima beans, chickpeas, split peas, and lentils are also great in soups and sauces.
Healthful fats: Unsaturated fats are a beneficial alternative to the saturated and trans fat you’ll find in some processed foods. To better care for your heart, try to be mindful of your consumption of fats found in sources like butter, higher fat meats, and creamy sauces. Instead, focus on using olive and vegetable oils, or other plant-based sources of healthful fats. Nuts and seeds are rich in protein and antioxidants and can be eaten on their own, mixed into other dishes, or ground up to add a healthful source of fats. Another delicious and healthful source is avocados, which are high in fiber, potassium, and vitamins, and linked to the prevention of multiple conditions. When discussing heart health it is also important to mention Omega-3 fatty acids, which have shown to be beneficial to the heart, brain, and eye health. Good food sources of Omega 3s include fatty fish, such as salmon and tuna, vegetable oils, nuts, flaxseeds and flaxseed oil, and leafy vegetables.
Eating heart-healthy foods is easier than you think! If you still think changing your habits might be difficult, check out these tips on eating healthily on a budget, or sign up for nutrition counseling with Georgia Tech Health Initiatives. If you’re just looking for more inspiration, check out this fun list of healthy recipes. For more information, visit healthinitiatives.gatech.edu /nutrition.
]]>Marketing Intern
]]>It is important to be educated on the aspects of sexual health, but also recognize that not everyone is having sex. It’s a personal choice and preference and if you choose to engage in this type of activity it’s imperative that you are well informed.
Be aware of the basics
Understanding the basics of human desire and pleasure will jump start your sexual health, therefore it’s important to speak with your doctor related to any basic sexual health information you might be unaware of.
In addition, it is important to understand that physical impairments and other health issues can cause complications during sexual intercourse. Regular visits to your primary care physician or women’s center will help ensure that you are both physically and sexually healthy.
Protect yourself from infections
The only way to completely prevent yourself from sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is to not have sex. If you choose to have sex, it is important to protect yourself. STIs can be severe and sometimes cause lifelong damages. Knowing about sexual health means knowing about potential signs, symptoms, and causes of infections. Talk to your doctor about signs and symptoms and ways to protect yourself from STIs.
If you think you might be experiencing symptoms, get tested immediately. It is important to know how to properly treat your infection and protect your partner(s). Stamps Health Services provides low-cost testing to students and spouses.
Ask Questions and seek help
If there is something that is concerning you related to sexual health, do not be afraid to speak to a healthcare provider immediately. There are many different aspects and factors that play into your sexual health. Speaking to one health care provider might not be enough. Therefore it might be best to reach out to your primary care doctor, obstetrician-gynecologist, physical therapist, and or mental health professional if you are experiencing a sexual health issue that needs to be addressed.
For additional resources go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/sexual-health or to speak to a doctor go to health.gatech.edu/women.
]]>Marketing Intern
]]>Healthy eating plays an important part in keeping your heart healthy. It is important to have a wide variety in your diet, including fruits, veggies, protein and healthy fats. Cooking from home gives you the opportunity to create a balanced plate of foods that you enjoy. Look for menu options at restaurants that have lower fat and less salt. Foods that are high in salt and saturated fat can raise cholesterol levels. Avoiding foods with these fats, will help lower the cholesterol level and keep your heart healthy.
Being active will help your heart stay in tip-top shape. Exercising for just 30 minutes a day helps to lower your risk of heart disease. Working out can help you lose weight, improve your cholesterol, and lower your blood pressure. Exercise can be something as simple as a quick run, jumping jacks at home, or even a bike across campus. All that matters is that there is an increase in your heart rate. Just like you work out your arms or legs, your heart needs a work out as well. The Campus Recreation Complex (CRC) is a great place to strengthen your heart right on campus.
It is important to know your family heart history, as there are many heart issues that are genetic. Knowing some simple facts about your siblings, parents and grandparents could help prevent heart disease and stroke. Knowing you have a strong family history of heart disease or stroke can be motivation to take preventative measures such as setting up an appointment with a cardiologist, adopting healthy eating, and being more aware of the signs of heart problems.
Find activities that help you de-stress
High stress levels can have a negative impact on heart health. Stress can lead to high blood pressure and sleeping issues. Stress also causes people to turn to unhealthy coping methods such as smoking, drinking, and overeating. All of these unhealthy coping methods increase the risk of heart disease. Finding hobbies, getting a job you enjoy and surrounding yourself with positive people can help your attitude and your heart.
For more information on how to stay healthy, visit Campus Recreation, Health Initiatives or Stamps Health Services.
]]>Marketing Intern
]]>This Adulting series was designed to provide students’ knowledge of important life skills as well as identify campus resources that will aid in your personal growth. This series explores topics like finances, healthy eating, purpose & vision, professional relationships, and other important life skills to help you successfully transition into adulthood.
The course takes place every other Thursday, from 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm in the Student Center Piedmont Room, and will run from February 14th – March 29th. It is open to all students!
Check out the series below. You can attend any or all classes:
Communication 101
Learn about communicating online and in person for both your personal and professional life.
Date: February 14
Time: 4:00pm-5:00pm
Location: Piedmont Room - Student Center
Stress Less
Learn techniques to help manage and mitigate your stress and practice self-care.
Date: February 28
Time: 4:00pm-5:00pm
Location: Piedmont Room - Student Center
Life After Tech
Learn about interviewing, resumes, finances and more as we partner with C2D2.
Date: March 14
Time: 4:00pm-5:00pm
Location: Piedmont Room - Student Center
Fitting in Fitness
Learn how to add physical activity into your busy schedule as we partner with CRC.
Date: March 28
Time: 4:00pm-5:00pm
Location: Piedmont Room - Student Center
Eating on a Budget
Learn how to eat healthy on a budget with a guided tour of a local grocery store.
Date: March 29
Time: 10am-11:30am
Location: Publix in Midtown
Registration is not required for all sessions, but strongly encouraged. For more information, go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/adulting.
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Marketing Intern
]]>CONDOM DOs:
CONDOM DON’Ts:
Did you know Health Initiatives has a FREE condom availability program on campus? The Condom Availability Program at Georgia Tech provides the campus community with availability and access to a variety of condoms, lubricants, and contraceptives to help improve your sexual health. To find the most convenient location or additional information on sexual health go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/condoms.
]]>Communications Officer II
Health & Well-Being
]]>Your heart affects every part of your body, which is why taking care of it is so important. Maintaining a healthy diet, lifestyle, and emotional well-being can affect your heart health. By living a healthy lifestyle, you can help keep your blood pressure, cholesterol, and sugar normal which lowers your risk for heart disease and heart attacks. You are never too young or old to start making changes. According to the CDC, a healthy lifestyle includes: eating a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, getting enough physical activity, not smoking or using other forms of tobacco, and limiting alcohol use. Most importantly talk with your healthcare provider about your personal risks, and what you can do to reduce them. Health Initiatives, Stamps Health Services, and the Campus Recreation Complex are all here to help you reach your goals and maintain a healthy heart all year long!
]]>Communications Officer II
Health & Well-Being
]]>HI Health Educator, Elaine Miller recommends…
“Try doing something consistently every morning, whether it's listening to a specific song, making fresh coffee, eating a healthy breakfast, taking a minute of mindful reflection, or doing a set of stretching. Doing it daily will cue your body that it's time to be awake and energized.”
HI Health Educator, JaPeera Edmonds recommends…
“Wake up with enough time in the morning to get into a good routine. Feeling rushed and stressed in the morning is not a great start to the day. Make sure that you have enough time to accomplish all your morning tasks and start the day off on a positive note. “
Hi Health Educator, Deontez Wimbley recommends…
“How you end your day actually helps how you start. I highly suggest students do as much as possible the night before to ensure when they wake up stress and anxiety is significantly reduced. Students can prepare for a great morning by deciding what to wear the night before, preparing breakfast and lunch, and setting phones to do not disturb. A good night’s sleep is critical to a having a great start to the morning. I recommend students download an app that aids with getting a night of restful sleep.
HI Health Educator, Jocelyn Resnick recommends…
“I recommend three simple steps. Make time to eat breakfast, stretch, and practice gratitude by journaling.”
HI Health Educator, Sarah Morales recommends…
“My tip would be to have a consistent bedtime and a consistent wake-up time. Going to sleep and waking up around the same time each day helps your body get on a schedule and will eventually make waking up a breeze (because our body follows a circadian rhythm that relies on consistency). I also recommend getting your work/school bag and lunch/snacks packed the night before so you can grab them and go in the morning. This saves time and energy in the mornings that you can use for a little extra sleep or more time for getting ready.”
These morning routines are easy to incorporate to help you maximize the amount of sleep you get each day. Sleep plays a key role in helping fix and consolidate memories, as well as prevent the decay of memories. Without sleep, people work harder but don’t always perform as well. The amount of sleep that a college student gets is one of the strongest predictors of academic success. “When a student is rested, memory recall, decision making, critical thinking, and the ability to maintain concentration are much improved,” said Edmonds. Researchers state sleep deprivation is one of the main reasons college students receive low academic scores. For more information on how to get the most out of your sleep go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/sleep.
]]>Communications Officer II
Health & Well-Being
]]>Did you know that every Monday at 4:00 p.m., Health Initiatives hosts mindful Mondays in the Student Center, Juniper Room? All students are welcome to drop in during the one-hour-long event to color or participate in guided mindfulness exercises. “Mindfulness is being awake in your current experience rather than dwelling on the past or anticipating the future,” said health educator Sarah Morales. “It helps alleviate the stress and anxiety you may be feeling as a college student.” No appointments or registration is needed for this event. For more information about the different resources we provide related to mindfulness, check out http://healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/well-being/mental/mindfulness
All are invited to the next Pet Therapy date on Feb. 5th from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the GT Connector. Pet therapy is a guided interaction for all members of the Georgia Tech community with trained (and really cute) dogs. “Interacting with therapy dogs has been proven to lower blood pressure, lower cortisol levels, and improve [your] sense of belonging,” said health educator Jocelyn Resnick. The next event is scheduled for Feb. 5th from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the GT Connector. Find out more about pet therapy at http://healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/pet-therapy.
Celebrate your relationships during Healthy Relationships Week from Feb. 11th – 14th. Healthy Relationships Week offers everyone an opportunity to dive into subjects about sex, "situationships", consent, getting over heartbreak, and so much more. Learn more about these week-long events at healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/relationships.
Register today for the Fit to Thrive, 5-week series designed to teach participants about personal fitness, nutrition, stress management, and healthy lifestyle change. This series begins Feb. 13th and runs every Wednesday through March 13th. Registration is required at healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/thrive.
Learn how to "adult" during the Adulting series. This series explores finances, healthy eating, purpose, professionalism, and other life skills providing you with the essential skills and knowledge to be a successful adult. The first session is February 14th and discusses communicating online and in person for both your personal and professional life. The second session is Feb. 28th and teaches techniques to help manage and mitigate your stress and practice self-care. Both sessions take place from 4 p.m. – 5 p.m. in the Student Center Piedmont room. Learn more about this program at healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/adulting.
Once a month, the Health Initiatives' dietitians will be in the Student Center healthy space to showcase new recipes, free samples, and offer healthy tips with Flavorful Fridays. The next event is Feb 15th and will follow the theme, Winter Warm-Ups. Warm up with hearty soups featuring winter veggies. Learn more about flavorful Fridays at http://healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/well-being/nutrition
Don’t forget to join Health Initiatives for a viewing and discussion on topics pertinent to societal influence on health and well-being - BYOL (bring your own lunch). This month they will be discussing the popular talk, Stop Hating Your Body, Start Living Your Life by Taryn Brumfitt on Feb. 26th from 11am-12pm in the Student Center room 343.
We understand that Georgia Tech can be busy and stressful, but taking time for yourself to relax and improve your mental health and well-being is more important than any assignment (yes, we said it). Take a small chunk out of your day and stop by one (or all) of these amazing programs—you won’t regret it! For a full list of programs and events go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu.
]]>Communications Officer II
Health & Well-Being
]]>Healthy Relationships week is designed with the “hope that students will have greater confidence in practicing healthy relationships” said HI Health Educator, Deontez Wimbley. “Relationships are a part of life. Most people throughout their lifetime engage in some form of intimate partner relationship. Students need to know resources are available to help them thrive in life now and beyond their years at Tech,” said Wimbley. Join in on any or all of the events happening all week long:
Poly, Mono, Open, Solo: Healthy Relationships for everyone
Monday, February 11th Piedmont Room 6:00 pm-7: 00 pm
Healthy relationships are developed and maintained by characteristics and tools ranging from open communication to trust and equity. This program dives into healthy relationship themes that are necessary no matter one’s relationship dynamic.
Sexual Health 101
Tuesday, February 12th Unplugged Reading Room WVDC 5:00 pm-6:00 pm
Come learn about a wide range of topics surrounding sexual health. There will be discussions about contraception methods, STI transmission, boundaries, condoms, and consent. Come learn about these topics and so many more.
Coffee Talk
Wednesday, February 13th Student Center Under the Couch 11am-1: 00 pm
This is a round table discussion where VOICE peer educators will lead guided conversations about sexual violence, healthy relationships, and consent.
Healthy Relationships Week Tabling
Thursday, February 14th 11 am - 1pm
Stop by our table in the Student Center Healthy Space. There will be games about various healthy relationship characteristics and styles. There will also be information about ways to support friends or loved ones who might be in unhealthy relationships. We will also have some Valentine’s giveaways!
Adulting and Relationships:
Thursday, February 14th Piedmont Room: 4:00 pm-5:00 pm
As we navigate adult life and establish intimate partner relationships with new people, we are often confronted with rejection, heartbreak, new emotions, confusing “situationships”, and a host of other adulting relationship dilemmas. This workshop provides students with information on dating safely, dealing with rejection, setting boundaries and effectively communicating.
Please contact Deontez Wimbley from Health Initiatives if you have any further questions about Healthy Relationships Week. To learn more about relationships visit healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/relationships.
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Georgia Tech is tough and sometimes it can be challenging to escape the constant pressures caused by the social and academic demands. Join fellow students in reading and discussing the book The Mindful Twenty-Something: Life Skills to Handle Stress…and Everything Else, while also learning simple mindfulness exercises that you can easily incorporate into your daily routine.
The Health Initiatives (HI) student mindfulness book club will teach you techniques to cope with or eliminate stress The purpose of the book club is to inspire students to learn about the factors that cause stress and to practice evidence-based techniques to help one manage stress in a healthy manner. Due to popular demand, this club features two sessions.
Session 1:
Tuesdays from 10 am – 11 am
Runs February 5 – 26
Student Center Crescent Room
Session 2:
Tuesdays from 10 am – 11 am
Runs March 12 – April 9 (excluding Spring Break)
Student Center Crescent Room
Registration is required. Those registered will receive a copy of the book and light breakfast at each meeting. So why is practicing meditation important in one’s daily life? Club moderator and Health Initiatives Health Educator, Jocelyn Resnick said, “Through mindfulness, an individual is able to focus on their present state and inner self. By thinking about the now they can slow down for a moment and let go of negative feelings and emotions.” Grab your friends and join Health Initiatives for the Student Mindfulness Book Club. The book will be provided at the first event. Go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/mindfulness to register.
]]>Communications Officer II
Health & Well-Being
]]>Find harmony within the five dimensions of well-being.
During Fit to Thrive, students will learn about the five dimensions of well-being; professional, social, emotional, spiritual and physical in order to be the best version of yourself. “Everyone inherently has all of the dimensions, but you can focus your energy into improving aspects within each dimension”, said Miller. “Participants should be able to make valuable improvements to their personal health and well-being in all five dimensions.” Improving on these dimensions will help create harmony in your life.
Make positive changes to your personal health.
Through this program, participants “gain better understanding of themselves through learning about intuitive eating, fitness for life, mindfulness techniques, and more,” remarked Miller. During the Fit to Thrive program, students “will learn about their own strengths and abilities to make a positive personal change.” Health is more than just being fit, Fit to Thrive will teach students how to improve all aspects of personal health.
Practice goal setting to help fuel your ambitions.
During Fit to Thrive, participants set personal goals to point them in the direction of a healthy lifestyle. Set goals using a multi-prong approach in order to define your personal health and well-being aspirations. “Fit to Thrive is a great opportunity for anyone on Tech’s campus including students, staff, and faculty, to learn about the 5 dimensions of well-being and make positive changes to their personal health.”
Join Health Initiatives for the first Fit to Thrive session beginning February 13th and running every Wednesday through March 13th. If you cannot make it to the first session, Health Initiatives is offering a second time slot beginning March 27th and running every Wednesday from 5:30- 6:30 until April 24th. The group will meet in the Campus Recreation Complex Room 240 from 5:30 – 6:30. For more information visit http://healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/thrive.
]]>Marketing Intern
]]>Get enough sleep.
During the winter months, your body is using much more energy than normal just to stay warm. On top of that, the changes in daylight can disrupt your circadian rhythms and make you feel more sluggish in general. It is more important than ever to maintain a consistent sleep schedule during the winter. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time over the weekend to keep your internal clock ticking and stave off that winter lethargy.
Continue to eat a balanced variety of food.
Choose a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables to enjoy. They are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals to keep you energized and feeling well. Fuel your day with fiber-rich carbohydrates. Eating adequate fiber, particularly whole grains, fruits and vegetables, stabilizes your blood glucose levels and helps you feel full. Be sure to include calcium-rich foods to support bone health. Stay hydrated, primarily with water. Particularly during the winter months, forgetting to drink adequately is common. Try drinking herbal teas to both hydrate and stay warm. Maintain your energy and focus by eating every few hours throughout the day. Enjoy snacks in between meals. By being mindful of your hunger and fullness cues, you can be more attuned to physical vs emotional hunger.
Exercise.
The freezing days and long nights can make it tempting to just curl up in bed and not leave your dorm until spring. To continue exercising regularly, plan workouts ahead of time so they’re harder to skip out on. If you’d rather not go out in the cold, the Campus Recreation Complex (CRC) is a great resource available for students and staff.
Take care of your mental health.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), more commonly known as seasonal depression, is a real issue for about 1 in 15 people, but it is treatable. Keeping up a healthy eating and exercising pattern can do a lot to offset the symptoms of SAD, but there is more you can do to combat your fluctuating mood. Bright light, either by getting outside in the natural light during the day, or using bright indoor lighting, improves SAD. Make sure to stay social. Visit your friends or family, or take yourself on an indoor-outing; you don’t have to give up the things you do for fun just because it’s cold out. Meditation or a visit to the CRC sauna can also be a mood booster. Remember, your mental well-being is just as important as your physical health.
Protect yourself from sickness.
Don’t make the winter blues worse by adding flu to the mix! Stay vigilant in the winter months. Remember to wash your hands frequently, and keep them away from your face. Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze. Don’t share water bottles, drinking straws or cups, or eating utensils. Get your immunizations, especially the yearly flu shot, which you can get at Stamps Health Services. If you do get sick, prevent spreading the flu by staying home!
Sunny days and warm weather will be back before you know it. Until then, stay safe and healthy out there!
]]>Marketing Intern
]]>Foundations of Finance is a five-week course that empowers both undergraduate and graduate students to save, budget, avoid debt, invest, and spend wisely. Students will learn the skills to start practicing sound financial habits now that will set them up for success in the future. The course will integrate both classroom learning and the online transit-financial wellness course.
The transit-financial wellness course is a free, online course designed to provide college students with the skills to understand their finances and successfully transition in and out of the college experience. With a highly personalized, self-paced, interactive experience, users gain key financial decision-making skills and apply their learning to real-life scenarios. Students will learn important skills such as how to better understand and manage financial aid, comprehend spending and investing decisions, navigate school expenses to avoid unnecessary debt, and set savings goals and budgets.
Chock-full of important life skills, these courses will give you a more thorough understanding of your current personal and school-related finances as well as help with future decisions. Working to become financially literate and learning to properly plan for your expenses, you will be giving yourself a financial head start for your future.
The Foundations of Finance class takes place on Mondays from 5:00- 6:00 pm in Instructional Center room 109. The first series runs February 4- February 25th, and the second takes place March 25- April 15th. Sign up today at the healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/finance. Register soon, each session has only 30 slots!
]]>Marketing Intern
]]>We spoke to the Health Initiatives (HI) dietitians to learn if this old adage is really true. HI dietitians Amber Johnson and Leah Galante, said, “5-9 servings of fruits and vegetables is the recommended daily amount.” Johnson encouraged students, “explore new fruits and vegetables, recipes, cooking methods, and determine what works best for their taste, schedule and budget.” It is important to incorporate different types produce into your diet, as they “contain necessary vitamins and minerals that help strengthen your immune system and prevent chronic disease. They also contain necessary water and fiber, which help you stay full and engaged.” Fruits and veggies could help prevent drowsiness in your 8 am classes and keep you energized during the late afternoon classes.
You do not “have to up end your lifestyle to include more fruits and veggies. It can be as simple as having a banana on the way to class in the morning, or snacking on carrots and hummus while studying”, Galante added. If those options do not work for you, try some Greek yogurt with fresh fruit or a smoothie with produce and protein. Trail mix or dried fruit are easy snacks for students to grab on the go.
There is some truth to the saying “an apple a day keeps the doctor away,” but it does not have to be taken at face value, as any variety of fruits and veggies will do the trick. Incorporating more produce into your diet can help you feel more energized, engaged and ready to take on whatever the day may bring. So next time you grab a snack, choose some fruit or veggies. Your body and mind will thank you. If you would like to find more information about healthy eating, visit healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/nutrition.
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]]>Employee well-being activators are ambassadors and champions of well-being within the Georgia Tech community. Activators serve as role models within their respective groups or departments, inspiring others to flourish and thrive. They serve as a well-being conduit relaying information about events and programming to their peers.
“Activators are the ‘first to know’ about the latest health and well-being happenings on campus,” said Health Initiatives’ Health Educator Jocelyn Resnick. “Those who are selected will gain a variety of skills related to leadership, well-being, and fostering healthy behavior change that is not only relevant to their everyday lives but transferable into their future professional goals.”
Employee well-being activators spend 3-4 hours each month hosting programs, leading healthy challenges, and integrating well-being into their office. Applications are currently open and reviewed on a rolling basis. It is highly recommended that every campus department have at least one activator. You can find a full list of current activators as well as the application at healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/wba.
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Health & Well-Being
]]>Galante recommends stepping into the kitchen and creating your own masterpiece. “By making your own pizza, you’ll be able to select a variety of healthy options to top your pizza.” Vegetables are a great topping. “Bell peppers, tomato slices, and spinach add some appealing color and a nutrient density,” added Galante. For additional flavor use spices and herbs such as basil, garlic, and oregano. “I recommend whole grain crust options for the extra fiber and flavor…whole grain naan is a great alternative to the traditional pizza crust, especially when you’re in a hurry,” said Galante.
For inspiration try out some of these easy naan bread pizza ideas Galante shared and enjoy National Pizza Week.
Ingredients:
2 Whole Grain Naan Breads
1 Tablespoon olive oil
½ cup sauce: tomato, pesto, or BBQ (1/4 cup for each naan)
Desired toppings (see ideas below)
Topping combination ideas:
Instructions:
Communications Officer II
Health & Well-Being
]]>Attend a Health Initiatives Program or Event.
Health Initiatives offers a number of resources to help you care for your personal well-being, through individual consultations or group format. You can join the Adulting workshop to increase your life skills and elevate your self-confidence, or register for Wellness Coaching to learn how to better manage your stress, or drop in for Mindful Mondays that takes place on Mondays from 4-5pm in the Student Center (Juniper Room). They also have the Student Mindfulness Book Club that you can register to practice the art of being present. If you feel better honing these skills by yourself through an app, Alexa Health is a great online resource that you should check out as well.
Identify the cause of stress and set aside time for relaxing.
This habit can be a significant step in lowering your general stress levels. To end stress altogether can feel impossible at times, therefore limiting its prevalence in your mind is the next best thing. Establish a time to reflect on your stressors. Try to identify the cause of the stress and if there is anything you can do to reduce the negative impact it will have on your day. If you catch yourself worrying throughout the rest of the day, remind yourself to let it go and focus your energy on relaxing instead!
Find a community.
College can sometimes be isolating, which can often make it feel like you’re fighting your battles alone. If you are interested in joining a student organization to find community on campus, Georgia Tech has over 500 organizations. Maybe you want to find a new hobby or expand on your talents, and learn new skills. No matter what your preference, it is important to find a group of people you can trust to lean on when needed. It can be highly therapeutic, and a reminder of the importance of a support system.
Have fun on campus!
Need a study break but don’t know what to do with yourself? There are always cool events on campus for you to participate in, from sporting and activity nights to movie screenings and concerts that take place around campus. So join in on the fun and find events that make you happy and treat yourself to a night out close to home!
Seek help from professionals.
If you think you may need help, don’t hesitate on setting up an appointment at the Counseling Center or the Stamps Health Psychiatry Clinic. If those aren’t your preference, try joining one of the many support groups on campus, or visiting one of the resource centers, such as the Women’s or LGBTQIA resource centers. If none of those options appeal to you, try simply reaching out to a wellness coach or your peers for support. Sometimes, the best way to make your stressors feel not-so-formidable is to share them with someone else.
Prioritize your own health and wellness; both physically and mentally.
Focus on taking care of yourself first and foremost this semester. Learn to say “no” and don’t bite off more than you can chew. Try a relaxation activity such as meditation, yoga, try visiting the Campus Recreation Center sauna, or getting a massage. Get out and moving; spend some time off campus or just outside of your typical study areas. Sometimes all you need is a change of scenery and some fresh air to do the trick! Work on adjusting your mindset and practicing small acts of self-care every day. You are at university to achieve academic success, but don’t forget to prioritize your own health and well-being. Allow this moment of self-reflection to be one of inspiration and motivation in all areas of your life.
Remember that you are right where you need to be. You have already succeeded by getting into this prestigious institution, yes it will come with challenges but do not allow the obstacles to deter you from your end goal. Try your best and learn not to stress about what lies ahead but instead enjoy the process, it will all work out in the end! Share your self-care practices with us by using the #selfcareselfieGT and tagging @gthealthinitiatives or submit your photo here. If selected you will be featured on the HI Instagram page and you will receive a prize. For more resources and tips on how you can best care for yourself this semester, visit healthinitiatives.gatech.edu.
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Wellness coaching, the latest offering by HI, assists students in optimizing their well-being through goal-setting, forward-thinking, reflection, and self-discovery. “We are excited that wellness coaching allows students to discuss any health and well-being topic they want. This service lets students have a space to work towards goals and solve problems,” shared health educator, Elaine Miller. HI has three professional staff members trained or certified as health coaches. These coaches can work with undergraduate and graduate students in the areas of:
Students register online and then participate in a one-hour meeting to lay out their coaching plan and follow up with bi-weekly meetings with their coach.
The Center for Academic Success provides academic coaching for undergraduate students. Through academic coaching, students are able to work on developing effective and efficient study habits. “Getting academic coaching is the easiest and most effective way for one to create immediate improvement in his or her classroom performance and reduce the stress associated with academics at GA Tech,” said Donald Pearl, director of the Center for Academic Success. After making an appointment online, students meet with a professional coach to make an action plan in areas such as time management, study skills, grade improvement, and metacognitive ability.
LEAD offers Leading Edge coaching, available to both undergraduate and graduate students. The Leading Edge program encourages students to explore, experiment, and improve their individual and team leadership skills. Wes Wynens, director of LEAD, explained that “great business and professional leaders use coaches to help them accelerate their careers. As employers increasingly look for leadership, communication, and collaborations skills in their new employees, you can give yourself a head start by working on these core skills while you’re here at Tech." Students who apply and are selected are paired with either a trained peer or professional leadership coach and have five to six 1-hour coaching sessions over the course of a semester where they explore self, team, and organizational leadership.
Peer coaching, offered by the Counseling Center, is a unique service that provides one-on-one, peer-to-peer consultations to support and facilitate academic and personal success. Peer coaches are trained students who can help their peers in the areas of adjustment to college or adjustment to Tech, academic difficulties, stress, relationships, and more. Students can self-refer for this service online through the Counseling Center’s peer coaching website. ”Peer Coaching offers a unique benefit for students to meet with their coaches in the evenings or even on weekends, and can text or grab coffee with their coach. It also offers students the opportunity to connect one-on-one with someone who really “gets it” because they have been through similar experiences before, because they are also students at Tech,” said Dr. Irene Daboin of the Counseling Center who coordinates and oversees the program.
For more information about any of these programs or to make an appointment or apply, please go to the websites below:
Luckily, both of the strains that are heavily circulating in the United States and our region are in this year’s flu vaccine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone 6 months or older get the flu vaccine every year. “The flu vaccine reduces the risk of getting the flu, and reduces the severity and duration of illness if you do get the flu,” shared Dr. Benjamin Holton, senior director of Stamps Health Services. In addition to getting your flu shot, you should wash your hands frequently, try to avoid close contact to people who are sick, and clean and disinfect surfaces and objects, like your cell phone, that can be contaminated with germs.
If you do get sick, you should stay at home and not return to work or classes until you have been without a fever for 24 hours without fever-reducing medications, such as Tylenol or Advil. Dr. Holton continued, “staying home and limiting contact with others is the most effective way to prevent spread of flu within the community.” You should also cover your nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing and wash your hands frequently or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Get lots of rest and drink lots of fluids like water and sports drinks – avoid drinks with caffeine as they can be dehydrating. People at increased risk for flu complications may also be prescribed antiviral medications to help treat the flu.
It isn’t too late to get your flu shot if you haven’t done so already. Students who have paid the health fee can get their flu shot for free at any appointment at Stamps Health Services or at any upcoming flu shot clinic. The next flu shot clinic is on January 30th from 9am to 3pm on the 2nd floor of Stamps Health Services. Employees can stop by the Stamps Health Services Pharmacy Mondays through Fridays from 9am to 4pm to get their vaccine. Employees enrolled in Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Georgia can get the vaccine for no copay. Healthcare-enrolled Georgia Tech employees can also earn $25 toward their 2019 USG Well-Being credit.
For more information about the flu and about flu shots on campus, go to health.gatech.edu/flu.
]]>Once a month, the Health Initiatives' dietitians will be in the Student Center healthy space to showcase new recipes, free samples, and offer healthy tips with Flavorful Fridays. The next event is January 11th and will follow the theme, New Year, New Eats. Learn a new recipe and enjoy tasty samples of the new recipe. The dietitians will also be available to answer any nutrition questions you may have. Learn more about flavorful Fridays at http://healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/well-being/nutrition
Back by popular demand, this semester is Pet therapy which is a guided interaction for all members of the Georgia Tech community with trained (and really cute) dogs. This program helps individuals cope with daily stressors from work, school, and relationships. It’s also proven to improve self-esteem and deliver focused interactions with peers, colleagues, and professors. “Pet therapy is an excellent way for students to reduce stress as midterms and finals approach,” said health educator Jocelyn Resnick. “Interacting with therapy dogs has been proven to lower blood pressure, lower cortisol levels, and improve [your] sense of belonging.” The next event is scheduled for January 15th from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Find out more about pet therapy at http://healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/pet-therapy
Did you know that every Monday beginning January 28th at 4:00 p.m., Health Initiatives hosts mindful Mondays in the Student Center, Juniper Room? All students are welcome to drop in during the one-hour-long event to color or participate in guided mindfulness exercises. “Mindfulness is being awake in your current experience rather than dwelling on the past or anticipating the future,” said health educator Sarah Morales. “It helps alleviate the stress and anxiety you may be feeling as a college student.” No appointments or registration is needed for this event. For more information about the different resources we provide related to mindfulness, check out http://healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/well-being/mental/mindfulness
Don’t forget to join Health Initiatives for a Ted Talk discussion on topics pertinent to societal influence on health and well-being - BYOL (bring your own lunch). The first discussion will begin January 29th from 11am-12pm in the Student Center room 343.
We understand that Georgia Tech can be busy and stressful, but taking time for yourself to relax and improve your mental health and well-being is more important than any assignment (yes, we said it). Take a small chunk out of your day and stop by one (or all) of these amazing programs—you won’t regret it! For a full list of programs and events go to http://healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/ for additional information.
]]>Popcorn:
Popcorn is easy to carry and just as easy to munch on when you are driving long distances or flying over the holiday season. “Air-popped, plain popcorn is a great whole grain, high fiber option you can easily pick up and take anywhere,” said Johnson. You can also customize your popcorn with anything in your spice rack to create a unique treat. Add cinnamon for a sweeter flavor or curry powder to add a punch to your popcorn, or check out our Poppin’ trail mix recipe.
Dried Mango:
This tropical delight is sure to leave you with a sunny disposition. “The natural sugar in dried fruit will help keep your energy up during long travel days,” said Galante. Dried mango is rich in vitamin A, which keeps skin healthy and boosts your immune system. They are also a good source of B-complex vitamins, which maximize energy and relieve stress.
Almonds:
Almonds are great on their own, paired with fruit, or on top of Greek yogurt from the airport convenience store. “Almonds are a fantastic source of antioxidants, healthy fats, protein, and fiber,” said Galante. The high protein and fiber levels can promote feelings of fullness and help you stay satisfied along the way.
Seasonal Fruit and Veggies:
Get in the holiday spirit with seasonal fruits and vegetables like carrots, pears, or clementines. Whole fruits are a great source of fiber and water. “Vitamin C rich fruits like pomegranates and citrus, and vegetables, like carrots, can supplement your fluid intake and support immunity,” said Johnson.
Choosing healthier snack options can sometimes be limited while traveling. Enjoying a fun seasonal food may be what is most satisfying to you. Whether you are flying or driving this holiday season, snacks will help keep you energized all day long! For additional information on nutrition at Georgia Tech, go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/nutrition.
]]>Health & Well-Being
Communications Officer II
]]>The grant this year will provide funding for student travel to the BACCHUS Peer Educator Conference for two Georgia Tech students and one staff member. In addition, the grant will fund the Arrive Alive DUI Simulator, the parent handbook for Talking with College Students About Alcohol, and the creation of informational cards related to alcohol safety for students.
The GOHS grant has supported several health and safety initiatives on Georgia Tech’s campus throughout the years such as:
The grant runs through September 30, 2019. For more information about the Young Adult’s Grant, click here.
]]>Communications Officer II
]]>Health Initiatives is offering a five-week Foundations in Personal Finance course for Georgia Tech students. The course covers the basics of finance helping you better prepare for the future. This course, based on Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace, empowers students to save, budget, avoid debt, and spend wisely. The program focuses not only on personal finance concepts and knowledge but also practical applications that lead to behavior change. Each week you will learn about a new topic:
This program takes place every Monday from 5-6pm beginning January 29th through February 26th and is free for both undergraduate and graduate Georgia Tech students. There will be a second course March 26th through April 23rd. Registration is required as there are only 20 available spots for each session of the five-week course. You can register at http://healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/finance
]]>There's no one nutrition plan that is right for everyone, so it's important to follow a healthy eating plan that's packed with tasty colorful foods that fit your unique lifestyle. Our dietitian will help you discover what works best with your routine. This semester, the Eating Smart & Happy series will include:
Our dietician will also provide you with tips and tricks and answer your nutrition questions so you can stay healthy and happy this new year.
For a complete list of dates and topics visit, http://healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/nutrition-services
Are you looking for more personalized information and nutrition strategies? For only $5, you can meet with our dieticians for an analysis of your current diet and a personalized action plan. Schedule an appointment by calling (404) 894-9980.
]]>Mindfulness is a practice that one can be achieved in many different ways. Health Initiatives has an entire line-up of activities that will let you try out different approaches to mindfulness. Starting on Monday, February 5th, 2018, Georgia Tech students, faculty, and staff will be able to participate in multiple mindfulness events and activities. The week includes meditation courses, tabling events, and even a dark chocolate sampling!
In addition to the Mindfulness Week events, Health Initiatives will be offering a free, weekly drop-in mindfulness class for faculty, staff, and students. Each class will provide a guided meditation and discussion of the benefits of continued practice. Classes will be held in the Student Center Crescent Room Tuesdays from 4:00 – 5:00 p.m., from January 16th through April 24th.
Also, the GT Mediation Club is offering a 5-week meditation course (every Sunday). The course begins on February 4th, 2018 and ends on March 11th, 2018. Throughout the 5 weeks, you will learn about meditation practices designed to bring out a greater sense of calmness and clarity. This series will help calm your thoughts and discover the natural clarity of a balanced mind. In the modern world, it is difficult to find a time and place to step back and focus on mindfulness, but with this 5-week course, one will be able to reach mindfulness with ease. The course fee is $15.00, and for more details contact jtsukahara@gatech.edu.
For more information about the weekend events, go to http://healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/mindfulness.
The Office of Health & Well-Being (HWB) and the Division of Student Life have come together to host three surveys examining a variety of mental health and well-being topics this spring:
Results from these surveys will help campus leaders in understanding the Georgia Tech culture as it relates to mental health and well-being, identifying the needs of our campus, and finding opportunities to expand and add to programs and services. Each survey will provide us with a current and unique bird’s eye view of health and well-being on our campus.
The Healthy Minds Study (HMS) examines mental health, service utilization and help-seeking behaviors, and related issues among undergraduate and graduate students. HMS will provide Tech's leadership with the data necessary to understand the specific mental health needs of Georgia Tech students and identify gaps in services and programs. Over 180 colleges and universities have administered HMS since it launched in 2007. Other institutions have noted that the results have not only informed programs that directly address student mental health, but also impacted how administration and professors understand the state of mental health on campus. The results from HMS will bring about awareness of student mental health at Georgia Tech and help HWB and the Division of Student Life advocate for a campus culture shift around mental health and well-being.
The Wake Forest University Well-Being Assessment is a dynamic, multidimensional measure of holistic wellbeing in undergraduate students covering topics such as purpose, belonging, relationships, and intellectual curiosity. The assessment will help to provide a picture of student well-being at Georgia Tech and how we can best support the development of necessary skills, the availability of resources, and optimal conditions for achieving well-being. In only its second year, this assessment is shifting from the traditional study focus of examining risk-reducing behaviors to exploring the complete well-being of students.
Lastly, the Ohio State University College Prescription Drug Use Study analyzes non-medical use of prescription and non-prescription drugs. In 2015, this study found, across all institutions surveyed, that some common reasons for non-medical use of prescription drugs were to study or improve grades, relieve anxiety, to get sleep, and to enhance social situations. This study will give us a clear picture of what is happening on our campus so we can appropriately guide the development and improvement of educational programming for students and guide policy and practice at Georgia Tech.
More than half of all Georgia Tech students will be invited to participate in one of these surveys. “We are very excited to offer these surveys to our students,” explained Suzy Harrington, Executive Director of Health & Well-Being. “These surveys are pivotal in helping us understand your health behaviors so that we can promote, nurture, and enrich a community of health, well-being, and caring at Georgia Tech.” With a general lack of specific data, as noted by the Student Mental Health Action Team, it has been difficult for administrators to get a comprehensive look at the campus culture around mental health and well-being. “These surveys are an opportunity for students to share their thoughts and perceptions of well-being on campus,” continued Harrington, “allowing us to develop and enhance programs that are data-driven and speak directly to unique needs of Georgia Tech.”
“These anonymous surveys allow you to give us honest feedback on some crucial issues affecting our community” commented John Stein, Vice President of Student Life and Dean of Students. “I hope, if you are invited, you make the time to complete the survey. Your thoughts and opinions are important to us as we plan the path forward.”
Students that are selected to participate will have 2 to 4 weeks to complete the survey after receiving the initial email. Those who complete their surveys will be entered into a random drawing for multiple prizes valued up to $500. Details about how to participate, timelines, and the prize structure will be outlined in the invitation email and vary based on what survey you have been invited to.
For answers to common questions about these surveys, visit hwb.gatech.edu/surveys.
]]>The President’s Walk is a time-honored tradition where President “Bud” Peterson guides students and employees through campus along the Tyler Brown Pi Mile. Two routes will be offered: a one-mile option or a three-mile option. The walk is a great opportunity to de-stress and network with students, faculty, and staff from across campus, including the President himself! CRC Associate Director, Caroline Dotts said, “This event is a great opportunity for everyone to get up and get moving after a long day. Walking is a great way to improve circulation, strengthen muscles and it’s a great mood booster!
The health expo, taking place on the lawn between the Campus Recreation Complex (CRC) and Stamps Health Services building, will feature numerous health-related vendors who are located both on and off campus to help you make smart and healthy decisions every day. Good Measure meals and Stamps Health Services Pharmacy are just some of the great vendors you will get a chance to chat with during the event. Many vendors will have door prizes and freebies. There will also be a hydration station and make your own trail mix bar (first come, first serve).
The Health Expo and check-in/registration for the President’s Walk begin at 3 pm. Pre-registration for the walk is encouraged but not required (click here to pre-register through mycrc). The first 250 registrants will receive the official 2018 President’s Walk & Health Expo T-shirt.
At 4 pm, Health & Well-Being Executive Director, Suzy Harrington will be announcing the 2018 Certified Healthy recipients. “So many of our students and employees are doing wonderful things around campus and this initiative is a great way to highlight them,” said Harrington. This year, Certified Healthy will recognize student groups and campus departments at Georgia Tech that have demonstrated a commitment to fostering healthy lifestyle choices across all dimensions of well-being.
Following the awards ceremony, President Peterson will give remarks and officially begin the walk at 4:30 pm.
We look forward to seeing you at this year’s walk rain or shine! For more information about the walk and the event, go to hwb.gatech.edu/walk.
WEATHER UPDATE:
Escape the rain at the President’s Walk & Health Expo! Now located in the Campus Recreation Center (CRC), come by to see great vendors, enjoy tasty snacks, drink some refreshing water, and get a free SHIRT. Beginning at 3 pm, the CRC’s main floor will be filled with opportunities to keep you Smart & Healthy. The President will join us at 4 pm for remarks and to celebrate organizations and campus departments for becoming Certified Healthy. The event will end with a walk on the 5th-floor indoor track, on the treadmills on the CRC’s fitness floors, or on the Stamps Recreation Fields track if we catch a break in the clouds.
If you haven’t preregistered and secured yourself a free shirt, make sure you register for the President’s Walk on mycrc.gatech.edu. You must check in by 4:15 pm to receive your shirt. Sizes are first come, first served.
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Health & Well-Being
Communications Officer II
]]>Sexual violence affects people of all gender identities and compromises the safety and well-being of the entire Georgia Tech community. An estimated one in five women, and one in 17 men, experience sexual assault by the time they graduate from college. Nationally, survivors and their allies are embracing their voices to tell their stories in various movements including, #MeToo and Times Up. We are strongest when we raise our diverse voices together and work collectively to foster attitudes that promote healthy relationships, equality, and respect in our world and on our campus. Health Initiatives along with the Women’s Resource Center created numerous events throughout the month for the entire Georgia Tech community. Learn how you can embrace your voice to create a culture of respect, equality, and safety through these events.
SAAM kicks off with the 24th annual Take Back the Night event on Monday, April 2. This candlelight vigil honors survivors of sexual and relationship violence. Students and staff will share stories of their experience with sexual or relationship violence, either through anonymous submissions or by reading about it at the vigil. VOICE advocate Jennifer Gagen of Health Initiatives shared that “Take Back the Night is a time of reflection and community to support survivors and listen to their stories. It’s a beautiful event that gives a voice to so many who often feel like theirs is lost.” All members of the Georgia Tech community are encouraged to attend in order to support and elevate the voices of survivors.
The month culminates with the fifth annual Teal Ribbon Day on Thursday, April 12. Teal is the color of sexual violence awareness and Teal Ribbon Day is about embracing our voices to inspire action and create lasting change. Faculty and staff check your Georgia Tech mailboxes early April for your teal ribbon. Students can find ribbons in Health Initiatives and the Women’s Resource Center or you can request them at voice@gatech.edu. Help us “paint” Georgia Tech teal by wearing these ribbons in support of survivors. “It is extremely powerful to show a unified display of support for survivors and advocacy for sexual violence prevention across campus,” said VOICE advocate Amanda Planchard of Health Initiatives. There are several ways that you can participate in Teal Ribbon Day:
• Join us for a photo at 11:15 a.m. at the Free Speech Amphitheater behind the Ferst Center for the Arts on April 12 to show support for survivors and advocacy.
• Wear a teal ribbon throughout the entire month and take a photo of yourself, your peers, friends, or colleagues. Send it to voice@health.gatech.edu so we can share on our Facebook page (Georgia Tech Health Initiatives).
• Share your photo on your social media page and tag Health Initiatives (Instagram: @GTHealthInitiatives, Twitter: @HealthyGT). Please use the hashtag: #useyourVOICEGT.
• Request additional ribbons for your class/student organization/department by emailing voice@gatech.edu.
On any day of the year, you can learn more about VOICE, by visiting healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/voice. Additionally, we invite faculty, staff, and students to our Sexual Violence Prevention Alliance (SVPA). Email voice@gatech.edu to learn about SVPA or to sign up for our email list so you can stay up to date on events and programs throughout the year. Students who want to be involved throughout the can join the student organization, People Against Unwanted Sexual Experiences (PAUSE) by emailing pause.GT@gmail.com. Additionally, thank you to all of the campus partners associated with this event. This month would not be possible without the support of Health Initiatives, PAUSE, SVPA and the Women’s Resource Center.
]]>Health & Well-Being
Communications Officer II
]]>For the first time ever the dieticians of Georgia Tech put together, a month-long “menu of options” dedicated to answering many of the questions they hear from you. This year’s theme, “Go Further with Food,” shows how food plays an important role in every moment of the day. Making smart food choices can improve your overall health and performance, as well as reduce food loss and waste. Your mind and body crave a healthy balanced diet to help you perform at your best. Your gut keeps your body’s immune responses and inflammation under control; this is especially helpful during high-stress situations. These gut hormones influence your cognitive ability, like processing new information, staying focused on tasks, and recognizing when you are full. These are all crucial to helping you perform the best you can at Georgia Tech. The National Nutrition Month events focus on helping you better understand what these meals and snacks look like and where to find them.
The dieticians are starting from the store up with events that range from cooking demos to a grocery store tour. There is something for everyone during this month-long celebration. You can find the full list of events here:
Eating Smart & Happy
March 6th | 11:30am - 12:30pm | Student Center Healthy Space
Learn how mindful eating, sustainability, and training for a race (or life!) can help get you to your healthiest self.
Eating Smart & Happy
March 13th | 11am - 12pm | West Village Dining
Learn how mindful eating, sustainability, and training for a race (or life!) can help get you to your healthiest self.
Pi Day Fun Run & Walk
March 14th | 11am - 1pm | Campus Recreation Complex
Join us for the first Pi Day Fun Run! First 100 finishers get a shirt, first 150 finishers get free pizza pi.
Eating Smart & Happy
March 14th | 12:30pm - 1:30pm | Brittain Dining Hall
Learn how mindful eating, sustainability, and training for a race (or life!) can help get you to your healthiest self.
Healthy Snacking on the Go
March 15th | 11am - 1pm | Student Center Healthy Space
Just in time for spring break, the Health Initiatives’ Dietitians will get you prepped for eating healthy on the go!
Publix Georgia Marathon & Half Marathon Georgia Tech Volunteer Zone
March 18th | 5am - 2pm
Sign up to volunteer for a Georgia Tech Tradition! Go to hwb.gatech.edu/volunteer.
Eating Smart & Happy
March 27th | 11am - 12pm | North Avenue Dining Hall
Learn how mindful eating, sustainability, and training for a race (or life!) can help get you to your healthiest self.
Whole Grain Sampling Day
March 28th | 11:30am - 1:30pm | Student Center Healthy Space
Learn about the benefits of whole grains and try some tasty foods!
Grocery Store Tour
March 30th | 10am | Publix Midtown
Walk through Publix with a dietitian and learn how to eat healthy on a budget. Registration required.
For more information about the month and Health Initiatives’ nutrition services, go to http://healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/nutrition-services
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Health & Well-Being
Communications Officer II
]]>“This week will provide students with the tools they need to succeed and flourish in their interactions with others,” explained Health Initiatives health educator Sarah Morales, MPH,CHES who created the concept for this week. It can be difficult to build healthy relationships, especially with the need for balance between academic and social activities. Healthy Relationships week includes several opportunities to engage with your peers or even make a Valentine for a friend.
This week will begin on February 13th and include opportunities for students, faculty and staff to participate in a variety of fun activities that center around healthy relationships at the Campus Service’s Carnivale in the Student Center. Stop by one of our outreach events or join us for a coffee talk where you can grab a free coffee and bagel and engage in “real talk” with your peers about dating and relationships at Tech. Mark your calendars for these upcoming events:
Campus Services Carnivale
Date: Tuesday, February 13, 2018
Time: 10:00am-1:00pm
Location: Student Center
Join us at the annual Carnivale event and find out what a healthy relationship looks like.
Valentine’s Day Tabling
Date: Wednesday, February 14, 2018
Time: 11am – 12pm
Location: Healthy Space
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with flowers, candy and condoms by creating your own unique Valentine’s Day bag.
Coffee Talk Partnering with VOICE
Date: Thursday, February 15, 2018
Time: 11am-12pm
Location: Under the Couch, Student Center
Free coffee and bagels while you talk about relationships, dating and everything in between. This event is
]]>Health & Well-Being
Communications Officer II
]]>The initiative was created through the office of former First Lady Michelle Obama as part of the Let’s Move! Initiative to solve the nationwide issue of obesity. On November 16, 2014, Georgia Tech teamed up with PHA to meet 23 guidelines, all with an eye toward shaping good habits for our future leaders. Over the past three years, Georgia Tech made campus wide changes such as providing healthier food and beverage options in dining venues, creating opportunities for physical activity, and offering wellness programming on campus.
During the first year of college, student obesity and overweight rates increase by more than 15%. Working with nation’s leading nutrition, physical activity and campus wellness experts, PHA created a set of guidelines to build healthier environments for college and university students. Georgia Tech dietitian Amber Johnson, who was instrumental in the initiative, said, “This accomplishment truly reflects the hard work, collaboration and dedication of many departments within Campus Services to support a healthier campus. Over the past three years, these departments worked together to implement the 23 required guidelines across campus. Our success speaks to Georgia Tech’s deep commitment to creating a culture of health and well-being for all of campus.”
One of the first action items Georgia Tech completed that qualified for the initiative was the implementation of a local food procurement program that increases the purchase of local and sustainable foods. Over 40% of the food served on campus is locally sources and 33% of our food offerings are sustainable. This led to the creation of Klemis Kitchen, a cornerstone programs of the Healthy Campus Initiative at Georgia Tech. Klemis Kitchen was made possible by the Georgia Tech Student Alumni Association’s Gift to Tech. This campus food pantry, provides free meals to college students in need. With the help of Campus Kitchens, a national effort towards student-powered hunger relief, volunteers prepare individual meals from campus dining hall leftovers. They use food that would otherwise go to waste and use it to provide meals for students at Georgia Tech. During the first semester alone this program provided 725 free healthy meals to students. This program fights hunger on the grassroots level for Georgia Tech students who are food insecure and reduces food waste on campus.
In addition to this there are several other programs that were created to reach this achievement including the creation of the Tyler Brown Pi Mile trail and tray less dining throughout campus. The habits our students develop during their time at Tech including what they eat and how much physical activity they get can last a lifetime. Our students are the leaders, entrepreneurs, parents, and influencers of tomorrow. The healthier their habits are, the healthier the future becomes. Our successful implementation of the Healthy Campus Initiative will help ensure our students have the tools they need to create these healthier habits now.
]]>Health & Well-Being
Communications Officer II
]]>Every Monday, beginning May 28th, Health Initiatives will post a weekly challenge to their Instagram account (@gthealthinitiatives). Challenges will include topics related to nutrition, sun safety, physical activity, gratitude, and more.
“This is an easy way to keep focused on your health and well-being this summer,” said Sarah Morales, health educator. “The challenges are designed to help you explore the five dimensions of well-being – physical, emotional, spiritual, social and professional.” Leah Galante, nutritionist, continued “Being healthy is more than just eating well and being physically active, we hope that this challenge reminds you to try something each week to improve your personal well-being.”
To participate, you can either like and comment on Health Initiatives’ post or post your own Instagram photo using #HealthyJackets and tagging @gthealthinitiatives. A winner will be announced each Friday and will win a prize related to that week’s topics.
For more information about the challenge, including the weekly challenges and rules, go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/healthy-jackets.
]]>Research shows that there is a strong connection between animals and people. On average, almost 7 in 10 American households have a family pet. Leaving for college often means having to part with a beloved animal in pursuit of higher education. Pet therapy provides Georgia Tech students and employees with the opportunity to slow down and take some time for themselves in a familiar environment.
According to a study conducted by UCLA, the simple act of petting animals releases an automatic relaxation response. Petting animals promoted the release of serotonin, prolactin and oxytocin- all hormones that can play a part in elevating mood. Additionally, this can play a part in your physical health as well. Pet therapy has been shown to lower blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health as well as slow down breathing patterns for those who are experiencing anxiety. It can also help stimulate memory and problem solving skills. These lovable creatures offer a sense of friendship, comfort, confidence, and reliability, which can lead to fewer feelings of loneliness.
“Pet therapy is a fun way to release stress in a social and care free environment,” explained Health Educator Jocelyn Resnick. “We had such a positive response when we piloted the service this past semester that we knew that we needed to bring it back and expand it. We are looking for opportunities to personalize this program even more,” said Resnick. You can now place requests to bring pet therapy to your department or residence hall.
For a complete list of dates, times, and locations and more information about the program, visit - http://healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/pet-therapy.
]]>Health Initiatives is proud to be able to provide all students free access to Transit Financial Wellness. Transit is an online course designed to provide college students with the skills to understand their finances and successfully transition in and out of the college experience. This course is a highly personalized, self-paced, interactive experience where users learn key financial decision-making skills and apply their learning in real-life scenarios. The course focuses on three main topics: school expenses, personal expenses, and career/post-graduation decisions. Health Initiatives Health Educator Sarah Morales is excited with how this course will help students, “this course can help alleviate some of the stressors associated with finances.” She continued, “we understand that money will always be a stressful area for some, but we want to do everything we can do to help set Georgia Tech students up for success.”
Your physical and mental health can directly benefit from having strong financial well-being. This course uses real-life scenarios affecting college age students and provides the tools to reach plausible solutions.
The key information in this training includes:
To learn more and register for this course, go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/transit.
]]>Stay Hydrated with Fruits and Vegetables
Washed, whole fruits are not only a source of fiber, as Health Initiatives Dietitian Amber Johnson explained, but also a great source of hydration. Water-heavy fruits, like watermelon and berries, and vegetables, such as cucumbers and celery, can act as substitutes for drinking water. To get the freshest fruits and vegetables and do less damage to your wallet, Health Initiatives dietitian, Leah Galante recommends consumers opt for in-season options like cherries, peaches, tomatoes, and strawberries.
Travel Friendly Whole Grains
Whole grains are also a good travel-friendly source of fiber and carbohydrates to keep your energy up throughout the summer. Trail mix, seeds, and crackers are healthy grain options for an easy grab and go summer snack that doesn’t require refrigeration. How do you know its whole grain? The most accurate way to be sure is by checking the ingredient list. If the first ingredient listed contains the word “whole” in it then the product is likely to be predominately whole grain.
Keep Your Refrigerated Foods Cold
Choosing healthier snack options can sometimes require refrigeration. When choosing snacks for a day outside Amber always recommends bringing a cooler and eating those snacks first. If lugging around a cooler doesn’t appeal to you, you can freeze a water bottle and use it in a lunch box to keep your items cold throughout the day. Low-fat cheese sticks, overnight oats, or Greek yogurt are great and filling snacks to keep your hunger at bay.
Whether you’re heading to the beach or spending the weekend at a music festival, these smart, travel-friendly food choices will keep you energized and full all day long! For additional information on nutrition at Georgia Tech, go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/nutrition.
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Well-Being Activators are ambassadors and champions whose mission is to enhance a culture of health, wellbeing, and caring at Georgia Tech. They serve as well-being role models within their respective group or department, inspiring others to flourish physically, emotionally, spiritually, professionally, socially, and personally.
“Well-Being Activators play a pivotal role in moving the well-being needle on campus,” said HI Senior Director, Stacy Connell. “The Activators take a unique approach to health and well-being by incorporating it into every day for their colleagues and friends. It can be as easy as establishing walking meetings to creating full-fledged residence hall health challenges. We provide the tools and support while the activators infuse the changes into their respected areas.”
Well-Being Activators commit one hour per week to implement programming or promoting health, well-being and caring in addition to a group meeting every month. They are also charged with communicating health and well-being messaging to their respective group or department and encouraging participation in programs and events on campus. Yolonda Cameron from Legal Affairs & Risk Management became an activator to, “cultivate a community of health, well-being and caring on a practical level. That is, it means not only sharing various health & wellness tips and initiatives at Georgia Tech but also facilitating a variety of health & wellness activities.” Some of her programmings included herbal tea breaks, walking tours and reflection hours.
Those who are selected will gain a variety of skills related to leadership, well-being, and fostering healthy behavior change that are relevant to their everyday lives and transferable into their future professional goals. Chemical Engineering student and Well-Being Activator, Justin Goveas said, “I’m able to take what I’ve learned in the activators program and incorporate it into the lives of people around me. It’s something I’m thankful for because I’m better able to be there for my friends and the people I care about.”
Applications to become a Well-Being Activator for fall 2018 are currently available! The student application is due September 13th with a mandatory training September 23rd for selected applicants. The employee application is due September 27th with a mandatory training October 12th for selected applicants. For more information and to apply, go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/WBA.
]]>Health Initiatives, in collaboration with the RESILIENCE ERG, invite all Georgia Tech employees to carve out time in your busy lives for the Mindfulness Book Club. This club will help you build the foundation you need to uncover simple approaches to increasing mindfulness within your chaotic every day. Join your colleagues every Wednesday over lunch from noon – 1pm with a guided discussion of Mindfulness Meditation: Your Guide to Achieving a Life of Peace by Reducing Stress and Anxiety through Mindfulness Meditation by Daniel K. Barton. Each week focuses on a new chapter where you are invited to share your experiences and collaborate on key takeaways that can easily translate into your professional and personal lives.
Tiffiny Hughes-Troutman, Ph.D., Director of Health Behavior within Health Initiatives said, “We know from the research that the practice of mindfulness has a powerful influence on health, well-being, and happiness and I want employees to experience these benefits through the book club.” Practicing mindfulness can bring both physical and psychological improvements to your health. Being mindful makes it easier to enjoy moments as they occur, become fully engaged in activities, and creates a greater capacity to deal with adverse life events and anxiety. By focusing on the here and now, many people find that they are less likely to get caught up in worries about the future or regrets over the past. They are also better able to form deep connections with others. Mindfulness has also been shown to help relieve stress, treat heart disease, lower blood pressure, reduce chronic pain, improve sleep, and alleviate gastrointestinal difficulties.
Hughes-Troutman created this club with the intention that employees on campus can improve their focus and work more effectively at their jobs. If you are ready to take the first step in fully embracing each moment, go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/mindfulness for a list of locations and to register.
Registration is required and you must purchase your own individual copy of the book. The first chapter will be discussed during the first session August 29th.
]]>Gold Certified Healthy Recipients include:
Certified Healthy Recipients include:
Striving for Certified included the Center for Academic Success. All three of these certification levels expressed a commitment to the five dimensions of wellness within their organization. Organizations that qualify as certified healthy in any capacity, are setting the right tone for the rest of campus. The programs and practices they establish internally set a precedent and show that they value their employees or members and create compassionate environments for them to flourish as individuals. Connell said, “Congratulations to each and every one of you for making Georgia Tech a great place to live, learn, work, and play.”
Health Initiatives accepts applications to get Certified every spring. Want to make sure your department or organization gets recognized this year? Email Sarah Morales to be notified when next year’s application becomes available.
]]>Communications Officer II
Health & Well-Being
]]>Students and employees, you can find a full list of new offerings for the fall below:
Students:
Employees:
You can find all of these programs and more at healthinitiatives.gatech.edu.
]]>Fit to Thrive was developed to incorporate new health challenges and explore different campus resources every week. Participants learn about health and well-being opportunities on campus while also setting their own personal goals and working with a health educator to reach them. This group program takes a very individualized approach through personal goal setting. Previous attendee and Stamps Health Services Pharmacy Tech, Jennifer Ayers said, “my favorite part of the program was the hands-on approach to activities. We went to West Village with the nutritionist as well as took a yoga class.” This interactive program is not restricted to a classroom but instead goes out and explores health opportunities across campus.
Fit to Thrive explores on-campus programming in a safe and inclusive environment. Healthy living is more than just diet and exercise and this five-week series addresses a different component of health every week. Ayers said, “my biggest takeaway was learning about myself and how I react to different life stresses. It taught me how to be more mindful of my actions.” Created for both students and employees, Fit to Thrive will spend this fall focused on nutrition, physical activity, mindfulness, understanding your strengths, and stress management.
Registration is now open and required for this free series. CRC membership is not required to join this program. Go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/thrive to register and learn more.
]]>“Peer health educators are the next step in making students and the Georgia Tech campus healthier,” shared Health Educator Sarah Morales, one of the program advisors. “However, students can get so much more out of participating in this program as a peer educator. They will gain transferable skills that they can use in their future career, no matter what it is.” The National Peer Educator Study found that students who serve as peer educators develop:
Additionally, peer educators reported growth in the areas of critical thinking, problem solving, and theory application.
Health Educator JaPeera Edmonds, one of the program advisors, shared that she is “looking for dedicated and passionate students who want to make an impact on campus and want to leave Georgia Tech a better place than when they started.” She continued, “we are very excited about this group and want to focus on creating the next in peer education right here at Georgia Tech.” Peer educators selected to serve in this program will receive mentorship and training from health professionals on program planning, evaluation, public speaking, and much more. Peer educators will host outreach events, such as tabling wellness events and other campus-wide programs, and lead programs they create for students in residence halls, classrooms, and beyond. Our peer educators will also be trained to conduct bystander intervention training for different campus partners.
Applications to become a peer health educator open now through Friday, October 5th. Want to find out more before you apply? HI is hosting two information sessions:
September 13th - Student Center 343, 4 - 5pm
September 25th - Student Center 319, 11am - 12pm
More information about the responsibilities, requirements, and benefits, as well as the application, can be found online at http://healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/healthyjacket.
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Health Initiatives (HI) is hosting a series of one-hour workshops to improve your relationship with food using an intuitive eating approach. These workshops are free to attend and take place every other Thursday beginning on September 6th at 4 pm in the Student Center Room 343. They cover different intuitive eating principles to help you reach your goals and fuel your body with a non-diet approach to eating.
Intuitive eating empowers you to tune into your bodies signals, break the dieting cycle and trust your body again. Popular diets often take an overly restrictive approach with limited food options and excessive calorie counting. Breaking any of these rules can often result in feelings of shame, guilt, and frustration that tend to only worsen eating habits. HI Dietician Leah Galante said, “Students have so much on their plates and it becomes easy to drown out what our bodies are telling us they need. These workshops will teach you how to trust your body and to understand when what, and how much to eat.” In an environment as hectic and as busy as Georgia Tech, it’s important to be able to recognize what drives hunger and when it’s right to eat. Each class is dedicated to addressing a different intuitive eating principle and finding ways to make them work best for you. Full class dates and topics below:
Sept 6, Student Center 343 - Reject the Diet Mentality
Sept 20, Student Center 343 - Honor Your Hunger & Respect your Fullness
Oct 4, Student Center 343 - Make Peace with Food & Challenge the Food Police
Oct 18, Student Center 343 - Discover the Satisfaction Factor & Honor your Feelings without Using Food
Oct 25, Student Center 343 - Respect your Body & Exercise - Feel the Difference
Nov 8, Student Center Piedmont Room – Honor your Health
Register online at healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/intuitive-eating.
]]>Ever spent so much money in one purchase that your bank checked in to make sure someone hadn’t stolen your card? Although succulent shaped candles, setting spray, video games, and M&M’s are important, learning how to budget and spend wisely is even more important. Budgeting now will help you establish healthy financial habits that will extend into your future. The Foundations of Finance course helps students manage a budget and differentiate your “needs” from “wants.”
The Fortune 500 is not, in fact, a Nascar race. Understanding the Fortune 500 is only a small part of learning about the stock market and how to invest. Foundations of Finance features the online program, Transit-Financial Wellness, which educates students on investing, mortgages, and credit scores. Starting to invest now can provide a sense of stability, as well as set you up for financial wellness that can last well into the future.
Student loans are not something to “deal with later.” While you may not be able to make contributions to pay them off now, you can adjust your spending and savings habits to prepare for the future. Student loans can cause a lot of stress, but Foundations of Finance aims to lessen that burden by teaching you how to manage school expenses and avoid unnecessary debt, as well as educate you about repayment options and responsibilities.
No idea how taxes work? Not sure how to incorporate your taxes into your budget? No clue as to how to manage your taxed income? This program is designed to give you a strong foundation that will help you understand how basics like taxes work, how to invest taxed income, and how to make smart decisions that take taxes and external factors into account.
Many college students are pretty in the dark about a lot of the aforementioned topics, and that’s ok! Believe it or not, it’s ok not to know everything. Unfortunately, in the case of personal finances, however, ignorance is not bliss. Now is a great time to start thinking about your current finances and learning how to budget, avoid debt, and spend wisely.
Maybe you do think about your personal finances, but it makes you nervous, sweaty, and maybe even a little queasy. You might already be overwhelmed with balancing your health, academics, and social life— and money is just another ball you’re trying to juggle. That’s what Foundations of Finance is here for. You have enough to worry about, lessen the burden by taking control of your financial future.
Managing money is important for everyone, regardless of age, major, or career aspirations. Start making wise financial choices now, by enrolling in the FREE Foundations of Finance course or signing up for Transit Financial Wellness.
Two sessions of Foundations of Finance will be offered this fall, each with a maximum capacity of 30 students. The first session meets on Mondays at 5 p.m. beginning September 17th, and the second session starts on October 29th. Classes are held in Student Center Room 301. Registration is required to attend and spots are limited. Register for session one before September 17th and session two before October 29th online at healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/finance.
You can sign up for Transit Financial Wellness anytime online at healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/finance.
]]>Do you spend more time with Michael Scott or Leslie Knope than with your friends and family? Does Netflix keep asking you if “you’re still there?” You may need some tips on “social budgeting”— i.e., how to make time for people, food, and extracurricular activities in your busy schedule. Week 1: The Power of Adulting focuses on social budgeting, transitioning to being an adult, and dealing with independence. Learn how to juggle all your commitments with ease (and still make a little time for The Office) during this session!
Is your goal just to make it to the end of the day? Is your double shot, extra whip iced coffee the only thing getting you through? You’re not alone. Sometimes it’s really hard to set goals and find your “why” in life. Finding your “why”— why you work hard, why you get out of the bed in the morning, why you’re here at Tech— is critical to your success as an adult. And it’s ok if you’re not sure what it is yet! Week 2: Crafting a Purpose is all about crafting your purpose, smart goal setting, and helping you find your why!
Sure, having 10,000 connections on LinkedIn is definitely better than not having 10,000 connections on LinkedIn, but there’s much more to networking. Week 3: Navigating your Network teaches students how to network, create mentorships, and understand how these fit your professional career. If you could benefit from some career tips, meaningful mentorship, or engaging with a panel of professionals, come to week 3!
It’s tempting to count the thinly sliced lettuce and tomato on your Big Double Burger as a serving of veggies but you’re going to need to up your veggie game. No fear! Week 4: Cooking for Life teaches students what a healthy diet looks like and how to maintain one on a college campus, as well as how to grocery shop with your health in mind. And, once again, free samples!
Why is it so hard for us to talk about ourselves? You’re awesome, you’re qualified—learn how to market yourself. Week 5: Build Your Brand is about building your brand. By learning how to market yourself on LinkedIn and Facebook, you’ll be able to build a brand you’re confident in.
If any of these apply to you then the Adulting series is calling your name! Learn how to “adult” every Thursday from 4:30-5:30 in West Village beginning September 20th. Go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/adulting to register and become a full-fledged adult!
]]>So why is practicing meditation important in one’s daily life? Club moderator and Health Initiatives Health Educator, Jocelyn Resnick said, “Through mindfulness, an individual is able to focus on their present state and inner self. By thinking about the now they can slow down for a moment and let go of negative feelings and emotions.”
Don’t believe us? Check out these three reasons why you definitely should join in on the meditation!
Free breakfast!
Yes, that’s right! FREE breakfast coming right up! Since our meetings take place in the morning, we will offer a light breakfast for those who attend. Not a bad start to the day, huh?
You will become more mindful throughout your daily life
The Student Mindfulness Book Club encourages the practice of mindfulness both during and outside of meetings. Studies show that meditation and mindfulness do in fact reduce the amount of stress in one’s life. Resnick said “practicing mindfulness on a regular basis will help students feel more grounded and aware throughout their everyday life”.
You will become a member of a supportive and mindful group of people
Practicing meditation with others creates a large community of individuals who all have the goal to learn about new mindfulness techniques and tips on how to manage stress. Open dialogue in these meetings allows students to learn from their peers and discover which techniques work best!
Grab your friends and join us for the first Student Mindfulness Book Club. The book will be provided at the first event. Go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/mindfulness to register before October 1st.
]]>On September 25th, Dr. Vic Strecher will deliver a talk to Georgia Tech students and employees about the value of living a purpose-filled life. Dr. Strecher, CEO and Founder of JOOL Health, created the JOOL application to serve as a personal life coach for users to achieve their goals and focus on their purpose. Attendees will have the opportunity to speak with Dr. Strecher before the event begins during a small reception.
Dr. Vic Strecher, a dynamic speaker and award-winning pioneer in the field of behavioral science and professor at the University of Michigan School of Public Health, lost his nineteen-year-old daughter, Julia, to a rare heart disease that resulted from an infant case of chicken pox. This life event challenged every aspect of Strecher’s personal and professional experience and drove him to an exhaustive search, from ancient philosophy to cutting-edge science, to pinpoint the potential and impact of purpose in our lives. What is it? How can we discover it? And what does the latest research tell us about the importance of how purpose affects our overall health and happiness?
In 2015, he founded JOOL Health, a digital health solution company with the goal to help individuals achieve a harmonious balance across the four dimensions of life: personal, family, work, and community. Director of Health Behavior, in Health Initiatives, Dr. Tiffiny Hughes-Troutman said, “this talk will provide strong, compelling messages on living life with greater health and happiness and will provide reassurance that self-directed positive change is possible.”
The JOOL application delivers personalized guidance, tips, insights, and science-backed messages to help users discover and maintain their life purpose. Dr. Strecher will discuss how the app works and provide insight into discovering your own authentic meaning in life. Dr. Hughes-Troutman said, “the ability to bounce back from life’s experiences…can help us be happier and more resilient. Purpose in life also helps us reframe stressful situations to deal with them more productively, thereby facilitating recovery from stress and trauma.”
The benefits to discovering your purpose include improved mental health, reduced depressive feelings, improved sleep, greater job satisfaction, and the promotion of diversity and inclusion. Overall, having an end goal to model your actions after helps everything else fall into place. Dr. Strecher puts it best: “Your purpose becomes your inner motivator, turning on the ignition switch in your brain to transcend the noise in your life and focus on what matters most.”
The talk takes place from 12-1 p.m. in the Student Center Ballroom and both Georgia Tech students and employees are invited to attend. A reception co-sponsored by Health Initiatives and Dining Services will be held from 11:30 a.m. to noon where attendees can speak with Dr. Stretcher before the talk. For more information on JOOL and the event, see http://healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/jool.
]]>Ready to begin your journey with mindfulness? Get started with Mindful Moments. Every Wednesday from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the Student Center Cypress Room, students can drop in and relax by coloring or participating in short, guided mindfulness exercises.
“Mindfulness is a great way to practice self-care,” shared health educator, Sarah Morales. “In a nutshell, it’s about being as kind to yourself as you would be to others and knowing when your resources are running low and stepping back to replenish them. With the mindfulness exercises and coloring we will be offering, this new program is a great way for students to recharge.” Coloring, while it may sound silly, is a simple way to get started with mindfulness. The act of coloring allows you to focus on a simple task drawing your attention away from yourself and your worries and into the present moment. “Scientifically, coloring activates the right side of your brain which is the creative, artistic region of the brain,” explained health educator, JaPeera Edmonds. “Activating that side of the brain quiets the right side of your brain which is responsible for analytical and cognitive processes and is often activated when you are stressed or worried.”
Mindful moments begins October 10th and runs through December 5th. Have a scheduling conflict? Check out the Health Initiatives webpage for more resources and options to support your mental health and well-being. From pet therapy to our JOOL Health app, there are lots of resources to support you.
]]>Germs can pass to your hands by touching an object that someone coughed or sneezed on or was previously touched by some other contaminated object. When these germs get onto hands and are not properly washed off, they can easily spread from person to person. Poop (feces) from people or animals is an important source of germs like Salmonella, Escherichia coli, and stomach (gastrointestinal) illnesses like norovirus, and respiratory infections like adenovirus, and hand foot and mouth disease. These germs can get onto hands after using the bathroom but also in less obvious ways, like after handling raw meats that have invisible amounts of animal poop on them. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a single gram of human feces—which is about the weight of a paper clip—can contain one trillion germs.
Follow these simple steps from the CDC for the most effective hand wash:
Many diseases are spread by not washing hands with soap and clean, running water. The chemicals present in soap help break down oils on your hands and under your fingernails that can harbor microbes. Soap also encourages scrubbing with further removes germs from the skin's surface. According to the CDC, hand-washing with soap could prevent about 1 out of every 3 episodes of diarrheal illness and nearly 1 out of 6 episodes of respiratory infections when done properly. If soap and water are unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. But remember, hand sanitizer is not a replacement for regular handwashing.
Don’t forget it’s currently flu season and the best way to prevent the spread of the flu in addition to hand washing is by getting a flu shot. For more information about receiving the flu shot go to health.gatech.edu/flu.
]]>Schedule a Halloween Movie Marathon.
Watching movies is a great way to take a stress-free break and spend quality time with friends. Whether its horror films, Charlie Brown, or something nostalgic from your pre-teen glory days, you’re bound to find a great movie to help you replace your stress with Halloween spirit and boost your mood! Health Initiatives health dducator Sarah Morales said, “Movies are an easy way to spend time on your self-care. They let your mind rest and create a nice distraction for a few hours from any stressors you may have.”
Ghost from technology for more you time.
Want to try something extra spooky? Practice some healthy ghosting and take a break from your electronics and social media. Make a conscious effort to switch everything off, and relax. Health Initiatives health educator, Elaine Miller recommends, “Slowing down, turning off your devices and creating memorable experiences in real time instead of on your phone.” If you are looking for a place to slow down and unwind Health Initiatives hosts weekly Mindful Moments: Drop in & Relax sessions to help you learn new stress management techniques to incorporate into your every day!
Dress up for the Halloween Holla 5K.
Costumes, fitness, and prizes, oh my! Campus Recreation (CRC) is hosting its annual Halloween Holla 5k on October 26th at 7:30 a.m. Costumes are highly encouraged for the costume contest portion of this event. The treats don’t stop there, the first 200 students to check-in get a free t-shirt. Take time to celebrate fitness and see some zany costumes in the process. For more information, check out crc.gatech.edu/halloweenholla!
**** This event is postponed to Wednesday, October 31st at 7:30 am due to the impact of Hurricane Willa!
Boost your mood with spooky tunes.
Listening to Halloween-themed music can brighten any activity, from working out to studying. Movie soundtracks, spooky noises, and classics like Thriller can be a festive mood-booster. Music has been shown to boost the brain’s production of the hormone dopamine and decrease feelings of anxiety and depression. Next time you need a mood booster throw on some tunes and increase your dopamine levels.
Make Halloween themed healthy snacks.
Candy corn and the vast expanses of sweet treats are great to celebrate this time of year. For some variety and balance there are also tons of healthy snacks you can make that are just as Halloween-y as candy corn. In need of some ideas? Health Initiatives dietitian, Leah Galante shares new easy to follow recipes every Tuesday at healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/tuesday-tastes.
No matter what your style this Halloween make sure to carve out some time specifically for yourself. Practicing self-care is an important component of your overall health and well-being. For more self-care programs and events go to, healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/self-care.
]]>The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath
“I felt my lungs inflate with the onrush of scenery—air, mountains, trees, people. I thought, ‘This is what it is to be happy.’”
The Bell Jar is the only novel written by the American writer and poet Sylvia Plath. The story follows a young woman, Esther Greenwood, after she gains a summer internship in New York City. Her experience is not what she expects, and her mental state quickly worsens. Greenwood’s descent into mental illness parallels Plath's own experiences. The novel contains many important lessons about mental health. “Plath suffered from mental health disorders her whole life. In her only novel, she channels her personal history of depression and bipolar disorder into this fictional story of a woman's journey through young adulthood, suicidality, and the 1950's therapeutic experience,” said health educator Elaine Miller. “It is a must-read that shaped my view of not only historical mental health systems but also mental health and femininity today.”
Born on a Blue Day by Daniel Tammet
“It was the strangest thing: the very same abilities that had set me apart from my peers as a child and adolescent, and isolated me from them, had actually helped me to connect with other people in adulthood and to make new friends.”
Born on a Blue Day offers a unique first-hand perspective into the mind of a high-functioning, 27-year-old British autistic savant with Asperger's syndrome. He can perform extraordinary calculations in his head, learn new languages in a week, and even broke the European record for digits of pi memorized and recited (22,514). Although Tammet is one of only about 50 people with synesthesia and autism, it makes an incredibly interesting read for anyone—and also offers themes that are universally applicable. “This autistic savant's autobiography is an extraordinary explanation of how his mind processes information,” said health educator Elaine Miller. “He describes how differently he sees the world and interacts with others. This would be a good read for anyone struggling with feeling different or not fitting into the typical mold.”
Goodbye Ed, Hello Me by Jenni Schaefer
“Real hope combined with real action has always pulled me through difficult times. Real hope combined with doing nothing has never pulled me through.”
Goodbye Ed, Hello Me is the story of Jenni Schaefer’s battle with and victory over her eating disorder. Schaefer tells of how she defeated her eating disorder (Ed) by learning to treat it as a relationship, not a condition— which enabled her to break up with Ed, once and for all. “This book portrays an accurate depiction of living with an eating disorder,” said health educator Jocelyn Resnick. “I think a lot of individuals can relate to the issues with the ‘inner critic’ and body image.”
Two Turns from Zero by Stacey Griffth
“My theory is to manage both the answer yes and the answer no, without feeling guilty about either!”
Two Turns from Zero is a health and fitness book written by self-empowerment expert and SoulCyle Senior Master Instructor Stacey Griffith. However, the book focuses on exercise (specifically spin classes), but also contains valuable lessons about mental health and how it relates to fitness. Griffith shows readers how to take the energy from your workout and use it to boost your emotional wellbeing. “Stacey Griffith does an excellent job of portraying real life hardships and how she channeled that energy into fitness,” said Resnick. “She also provides meditation techniques to help you find inner peace.”
Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates
“You are growing into consciousness, and my wish for you is that you feel no need to constrict yourself to make other people comfortable.”
Between the World and Me was written as a letter to the author’s son about the realities of being a black man in the United States. The book dives deep into the racism woven into American culture and reveals how socialization can impact mental health. “I recommend this book because it offers a unique perspective into the life, challenges, and hopes of navigating the world as a black man,” said health educator Deontez Wimbley. “It is suited for anyone looking to broaden their scope and understanding of the world in another person's eyes.”
Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn
“The face you give the world tells the world how to treat you.”
Sharp Objects is a novel that follows newspaper journalist Camille Preaker as she reports on a series of brutal murders. Camille just returned from a brief stay at a psych hospital and finds herself battling her own demons. “This fascinating book deals with a variety of mental health issues including alcoholism, severe depression, and Munchausen by Proxy,” said health educator Sarah Morales. “A page-turning thriller, Camille returns to her hometown to investigate the murders of two young girls and must unravel the psychological puzzle of her past to find the truth today.”
Monkey Mind: A Memoir of Anxiety by Daniel Smith
“The bargain was this: Admit the anxiety as an essential part of yourself and in exchange that anxiety will be converted into energy, unstable but manageable. Stop with the self-flagellating and become yourself, with scars and tics.”
Monkey Mind articulates what it is like to live with anxiety. Smith unravels the different layers of anxiety and expresses the pain and absurdities of the disorder in a way that is both relatable and sincere. Smith grapples with the question of why he, a smart and capable man, is such a mess. “This is a great memoir because the author was able to describe what it’s like living with anxiety with emotion, depth, and most importantly humor,” said Morales. “This book put into words how someone living with anxiety moves through the world and helped me better understand how to support someone living with anxiety.”
It can be hard to prioritize your mental health and well-being, especially when you are pushed to prioritize academics, work, and extracurricular activities. This National Authors Day and thereafter, take time to check in on your own mental health. You can find additional resources on mental health at healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/mental.
]]>Intuitive eating workshops focus on improving students’ relationship with food. It rejects the diet mentality, encouraging us to honor our hunger, feelings, bodies, and overall health. “There is a common perception that weight is the sole measurement of our health,” said Leah Galante, a Health Initiatives dietician. “The concept of intuitive eating and the 10 principles it is based upon help us wade through the myths and misinformation in order to honor our own health and individual physical and emotional needs.” The next intuitive eating workshop, “honoring your health” is November 8th in the Student Center Piedmont Room at 4:00 p.m. You can honor your health by recognizing that progress—not perfection—is what counts. Learn more about the intuitive eating approach and how you can register for the workshop at healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/ intuitive-eating.
Pet therapy is a guided interaction for all members of the Georgia Tech community with trained (and really cute) dogs. This program helps individuals cope with daily stressors from work, school, and relationships. It’s also proven to improve self-esteem and focus interactions with peers, colleagues, and professors. “Pet therapy is an excellent way for students to reduce stress as midterms and finals approach,” said health educator Jocelyn Resnick. “Interacting with therapy dogs has been proven to lower blood pressure, lower cortisol levels, and improve [your] sense of belonging.” The next event is November 16th from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the College of Computing. Find out more about pet therapy at healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/pet-therapy.
Every Wednesday at 3:00 p.m., Health Initiatives hosts mindful moments in the Student Center Cypress Room. Students are welcome to drop in during the hour-long event to color or participate in guided mindfulness exercises. “Mindfulness is being awake in your current experience rather than dwelling on the past or anticipating the future,” said health educator Sarah Morales. “It helps alleviate the stress and anxiety you may be feeling as a college student.” For more information about mindfulness, check out healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/mindfulness.
Georgia Tech can be busy and stressful, but making time for yourself to relax and improve your mental health and well-being is more important than any assignment (yes, we said it). Take a small chunk out of your day and stop by one (or all) of these amazing programs—you won’t regret it! For a full list of programs and events go to, healthinitiatives.gatech.edu.
]]>Colorfy
Mindfulness is an important practice that can equip people with the ability to cope with physical and mental stress. By teaching you to lean towards difficult experiences instead of suppressing them, mindfulness has been proven to improve levels of anxiety and depression. Art therapy through coloring is a great mindfulness tool to relax your mind and reduce feelings of tension and turmoil. “Coloring is a great stress reliever because it is a mindfulness practice that allows you to focus on a simple task, which draws your attention away from yourself and your worries and into the present moment. The ability to stay calm and think clearly in times of stress will improve your well-being, said Health Initiatives health educator Sarah Morales.” This app provides the benefits of mindfulness coloring right on your smartphone. Within the app are hundreds of templates of animals, characters, patterns, and mandalas to choose from. Colorfy is a great way to slow down and practice mindfulness in any situation: from your couch to the tech trolley. To learn about additional ways to incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine, check out healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/mindfulness.
JOOL
Do you ever feel like your life is snowballing and you are unsure how to manage it? Having trouble finding the source of your stress or mental discomfort? Self-management and self-awareness are important to your overall well-being, as they help get to the root of these issues. Moreover, self-awareness is linked to greater happiness and greater self-transcendence— heightening our abilities to overcome the personal limits we set for ourselves. Enhancing our self-management and self-awareness can help us achieve our goals, but it can also be difficult getting started. Fortunately, there are many tools which can help us develop these personality traits, like the JOOL health app. JOOL is a personal life coach that combines the science of purpose, advanced technology, and predictive analytics. The app provides motivation to keep you on track, helping you work through your problems and achieve your personal goals. With insights such as “what makes you tick?” and a daily journal, the app also encourages self-awareness and helps you track your growth. To find out more about the JOOL app and its many well-being and performance benefits, check out healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/jool !
Forest
Time management is something you’ve heard about it, talked about, and you may have even taken classes on it. But, time management is easier said than done. With dog memes and cat videos all over the internet, it can be hard to avoid procrastination and focus on the task at hand. The Pomodoro Technique is a simple task management method that is used to overcome procrastination. Health Initiatives health educator Elaine Miller said, “This method is great to remind you to take breaks but also keep you working productively.” The method consists of using timers to set a specific time period to focus on the task at hand (usually 25-40 minutes), followed by a specific amount of time for a break (usually 5-10 minutes). The Pomodoro method is proven to alleviate pressures from time, reduce interruptions, and enhance concentration allowing you to focus on what’s important. Forest is a Pomodoro-style app that is designed to help you focus and reclaim your concentration. When you want to focus on something, you start a timer, which plants a tree. The more tasks you complete distraction-free, the larger your forest grows! By including beautifully-animated trees rather than just a simple timer, Forest provides an extra incentive to stay focused. For information on programs that can help you reach your time-management goals, check out visit healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/mental.
Sleep Cycle
When’s the last time you woke up and felt well-rested? Sleep is crucial to your overall health, and most college students aren’t getting enough of it. “The need for sleep is substantially underestimated," according to Tiffiny Hughes-Troutman, director of health behavior. "So many college students power through on insufficient sleep thinking that they are fine, but then accumulate a sleep deficit that can lead to mishaps, accidents, and a lowered quality of life,” said Hughes-Troutman. The Sleep Cycle app encourages you to be more mindful about how much sleep you get, while also helping you feel more rested when you can’t quite squeeze in those eight hours. The alarm clock app analyzes your sleep and wakes you up in the lightest sleep phase to evoke the feeling of a natural alarm clock. But of course, the best thing you can do to improve how rested you are is to get more sleep! To learn more about the importance of adequate sleep and some tips on how to sleep better, check out healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/ sleep.
Insight Timer
Stress is everywhere however, there are many ways to manage stress and reduce its negative effects on your health. Meditation is a stress-management method that is proven to reduce stress. During meditation, it’s easy to focus and eliminate the tangles of thoughts that may be crowding your brain and causing stress. The Insight Timer application is a great stress-management tool. This meditation app features ambient sounds, personalized presets, and milestones for tracking your daily practice. There are over 12,000 guided meditations, music tracks, talks, and courses. From the beginner to the expert, Insight Timer is a great simple way to incorporate meditation into your daily routine. To find out more about meditation and relaxation techniques, check out healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/mindfulness
These apps are a great way to start or continue a path towards improving your overall well-being, but you don’t have to do it alone! Georgia Tech Health Initiatives is dedicated to helping the campus community on the path to achieving your healthy lifestyle goals. If you want to find more ways to practice healthy behaviors and engage in on-campus activities check out healthinitiatives.gatech.edu.
]]>Now put those leftovers to good use with these healthy recipe twists!
Potato Pancakes
Add some greens, flour, and egg to your mashed potatoes to whip up some potato pancakes.
Ingredients:
2 cups mashed potatoes
2 tablespoons flour
1 egg, beaten
Optional add-ins: cooked meat or veggies, cheese or additional spices
Oil for cooking
Directions:
Sweet Potato Quesadilla
Use those leftover sweet potatoes along with some greens and cheese for another tasty dish!
Ingredients:
1 large or 2 small tortillas
1 oz Cheese
½ cup Leftover sweet potatoes (roasted, casserole, mashed)
½ cup Spinach
Directions:
Leftover Turkey Sandwich
Ingredients:
Leftover Turkey slices
Cranberry sauce
Bread, 2 slices
Stuffing
Arugula or green of your choice
Directions:
*For a hot sandwich and an additional twist, add cheese (Galante recommends Brie or Gouda). Heat sandwich in a small pan with 1 tablespoon oil over medium-high heat until cheese is melted and bread browns on either side (3-4mins each side).
Your leftovers can stay in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days or frozen for 3 to 4 months depending on the type of food and how you store it. Reheat sauces, soups, and gravies by bringing them to a rolling boil. “Always cover your leftovers when reheating them to retain moisture and ensure that food is heated all the way through. Most importantly, when creating your tasty leftover hacks be sure the internal temperature reaches 165° F,” said Galante. To learn more about food safety tips go to USDA Leftovers and Food Safety.
]]>“We are exposed to the sun’s damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays year round. So, we should wear sunscreen year round.” said Stamps Health Services senior director, Dr. Ben Holton. But, if that isn’t convincing enough, here are some additional reasons to protect your skin, even in the cooler months:
Lower your risk of skin cancer (melanoma).
The most important and most obvious reason to keep protecting your skin is the risk of skin cancer. Every hour one American dies from melanoma. But, a recent study showed that regular sunscreen use reduced the incidence of melanoma by 50-73%! Even if you don’t see the visible effects of sun damage (which can still happen in the winter), you’re still at risk for skin cancer. The more sun you get, the more likely you are to develop certain skin cancers. Protect your skin!
No embarrassing tan lines in your holiday cards.
Although tans and burns may be rarer during these months, they’re possible, especially when Georgia hits a sunny 75 degrees (like it did in 2015—on Christmas). No one wants tan lines, especially when those tan lines will be seen by everyone. Going on vacation over winter break? Just chilling at home? Wear sunscreen and avoid tan lines, burn lines, and redness!
Avoid the pain of sunburns.
A sunburn can occur in any month. People with certain conditions, on certain medications, or with fairer skin are even more susceptible to burns— even in the winter. Sunburns can cause pain, fever, and blistering— and who wants that? Furthermore, snow burn from sunlight reflecting off snow or ice-covered ground can cause skin damage. Although we do not get a lot of snow here in Georgia, it’s still a good idea to wear sunscreen throughout all the fall and winter months— especially if you’re going home to a snowier state.
Save the wrinkles for later.
Sun exposure contributes to signs of aging, such as wrinkles. In fact, a study showed that UV exposure is responsible for 80% of visible facial aging signs. The face is constantly exposed to sunlight, even in the fall and winter months. This means that UV rays impact your face even when it’s colder. By protecting our skin year-round, we can lessen the impact of aging. So, put on sunscreen and save those wrinkles for later!
Avoid weakening your immune system.
Sun can impact more than your skin. Many studies have revealed that sun exposure can have negative impacts on your immune system. Experimental animal studies showed that UV exposure can impair resistance to bacteria, parasites, viruses, and fungi. These infections are not limited to skin, but also concern systemic infections. Although the data is recent, there is significant evidence that UV rays from outdoor exposure can impair the human immune system. Better safe than sorry— protect your body by protecting your skin.
The sun is always out. Although the sun can have positive effects, such as increasing Vitamin D levels, it can also have serious negative effects on your body. Protect your skin during these cooler months and wear sunscreen!
]]>
Created by the Jordon Porco Foundation (JPF), Fresh Check Day is an event focused on uplifting mental health and well-being and advocating for suicide prevention through a carnival-themed atmosphere that helps connect students with mental health resources on campus. Georgia Tech is proud to bring this event to campus on Wednesday, September 12 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM in the Student Center Ballroom. The ballroom will be filled with booths run by student groups and campus departments hosting interactive experiences like mental health bingo and yoga. The event will also have entertainment, free food, and door prizes.
“The goal of this event is to increase awareness of mental health resources for students in a fun and interactive carnival-like atmosphere,” shared HI Health Educator JaPeera Edmonds. “College can be difficult and it can feel like everyone and everything is against you.” Another HI Health Educator Elaine Miller continued, “our hope for this event is to break down barriers for students who feel like they don’t have somewhere to go or someone to talk to.” Fresh Check Day is different from a typical health resource fair because it is designed so students can engage in dialogue about mental health and to build a bridge between students and the mental health resources available on campus, in the community, and nationally for them.
This national event takes place at numerous universities across America each year. “We hope by hosting this event at the beginning of the year we are encouraging students, especially first-years, to check in on each other and ask for help when they need it,” said HI Director of Health Behavior, Tiffiny Hughes-Troutman. “Georgia Tech has so many programs and services to support student mental health and well-being, and this event is a great way to get the departments who offer them all in one place.”
Don’t miss out on this great opportunity to connect with other students and campus departments. Mark your calendar for Wednesday, September 12th 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM in the Student Center Ballroom.
For additional information about mental health and well-being resources on campus, go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu or counseling.gatech.edu.
]]>Health Initiatives health educator Jocelyn Resnick said, “Students can expect a fun lighthearted environment to take a break and practice gratitude leading in to the holidays.”
The event will feature an arts and crafts project that incorporates gratitude as well as a throwback to your favorite Thanksgiving sitcom episodes. You can also enjoy a hot chocolate bar and accompanying snacks. All activities and events are free for students.
Health Initiatives health educator Jocelyn Resnick said, “Students can expect a fun lighthearted environment to take a break and practice gratitude leading in to the holidays.”
Bring your roommate, bring your friends and enjoy a quick study break focused on gratitude and start the holiday season off right!
]]>I have always had a personal passion for health and wellness since I was a child. I knew from a young age that I would be working in the helping profession, but never thought it would be specifically in public health. Now with over ten years of extensive experience in the field related to teaching and advocacy from different universities traditionally and online, there is no doubt that I found my niche!
I am grateful for my career in college health as it has allowed me the opportunity to serve as the Interim Director for the Center for Health Advocacy and Wellness (CHAW) at Florida State University. Prior to accepting the Interim Director role, I was the Assistant Director for CHAW; in which my main responsibilities included overseeing campus-wide initiatives encompassing alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs education/prevention and wellness initiatives. Prior to FSU, I worked at the University of Florida as a Health Promotion Specialist in GatorWell Health Promotion Services. I had the opportunity to work as a generalist on numerous topics including alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs, sexual health, stress/time management, sleep hygiene, eating disorders/body image, healthy relationships, tobacco cessation, and wellness coaching in the living and learning communities on campus.
I have also had the opportunity to serve and chair numerous committees locally and nationally related to alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs, wellness, diversity and inclusion, health equity, and social justice.
I am excited about this position because of my love for health and wellness. I believe that Georgia Tech has a commitment to not only students but also employees to ensure they have the awareness and resources to thrive in every area of their life. In addition, I think with my background in public health I have the opportunity to utilize my skills which include but are not limited to planning, implementing and evaluating best practices in health and wellness by using evidence-based research to attain a comprehensive and holistic approach for success and well-being.
How do you envision Health Initiatives evolving in the future under your new leadership?
I envision Health Initiatives evolving in the future under my leadership by building on the current foundation to promote prevention strategies. I am excited to be leading the development and implementation of well-being initiatives and programs aligned with evidence-based research and innovative approaches to Health and Well-Being. My goal is to make sure students and employees understand and value our mission of cultivating a thriving environment that enhances lifelong well-being for those who live, learn, and work at Georgia Tech. In addition, I look forward to building strong relationships and partnerships internally and externally to ensure students and employees are pushing our vision forward collectively to have a positive and lifelong impact on the Georgia Tech community.
What originally interested you in pursuing this position?
To be honest, I was hesitant in pursuing this position at first because I truly loved my job at FSU. My department and campus stakeholders that I had the opportunity to work with each and every day made it extremely challenging to leave. After some deep deliberation, I realized this position was a great combination of my passion and love for health and wellness and did not want to miss a great opportunity to work for a reputable school that is committed to health and well-being.
In addition, I was excited for the ability to expand my professional portfolio by working with not only students but also employee wellness which I think is a population that is often easily forgotten in higher education. I understand the importance of employee wellness as it should be prioritized since they often are on the front line and play a valuable role in students’ success and wellbeing. Lastly, I would be remiss if I did not say the opportunity for me to live closer to my family in North Carolina was a huge perk for me and caused me to be interested in pursuing the position as well!
What does working in public health mean to you?
Working in public health means that I have the ability to empower individuals and communities where they live, learn, work and play. I personally love that I have the opportunity to engage with many different topics with diverse populations/communities to promote and prevent illness or injury by encouraging healthy behaviors. The ability to empower individuals and communities on the importance of healthy decisions and strategies to utilize to achieve optimal health and wellness makes working in public health memorable and a way that I am able to combine my passion and love into one profession.
What health & well-being habits do you incorporate into your professional and personal life that you would encourage GT students to utilize?
The top health and well-being habits that I incorporate into my profession and personal life that I would encourage GT students to utilize are below.
Start each day with self-reflection. Awaken with gratitude. Every single day needs to start with a positive self-reflection of some kind. Despite life’s challenges, focus on the positive and learn how your habits will support or discourage your own health and well-being.
Stress less. I have learned that stress management starts with identifying the sources of it and accepting responsibility for the role you play in creating or maintaining it. Therefore be intentional on removing what is in your control and focus your time and energy on the solution instead of the problem.
Power off. I have learned the importance of being present and minimizing the distractions in my life. As a society, I think we rarely take the time to reflect, but doing so and owning up to how it makes you feel and what, if anything, it's doing for you, can be rejuvenating and self-liberating.
Practice self-compassion. Be gentle and forgiving of yourself and others. Embrace the lessons you learn and allow it to make you better, not bitter.
What are you most excited about in your move to Atlanta and Georgia Tech?
I would say I am most excited to be closer to my family in North Carolina! I lived in Florida for eight years and grateful for the opportunity to work at two remarkable universities and to have met some amazing people that have now turned into family.
In addition, I am excited to finally live in a city that I can live, work and play! I appreciate that Atlanta is truly diverse and provides opportunities to engage in art, culture, entertainment and so much more! I also think Georgia Tech has a great reputation, therefore to be a part of such an innovative school that is diverse and provides opportunities to learn and grow is exciting for me.
Who inspires you and why?
Michelle Obama inspires me. I feel she is a great example to follow and exudes qualities that are important to me which includes integrity, hard work, persistence, and determination! In addition, I can personally relate to many of the struggles she faced; yet she never wavered on her beliefs, which has taught me the importance of never giving up despite the obstacles I might face and to continue to advocate for change to pave the way for the next generation.
What are you most passionate about outside of your profession?
Outside of my profession, I am most passionate about my family. I am extremely family oriented and without their unconditional love, support and encouragement, I am confident that I would not be the woman I am today.
What words of wisdom do you try to live by?
"Success isn't about how much money you make. It's about the difference you make in people's lives."
Michelle Obama
]]>HIV testing contributes to maintaining a strong and healthy relationship, especially between sexual partners. “Open and honest communication and mutual respect are important aspects of a healthy relationship”, explained Health Initiatives health educator Sarah Morales. “Getting tested together facilitates dialogue and builds trust between you and your partner,” she continued. “Qualities like trust, honesty, and fairness are essential to maintain a healthy relationship. Getting tested together brings out these qualities in your relationship.” Creating and maintaining healthy relationships adds to your overall health and well-being and helps you stay smart and happy!
If you are unable to attend this clinic there are other opportunities for you to get tested on campus. Stamps Health Services provides low cost testing to students/eligible spouses. To schedule an appointment to get tested, please contact Women’s Health at 404.894.1434. It’s the responsibility of all people who choose to be sexually active to understand their status and protect their partners. The only way to know your status is to get tested. For additional information, contact Health Initiatives at healthy@gatech.edu.
]]>Health & Well-Being
Communications Officer II
]]>Cassie Bleick, a fourth-year Business Administration major entering into her third year as a peer educator, answered some questions about the program and its significance.
What inspired you to get involved with VOICE?
I think just knowing this is such an important issue, that I’m passionate about from personal experiences and seeing friends go through it. It’s something close to my heart that I want to make people aware of.
Can you tell me about peer educators? What does “peer education” look like?
So, we start with training. We’ll have Title IX coordinators come to talk about the administrative process, GTPD to talk about investigative process, speakers talk about sexual violence as a social justice issue—we basically just dive deep.
After training we start doing tabling. We table for Take Back the Night, Healthy Relationships Week, and right now its Domestic Violence Awareness month, so there’s things going on for that. We also hosted a coffee talk last year near Valentine’s day, where people came in and we facilitated conversations on relationships. So education is really whatever it needs to be.
We also give presentations for any organizations that request them. We do it to health classes, FASET, fraternities, and residence halls. We’re trying hard to reach out to student organizations. We cover “What is sexual violence?”, consent, bystander intervention, and supporting survivors.
Organizations can request a presentation through a google form.
How has your confidence grown (public speaker, leader on campus, within the movement)?
I think I have grown to be a more engaged citizen. I have participated in lobbying, protests, and conferences. I gave a presentation an outside conference called RespectCon with one of my other peer educators.
None of this is sponsored by VOICE. People within VOICE use our training outside the community. With VOICE training we understand legal rulings, what’s in place, what’s getting rolled back. We know the specifics. When people come and bring bills, we are able to read it and understand their effects.
Why do you think VOICE peer education is important to the GT community?
Because we need someone talking about these issues. If you don’t talk about it, you’ll see the numbers go down and it’ll just get wiped under the table. We still know this happens on our campus. There’s a reason for conversations and presentations. VOICE is here to facilitate those conversations to make sure people realize this is prevalent in our community.
How do you think it’s more effective since peer educators are students, not adults?
It’s like having your mom tell you about sex. No one will listen, it’s awkward. But when it’s another student, you can connect and talk about hinges you’re going through. We realize that some of this happens with underage drinking. Where you may feel uncomfortable telling that to an adult, we have more camaraderie with the students.
Why would you encourage people to apply to be a peer educator?
If you’re at all interested in this topic and want to make a difference and have the opportunity for fellowship, you should apply!
Be a part of the conversation. Sexual violence is a pervasive social problem. Join VOICE in its goal to end sexual violence on Georgia Tech’s campus. Apply to be a peer educator and make a positive impact on the Georgia Tech community.
All applicants will be contacted for an interview within a week of submitting their application to be a part of VOICE. All applicants will be notified at least 72 hours after their interview. All applicants MUST reserve November 5th 6-9pm and November 12th 6-9pm for training. Training is mandatory.
Interested students can apply at https://healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/voicepeered.
]]>Well-Being Activator applications are now open for employees through June 7th. Activators serve as well-being role models, inspiring others to flourish and thrive. They host programs, lead healthy challenges, and integrate well-being into their group or department. Activators gain skills related to leadership, well-being, and fostering healthy behavior change.
The goal is to have one Well-Being Activator represent every community group on campus from student organizations to residence halls to employee departments. Yolonda Cameron from Legal Affairs & Risk Management became an activator to, “cultivate a community of health, well-being and caring on a practical level. That is, it means not only sharing various health & wellness tips and initiatives at Georgia Tech but also facilitating a variety of health & wellness activities.” Some of her proposed ideas include herbal tea breaks, walking tours and reflection hours.
Numerous activators are already spreading this message across campus to their respected departments and organizations. Well-Being Activator, Byron Stokes implemented these practices into the BuzzCard office through a weekly mindful meditation session. Student, Amy Pollman created a well-being competition between floors in the honors dorm encouraging healthy habits such as drinking water, getting eight hours of sleep, and exercising. Nakisha Green from the Scheller College of Business, created a box outside of her office filled with chocolates and random acts of kindness notes. Each activator is encouraged to take a personal approach to the way they share the well-being message.
Activators attend one half-day training led by the Health Initiatives Department. This is followed by monthly meetings. The training is designed to help individuals develop leadership skills, learn core concepts related to health and well-being, and to teach participants how to best infuse a culture of health, well-being, and caring into their department. Chemical Engineering student and Well-Being Activator, Justin Goveas said, “I’m able to take what I’ve learned in the activator program and incorporate it into the lives of people around me. It’s something I’m thankful for because I’m better able to be there for my friends and the people I care about.” If you are interested in learning more about this program or applying for the next cohort please visit healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/well-being-activators. Student applications will be available in the fall.
]]>Communications Officer II
Health & Well-Being
]]>Fit to Thrive, creator, Jocelyn Resnick, envisioned this program well before she came to Georgia Tech. Resnick said, “While studying nutrition and exercise science in undergraduate and graduate school, I noticed a gap in the approach to obesity prevention. We talk about food, physical activity, and dieting left and right, but we barely emphasize the importance of emotional, social, and spiritual well-being in obtaining a healthy lifestyle. We forget that thriving involves a lot more than just physical weight.” This program takes a multi-prong approach to setting and achieving health and well-being related goals.
“We often associate well-being with physical health – If we practice good nutrition and engage in regular physical activity, we are healthy,” she continued. "While that is very important in achieving a healthy lifestyle that does not account for the entire picture.” This program is designed to help you find the harmony between the five dimensions of wellness; professional, emotional, spiritual, social and physical to be your best, thriving self.
Resnick’s hopes participants will finish with a better understanding of their own individualized health and wellbeing. This is a small class dedicated to providing a personal approach to wellness for each member. Registration is required for this program and can be found at - healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/thrive
]]>Health & Well-Being
Communications Officer II
]]>This program was created after numerous research studies showed that pets have the ability to improve mental health and lower anxiety. According to a study conducted by UCLA, the simple act of petting animals releases an automatic relaxation response. Petting animals promoted the release of serotonin, prolactin and oxytocin- all hormones that can play a part in elevating moods. Additionally, this can play a part in your physical health as well. Pet therapy has been shown to lower blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health as well as slow down breathing patterns for those who are experiencing anxiety. These lovable creatures offer a sense of friendship, comfort, confidence, and reliability, which can lead to fewer feelings of loneliness.
Pet therapy includes a guided interaction between a person and a trained animal. You may have previously seen pets on campus during finals week. However, since Georgia Tech students and employees experience stress and anxiety all year round, Health Initiatives is offering this program to you on a bi-weekly basis. “Pet therapy is a fun way to release stress in a social and care free environment,” said, Health Educator, Jocelyn Resnick, MPH. Resnick manages Happy Tails for all of Georgia Tech and would like to expand to additional locations. If you are interested in bringing this to your building on campus contact Jocelyn.resnick@health.gatech.edu and RSVP on our facebook page so you don’t miss your chance to de-stress with Happy Tails.
For a complete list of locations and more information about the program, visit - http://healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/pet-therapy.
]]>Health & Well-Being
Communications Officer II
]]>Applications are now open until April 6th for this prestigious designation. The application process is a quick survey that can be completed by anyone in your organization or department. There are three distinct levels to reach for: gold certified, certified or striving for certified. Each level addresses the commitment to the five dimensions of well-being: professional, social, physical, spiritual and emotional. Health Educator, Sarah Morales encourages everyone to apply, “you are likely creating a supportive and caring environment for your fellow coworkers and student groups without realizing it. We want to thank you and recognize the effort you put in to cultivating this culture of health and well-being.” Criteria for each category will be based on the following:
All recipients will be recognized at the President’s Walk on April 26th. For additional information regarding the three levels of certification as well as to apply please visit healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/certified-healthy
]]>Health & Well-Being
Communications Officer II
]]>I’ve always tried to get involved in mental health, and the activators program sounded like a great way to not only get involved with improving campus mental health but all other aspects of health as well.
What does being a well-being activator mean to you?
To me, being a Well-Being Activator means being a resource to the community and to my peers. I’m able to take what I’ve learned in the activators program and incorporate it into the lives of people around me. It’s something I’m thankful for because I’m better able to be there for my friends and the people I care about.
Which dimension of wellness do you feel most connected to and why? (professional, spiritual, social, physical, or emotional)?
Emotional, in my opinion is one of the more overlooked parts of wellness in our culture. Stress management, mental health, emotional fulfillment, these are all necessary parts of a person’s health and wellbeing... A person’s emotional state has a huge impact on the rest of their daily life. I can say from experience that when I am in a bad place emotionally, everything else in my life is affected from my classes to my diet. And that’s why I personally focus on it so much. Reaching out to someone for emotional help can be daunting for someone even though, in many cases, it can be exactly what they need. I try my best to make sure that my community is as open and inviting as possible, so, if someone has an issue, they’re comfortable enough to ask for help instead of ignoring it and letting it affect their lives in a negative way.
How do you think this group of individuals can create change on campus?
Change on campus is a pretty slow process, but I think this group can gradually start to make a difference. We’re trained in health resources and then we take what we’ve learned and bring it into our respective communities. As we grow, more people will get trained and familiar with the resources on campus, and, by extension, more people will be reached. By having a person in every organization, resident hall, friend group, etc. that is focused on the health and well-being of their peers, we can slowly start moving towards a more caring environment here on campus by gradually nudging campus culture in the healthy direction.
What is your favorite way to practice health and well-being on the GT campus?
One of my favorite things to do is to eat with my friends. Whether it’s at my fraternity, the student center, or somewhere else in Atlanta, eating with people is a way for me to relax and connect with others. It’s a time for me to talk about things that might be bothering me, or simply a time for me to hang out with people I care about.
What is one piece of health advice that you would like to bestow on the GT community?
Talk about your problems. It might seem simple, but honestly it’s one of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned here at college. We’re constantly coming up against challenges in our lives, and it can be easy to just bottle up all the stress, anxiety, and fear that those challenges bring. I know I am guilty of this myself as well. Sometimes challenges in your life can seem insurmountable, but verbalizing your fears and doubts to another person can put your problems into perspective and make your insurmountable challenges a lot easier to face. Simply opening about what’s bothering you to another person that wants to listen can be the most therapeutic experience imaginable, and it can help keep you sane in such a high-stress environment.
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Practicing mindfulness regularly has been proven to help boost creativity and problem-solving and improve working memory and focus. There are many opportunities for you to practice mindfulness here at Georgia Tech. We suggest taking a quick break from your day with one of the “50 ways” or participating in some of the mindfulness-related events happening on campus, such as Yoga for EveryBody and Mindful Movement at the CRC.
For more information about mindfulness, being present, and related on campus visit hwb.gatech.edu.
Follow Georgia Tech Health Initiatives on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter to get updates and tips throughout the month.
]]>A registered dietician will be available every other Monday at West Village Dining to help you learn about:
Mindful Eating
Eating Well when Eating Out
Brain Food
Stress Eating
Come chat with our dietician! In addition to providing you with tips and tricks about that week’s topic, she will also be able to answer your nutrition questions and help you stay healthy and happy.
Need more personalized information and nutrition strategies? For only $5, you can meet with our dieticians for an analysis of your current diet and a personalized action plan. Schedule an appointment by calling (404) 894-9980.
]]>Norovirus is a common cause of gastroenteritis on college campuses. Up to 21 million people get sick from norovirus each year in the United States – making it the most common cause of gastroenteritis in the United States. Anyone can get infected with norovirus and, because there are multiple strains, you can get it more than once.
Norovirus spreads quickly from person to person in enclosed places like residence halls and classrooms. Someone sick with norovirus is most contagious when they are actively sick (having diarrhea, vomiting, etc.) with norovirus illness and during the first few days after symptoms end. It can sometimes take up to 2 weeks or more for norovirus to get out of your system.
You can get sick from norovirus by:
Common symptoms of norovirus infection include:
You may also experience fever, headache, and body aches
Norovirus can also lead to dehydration in people who are extremely ill and have thrown up or have had diarrhea many times in one day. Some symptoms of dehydration include:
If you are experiencing symptoms of norovirus with or without dehydration:
There is no vaccine to prevent or drug to treat norovirus infection. Additionally, antibiotics are not effective against norovirus. If you are sick make sure to drink plenty of liquids to replace fluids lost through vomiting and diarrhea. Sports drinks and other drinks without caffeine or alcohol can help with mild dehydration.
The best way to prevent yourself from getting and spreading norovirus is to practice good personal hygiene. Here are SIX things YOU can do to help protect yourself and the Georgia Tech community from norovirus:
For more information about norovirus on Georgia Tech's campus, go to health.gatech.edu/health-advisory.
For more information about norovirus, visit cdc.gov/norovirus.
]]>It is unknown how this easily spread virus came to the Georgia Tech campus. It began to spread after students returned to campus from fall break. No common food source, activity, or dining or residence location has been identified as the origin.
Dining Services and Housing, in addition to other campus departments such as Campus Recreation, the Student Center, West Village, and Parking and Transportation, continue to use enhanced cleaning procedures to help prevent additional spread of norovirus on campus.
Between October 11th and October 24th, Stamps Health Services has seen 136 patients with symptoms of the illness. Additionally, as of October 20th, 226 people completed the FCDH’s survey regarding the illness with 194 people reporting having had symptoms of a norovirus infection. While Stamps Health Services has begun to see a decline in the number of students coming in for treatment, norovirus can continue to circulate on college campuses for weeks to months if proper steps are not taken to prevent spread.
Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that is commonly referred to as the “stomach bug” that causes your stomach and/or intestines to get inflamed. Preventing the spread of norovirus at Georgia Tech is everyone’s responsibility. Proper hand hygiene, in addition to maintaining good personal hygiene, is essential for preventing the spread of norovirus. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water especially after using the toilet and always before eating, preparing or handling food.
We ask all Georgia Tech community members to follow these simple steps to help prevent spread of this illness and other easily-spread infections:
If you are currently experiencing symptoms, contact Stamps Health Services for an appointment (404-894-1420).
Follow Stamps Health Services on Facebook or go to health.gatech.edu/health-advisory for the latest information.
]]>Test results from samples sent to FCDH were negative for bacteria, which means that antibiotics are not effective against the illness spreading on campus. Additional tests to see if the illness is caused by a virus are still underway.
As of October 20th, Stamps Health Services has seen 121 students with symptoms of the illness. Additionally, 194 of 226 people who participated in the FCDH’s survey reported having symptoms of the illness. Investigations are still underway to determine where the illness started and how it is spreading.
FCHD inspected the North Avenue dining hall last week to ensure cleanliness and it received an A rating. Brittain dining hall will be inspected next week.
Preventing the spread of the germ causing this illness is everyone’s responsibility. We ask all Georgia Tech community members to follow these simple steps to help prevent spread of this illness and other easily-spread infections:
If you are currently experiencing symptoms, contact Stamps Health Services for an appointment (404-894-1420).
Follow Stamps Health Services on Facebook or go to health.gatech.edu/health-advisory for the latest information.
]]>You can read the full article here.
]]>Dining services is investigating any potential food or food preparation sources and housing is enhancing cleaning procedures, especially in areas where germs are most likely to spread.
While we work to determine the cause of the illness on campus, follow these steps to protect yourself and stop further spread of illness:
The GOHS grant has supported several initiatives on campus throughout the years:
The grant runs through September 30, 2018
]]>The pharmacy accepts most insurances with a $0 copay. If you have Kaiser Permanente or do not have insurance, you can still get your flu shot for $25. Payments can be made with either a credit/debit card or a BuzzCard – cash payments are not accepted.
Stamps pharmacy can also fill your prescription needs. The pharmacy offers over-the-counter medications and consultations with its staff of registered pharmacists. Employees can get prescriptions transferred and filled by calling 404-894-1430 or electronically through their physician. Patients can request prescription refills at the pharmacy during business hours via the automated telephone refill system 24 hours a day (404-894-1430) or through the Stamps Health Services PocketRx smartphone app. Visit health.gatech.edu for more information.
*** Student flu clinics will be scheduled throughout the semester. Students also can make an appointment in the travel immunization clinic or receive a flu shot during their routine visit in the primary care clinic.
]]>Pharmacy Manager
]]>VOICE Peer Educators complete a semester of training to prepare them to be leaders on campus in educating their peers about topics such as defining consent, sexual violence prevention and bystander intervention, healthy relationships, and survivor support. The Peer Education Program looks for diverse and dedicated students who are interested in creating a safe and equitable environment for all members of the Georgia Tech Community.
Strong candidates for the Peer Education Program will have some baseline knowledge of the issue of sexual violence on college campuses, as well as public speaking skills. Students should be prepared to dedicate 3-5 hours per week throughout the 2017-2018 academic year, and ideally will plan to continue participation into fall 2018.
Review the attached flyer to learn more about the Peer Education Program!
]]>I am fortunate that my passion and career are one and the same and has always been rooted in what I love – wellness, fitness, recreation and people. I have over ten years of progressive experience in higher education working in collegiate recreation and wellness teaching university communities how to be healthy and active and the impact their health has on their overall well-being and student success.
In my most recent role at North Carolina State University in Raleigh, N.C., I had the opportunity to create and lead university wide wellness efforts to build a thriving academic community in addition to leading University Recreation healthy living programs which included intramural and club sports, outdoor adventures, fitness and wellness. I also worked at the University of Georgia and Texas Christian University as Assistant Director of Fitness & Wellness.
I serve, present and support several professional associations including the National Intramural Recreational Sports Association (NIRSA), the Partnership for a Healthier America, Building Healthy Academic Communities (BHAC) and the American College Health Association (ACHA) Faculty and Staff Health and Wellness Coalition.
I am excited to being the first Senior Director for Health Initiatives at Georgia Tech because it gives me the opportunity to define this new role for the Institute and to be a part of the existing health and well-being movement.
How do you envision Health Initiatives evolving in the future under your new leadership?
I envision Health Initiatives focusing energies and efforts on prevention, proactive care and predictive care in order for us to infuse health and well-being within the Georgia Tech culture. My hope Is that by focusing upstream in our efforts and emphasizing strengths and life skills, such as resiliency, goal-setting, kindness, mindfulness, grit, connectivity, that we can support students before they have a significant diagnosis for chronic or mental illness. My goal is that when Georgia Tech students graduate that they will know that not only did they earn a degree from this prestigious institute but that they will know with certainty that Georgia Tech cares about their health and well-being.
What originally interested you in pursuing this position?
I was interested in this position for the opportunity to expand my professional portfolio and work more deeply in public health while learning from the infamous Dr. Suzy Harrington.
What does working in public health mean to you?
For me, public health is promoting all elements of well-being - emotional, professional, social, physical and spiritual - where we live, learn, work and play. My goal is to build communities that foster healthy decision-making so that the healthy choice can be the easy choice for everyone.
What stress less (#stresslessGT) habits do you incorporate into your professional and personal life that you would encourage GT students to utilize?
What are you most excited about in your move to Atlanta and Georgia Tech?
The move back to Georgia has been such a happy homecoming for my family and me. I spent 8 great years in Athens and am thrilled for the opportunity to be back in the Peach State and closer to extended family.
I am excited to be at Georgia Tech because I love how health and well-being is an institutional priority that is supported by President Bud Peterson, Vice President Paul Strouts and many other senior leaders.
What is something you think everyone should do at least once in their lives?
Step out of your comfort zone – go sky-diving, travel abroad or move somewhere new. I’m fortunate to have had these and many other great experiences that have stretched me.
Who inspires you?
Ellen DeGeneres and Joanna Gaines.
What are you most passionate about outside of your profession?
Without a doubt - my family. I am married to the most supportive man, Josh, and have three amazing children, Mason, age 5, Logan, age 2 and Piper, 9 months. They light up my life and keep me active.
What words of wisdom do you try to live by?
“Life is a journey, not a destination.” Ralph Waldo Emerson
]]>At this year's walk we celebrated the completion of the University System of Georgia's HealthTrails challenge. Free snacks were provided to all those who reached 300 miles during the challenge. Additionally, the winners of the 300 mile giveaway were announced.
Thank you to everyone who participated. We look forward to hoting this walk again next year. If you are interested in viewing photos from this event check out the GoTech Facebook page - @GTGoTech
]]>How Much is Enough?
You should drink water every day. Most people have been told they should drink 6 to 8, 8-ounce glasses of water each day. That is a reasonable goal. However, different people need different amounts of water to stay hydrated. Most healthy people can stay well hydrated by drinking water and other fluids whenever they feel thirsty. For some people, fewer than 8 glasses may be enough. Other people may need more than 8 glasses each day. If you are concerned that you are not drinking enough water, check your urine. If your urine is usually colorless or light yellow, you are well hydrated. If your urine is a dark yellow or amber color, you may be dehydrated.
If staying hydrated is difficult for you, here are some tips that can help:
This award was named in recognition of a true administrator, this award represents the highest honor of SCHA. The Bohmann award honors those who have dedicated their careers to college health and service to SCHA and ACHA. Nominees are outstanding leaders who have established impressive standards for excellence and service both in the field of college health and in SCHA.
]]>A Day in the Life of Health Promotion Victim-Survivor Advocates
Katy Berteau and Jennifer Gagen are the Victim Survivor Advocates in Health Promotion at Georgia Tech. Together they work to provide immediate and ongoing support to a victim-survivor as they cope with an experience of sexual violence, including information on reporting options, regardless of when the violence occurred.
Q: What does a world without sexual violence look like to you?
The world would be a lot better. Sexual violence causes so many issues and problems for victim-survivors and the communities in which they live. On an individual level, survivors can experience different mental health issues as a result of their trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression and anxiety, and a general disruption of their day to day lives. On a broader level, a world without sexual violence would mean a lot of other sociological issues that are root causes of sexual violence, such as sexism, racism, transphobia, and ableism would hopefully also be lessened.
Q: What is the process like once you receive a call?
We work with students in different types of situations. How we respond to a call depends on if we have previously connected with the student or if the student is calling us for the first time. It also depends on if the student comes forward to report the situation after some time has passed, or they’re reporting immediately after the incident has occurred.
As far as sexual assault and rape, we will go with them to the police, hospital, or rape crisis centers to report the situation. We know that reporting can be a re-traumatizing experience, so being there as support is really important. We walk them through the process and what it will look like. Just being there to support the victim and to make sure their rights are being met is very beneficial to the survivor.
Sexual violence also includes dating and intimate partner violence, stalking, and sexual harassment, and we provide support and resources for students dealing with those situations as well. We also provide additional services such as safety planning, referrals to resources on and off campus, assistance with academic accommodation, and assistance with housing rearrangements.
Q: What is the most challenging part of your job?
One challenging part about being a Victim Survivor Advocate is not always being able to help the student the way you would like. This can be disheartening and frustrating at times.
Q: What advice do you have for someone who wants to become a Victim-Survivor Advocate?
It is important to have a lot of self-awareness as to why you want to do this work. It is hard and challenging, and you just have to keep sight of the end goal, which is helping people. You also really need to be mindful of self-care in the process, because you cannot be fully present and help someone to the best of your ability if you aren’t taking care of yourself as well.
If you have experienced sexual violence and need support, contact our Victim Survivor Advocates*.
Katy Berteau
Phone: 404-385-4451
Jennifer Gagen
Phone: 404-385-4464
To reach an Advocate after business hours:
Call GTPD at 404-894-2500, ask to be connected to the on-call advocate, and provide your phone number.
*Services are free, confidential, and available to any student survivor of any identity*
]]>VOICE, Georgia Tech’s sexual and relationship violence prevention and response initiative in the Office of Health Promotion, is at the forefront of engaging the Tech community. The VOICE Peer Education Program is an initiative under VOICE. To become a VOICE Peer Educator, students commit to a semester of weekly Monday evening training meetings in the fall, and continued weekly meetings in the spring semester, in addition to giving presentations to student groups and organizations after completing fall training. The hope is that Peer Educators will continue participation into the following year.
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has,” a Margaret Mead quote that a VOICE Peer Educator noted when asked what inspired them to become and continue to dedicate their time to VOICE.
Having a personal connection to sexual violence was a common motivator for many Peer Educators to get involved. “Knowing so many people who have been victims/survivors of sexual violence is what motivated me to be a Peer Educator,” one Peer Educator said. Another said that during high school, a friend was sexually abused, and when their friend confided in them, they felt a personal obligation to help in any way possible.
Peer Educators commented that sexual violence has affected friends of all genders, so “this is not only a ‘women’s’ issue and can happen to everyone.” Additionally, Peer Educators commented that the impact of sexual violence is not just limited to survivors. “Without knowledge of bystander intervention, survivor support, or consent, individuals may be facilitating sexual violence,” a Peer Educator said. Another Peer Educator commented, “Staying vigilant about language, legislation, support, and awareness is the most important step in preventing sexual violence.”
To bring awareness to the Georgia Tech community, VOICE Peer Educators are available to give presentations to students and student groups, who can submit an online request form via the Health Promotion website. Health Promotion staff-led presentations are also available upon request
“Most people are aware that sexual violence is an issue on campus, but are not aware what they can do personally to combat it,” a Peer Educator said. “Receiving a presentation is a simple, immediate, effective way to impact this serious issue that affects so many people.”
One VOICE Peer Educator concluded, “We have a job to look out for our Georgia Tech family—this knowledge [from the presentations] might actually save a survivor’s life and it’s important that survivors on campus to know that they are supported.”
You can do your part in joining the solution to sexual and relationship violence at Georgia Tech. We can all use our voices to change the culture to prevent sexual and relationship violence at Georgia Tech. Share with us how you pledge to use your VOICE. Visit http://healthpromotion.gatech.edu/voice/SAAM to learn more.
If students are interested in getting more involved, applications for the new cohort of VOICE Peer Educators will open in fall 2017. Additionally, the student organization, PAUSE (People Against Unwanted Sexual Experiences), works to raise awareness about sexual violence on campus, and is always welcoming new members. Finally, SGA has a Sexual Violence Advisory Board that will take new members in fall 2017.
]]>That’s why the Office of Health Promotion through support from the Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety (GOHS) are teaming up with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for a special Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk reminder to urge all football fans to call the right play on Super Bowl weekend by passing the keys to a sober driver before the drinking begins.
Drunk driving can be deadly. A driver is considered alcohol-impaired with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher, but even a small amount of alcohol can impair judgment and reaction times enough to make driving unsafe. According to NHTSA, in 2015 10,265 people—29 percent of all people killed in motor vehicle crashes in the United States that year—were killed in crashes that involved an impaired driver.
“Super Bowl Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk. If you want to be the MVP of Super Bowl LI, volunteer to be a designated driver to help your family and friends get home safely,” said Tammy Turner, Health Educator. “Drunk driving only leads to disaster and tragedy. It is never worth the risk. If you do plan to drink, remember to pass the keys to the sober driver before kickoff.”
Fans that have been drinking can secure a safe ride home by designating a sober driver, using public transportation, or calling a taxi or rideshare program. In addition, NHTSA’s SaferRide mobile app, available on the app store, is another resource to help football fans who have been drinking find a sober ride home–by identifying their location and helping to call a taxi or a friend to pick them up.
Designated sober drivers for Super Bowl weekend should refrain from drinking alcohol and enjoy the game with food and non-alcoholic drinks instead. They can tweet @NHTSAgov during Super Bowl LI to be featured on NHTSA’s national Wall of Fame. And follow #GamePlanGT to share strategies to reduce high-risk drinking.
Be a team player and help keep impaired drivers from getting behind the wheel. Designate your sober driver before the big game begins. And remember: Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk.
]]>If you get the flu, treatment with antiviral medications such as Tamiflu is available, but is most effective when started within 2 days of symptom onset. Schedule an appointment with Stamps Health Services early if you think you have the flu.
]]>Don't forget that over the break you are not alone. There are numerous resources still available to you in times of crisis.
The Office of Health Promotion is joining in a national effort to reach out to all Thanksgiving travelers with one important message: buckle up. Historically, Thanksgiving is the busiest travel time of the year, putting more people on the road, and unfortunately increasing the likelihood of crashes. Each year in our country, tens of thousands of passenger vehicle occupants die in motor vehicle crashes. In 2013, more than 300 people were killed in crashes on Thanksgiving weekend alone. In 2013, among passenger vehicle occupant fatalities where restraint use was known, the age groups 21 to 24 and 25 to 34 had the highest percentage (55%) of occupants killed who were unrestrained. Many of those deaths could have been prevented with one simple click of a seat belt. Additionally, impairment begins with the first drink so designate a sober driver if you choose to drink. Have a safe Thanksgiving weekend. Follow #GamePlanGT on social media to learn more about highway safety.
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For healthy people, smoke from wildfires that contains particles from burning trees and shrubs can irritate your eyes and respiratory system. However, smoke can worsen chronic health problems such as lung disease, asthma, allergies and increased risk of heart attacks and stroke. People with existing respiratory conditions, young children and elderly people are especially susceptible to health effects from this smoke.
“We especially urge parents and caregivers to pay careful attention to children and older adults and seek medical care if needed,” said Jean O’Connor, director of Chronic Disease Prevention at the Georgia Department of Public Health. “Older adults are more susceptible to smoke because of their increased risk of heart and lung problems. Children’s airways are still developing and they breathe more air per pound of body weight than adults.”
Smoke can irritate the eyes and airways, causing coughing, a scratchy throat, irritated sinuses, headaches, stinging eyes or a runny nose. People with heart disease might experience chest pain, palpitations, shortness of breath or fatigue. People with lung disease may not be able to breathe as deeply or as vigorously as usual, and they may experience symptoms such as coughing, phlegm, chest discomfort, wheezing and shortness of breath.
It’s important to limit your exposure to smoke and there are precautions you can take:
“We see the National Leadership Institute as an innovative opportunity for students and schools to take the lead in shifting the conversation around gender-based violence in the campus setting, but also in the broader dialogue around sexual and domestic violence in our society,” said Christine Jaworsky, Avon Foundation Program Director.
During the program, participants will learn and share best practices on how to prevent sexual violence and how to respond, using a trauma-informed lens, when an assault occurs. At the end of the two-day institute, each school will have a sexual assault prevention and response action plan, which they will be supported to implement over the course of a year. “There were over 70 schools who applied to be part of the program, so we know there is an immediate need and desire to find and implement solutions,” said Lonna Davis, program leader for Futures Without Violence, the organization leading training for the National Leadership Institute.
“We are proud that the Avon Foundation for Women has chosen to support our program again. With these funds, and through participation in the Leadership Institute, we will be able to evaluate and enhance the comprehensive efforts of VOICE, Georgia Tech’s long-standing sexual and relationship violence prevention and survivor support initiative. We are grateful for the amazing support from students, faculty, and staff across campus that helps drive our work to create a community of respect, communication, and equity. We believe that this opportunity will provide us with tools to help advance our work sustainably into the future,” said Lee Helmken, Health Educator in Health Promotion at Georgia Tech, and co-coordinator of VOICE.
The National Leadership Institute curriculum focuses on four major areas: 1) fundamentals of gender-based violence and trauma, 2) campus cultures and climate, 3) prevention and education, and 4) response, policy, and adjudication. Developed in consultation with national experts and institutional representatives from schools across the country, the curriculum provides colleges and universities the opportunity to learn best practices in the prevention, response and resolution of sexual violence, and the tools needed to implement action plans.
Below are the participants in Atlanta on November 30-December 1, 2016.
In the fall of 2014 Georgia Tech became a 100% tobacco and smoke-free campus. The purpose of this University System of Georgia (USG) policy was to create a health-supporting community for everyone, tobacco-users and non-users alike. The new policy also supports the right for all people on university system campuses to breathe smoke-free air. The simple reason for our policy is respect for each other and the environment. Georgia Tech is committed to providing tobacco cessation resources for students, faculty and staff.
Since the launch of this initiative in 2014 1,500 faculty, staff and students have participated in tobacco prevention methods. If you or someone you know is interested in these resources please visit, http://healthpromotion.gatech.edu/tobacco-cessation or stop by our table on November 17.
]]>Healthy Campus 2020 is the companion framework to Healthy People 2020, the federal government’s health promotion and disease prevention initiative for achieving better health across the United States. Healthy Campus 2020 provides a framework for improving the overall health status on campuses nationwide. Strategies extend beyond traditional interventions of education, diagnosis, treatment, and health care at clinical levels and involve embedding health into all aspects of campus culture, across the administration, operations and academics.
While no two Healthy Campus initiatives are exactly alike, most include a network of people working toward a common vision, priority health needs of your community, a plan with clearly defined strategies and action steps, community- and individual-focused interventions, and tracking progress. For more information about Healthy Campus 2020, please visit www.acha.org/healthycampus.
]]>This event is a part of the G.Y.P. (Get Yourself Protected) campaign being implemented by Health Promotion. The goal of G.Y.P. is to empower Georgia Tech students to make healthy decisions regarding protection if they choose to be sexually active. HIV testing is available to eligible students at Stamps Health Services at a low cost on an ongoing basis.
Many sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, can be asymptomatic (which means a person could have a STI and not know it). One in five (21%) of those people living with HIV in the United States are unaware of their infection(CDC, 2008). The only way to be sure someone don’t have HIV is to be tested.
Health Promotion is proud to partner with AIDS Healthcare Foundation to provide this service to the Georgia Tech community.
]]>The Initiative also included the creation of a Center for Community Health and Wellbeing by linking three departments – Stamps Health Services, the Campus Recreation Center and Health Promotion.
Phase One - Planning
Divided into phases, the wellness initiative began as most projects do with the Planning Phase and as each of the three Center departments currently continue to initiate and conduct programs and services, each is also in a Planning Phase as part of the Center.
The Planning Phase will continue through the selection of an Executive Director. The Executive Director will be tasked with responsibilities for strategically planning and implementing campus-wide health and wellbeing programs.
Executive Director Search
The search firm of The Spelman & Johnson Group has been engaged to conduct a nation-wide search for a person to lead the Center and conduct the Implementation Phase.
Plans are to have the position filled and the Executive Director in place no later than Fall Semester, Of course, the start date will depend on the successful candidate’s availability.
Victim-Survivor Advocate Search
The Center also houses two Victim-Survivor Advocates. Both advocates – Jennifer Gagen and Katy Berteau – are already on staff. For more information about the Victim-Survivor Advocate program, read Meet Jennifer Gagen, Victim Survivor Advocate!