Health and Wellness Center Director - Gloria Algeo, R.N.

It doesn't matter if you are a college freshman or a senior; there are always issues to face and problems to solve. There are many emotions that come into play as you are leaving the security and familiarity of home and entering college for the first time. It is exciting and frightening all at the same time. It is a time to gain independence, meet new people, and consider future goals. It is a time of intellectual and personal growth. The adjustment affects most freshmen. One of the most difficult adjustments may be saying goodbye to friends, family and familiar surroundings, and moving in with a total stranger. You may even experience loneliness, doubt, highs and lows. These are normal feelings and can or may be related to HOMESICKNESS. Here are a few suggestions to combat it:

· Acknowledge to yourself that the sad, uneasy feeling you are having may be related to being homesick.
· Find some to talk to about it-a roommate, a friend from home, a resident assistant, a family member, or your campus nurse or counselor.
· Call home (if you can) more often for a while and share the fact that you miss your family, your room, your old friends, and yes, maybe even your problematic younger sister/brother(s).
· Don't try to bury the feeling, don't drink more, party more or have sex just to try to make the feelings go away.
· Do get together with new people in your surroundings and enjoy fun things.
· Put a picture of your parents, house, sibling, or old friends up in your room to give you a more comfortable and safe feeling.
· If the doldrums immobilize you, consider getting more exercise by using the fitness room, participating in campus activities, and utilizing the student center.

Realize that new situations take time to get used to and that one longs for what is familiar. Give it some time.

The Health and Wellness Center has numerous programs and resources to aid in stress reduction, nutrition, fitness, alcohol issues, sexually transmitted diseases, eating disorders, and depression to name just a few. We can provide you with on and off campus resources as well. The center also provides basic first aid and treats minor illnesses and injuries. For more serious illnesses, referrals will be made to Family Practice Associates. Seeking medical attention or advice as soon as possible will expedite your recovery.

Just remember: Study hard, have fun, and most of all enjoy Schreiner University…new friends, independence, and personal growth.

The Health and Wellness Center is open from 9:00 to 4:00, Monday through Friday.