By KERRIGAN HUTTON
Tiger Media Network
September 23rd was the first day of fall in the Northern Hemisphere. Since then Kansas has seen a drop in average monthly temperatures from a high of 83 degrees in September, to a high of only 55 degrees so far in November. As colder weather cascades over western Kansas, so does the potential for getting sick. To combat these issues, the Fort Hays State University Health and Wellness Services offers resources not only for physical ailments but for counseling services as well.
Health and Wellness offers a full-service clinic, so while not as broad as a hospital, it still offers more services than a doctor’s office might. However, if there are certain services that they cannot treat, they can refer you to another provider. These services include pediatric care (patients under the age of 16), care for pregnant women, dental services, eye examinations for glasses, imaging services, medical management of chronic illness or disease, emergency care, or prescriptions for ADHD medications.
Traci Ditter, a nurse in the medical section of Health Wellness, commented on the increasing number of illnesses this time of year.
“We do see more students this time of year due to colds, coughs, sore throats, and the general spread of germs,” Ditter said.
For students who are feeling ill, Ditter advises them to not go to class or work, to drink lots of fluids, and to get plenty of rest. If the student needs to be seen by a medical professional, Ditter says they can stop by the front office or call their number at 785-628-4401. She also encourages students to wear a mask during this time.
Ditter said she isn’t concerned about the influx of illnesses so far, however she said now is a great time to get a flu shot.
“It is fully covered by most insurance, and you can get it by calling our office,” she said.
As for counseling services, Interim Director of Counseling Services, Jessica Albin spoke about the wide range of services available for students and faculty.
“Counselors at Health and Wellness Services provide free and confidential personal counseling services, case management services, drug and alcohol counseling, and accessibility services to FHSU students, faculty, and staff,” Albin said.
Albin said that, while some students are not affected by season changes, the cooler weather may cause some people to spend less time exercising, being outdoors, or socializing.
“Reduced sunlight may also cause a drop in serotonin, which could impact some people’s mood, and change melatonin levels, which helps people regulate sleep patterns,” she said.
This change in behavior due to the differing weather and lock of sunlight during the day is often referred to as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). According to the Mayo clinic, SAD is a type of depression that’s related to changes in seasons. Counselors at Health and Wellness use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to treat this condition, as it has been proven to treat SAD effectively.
“Counselors will also guide students in scheduling meaningful self-care activities that may boost their mood, teach them effective strategies for managing stress, and explore ways to build healthier behaviors into their lives,” Albin said.
An interesting way to view the colder weather in a warmer light is what Albin calls, hygge. Hygge is a Danish term meaning “living in ultimate coziness.” She says students should embrace the cold by maximizing the comfort of their surroundings.
“This might look like inviting friends over for a game or movie night, making a warm meal or drink to share with a loved one, or creating a cozy nook with blankets, pillows, and good books to read,” Albin said. “Rather than resenting the change of seasons, which is something we have absolutely no control over, make a decision to accept and enjoy the cold weather along with all of the cozy opportunities it can provide.”
To learn more about the Health and Wellness Services or to book an appointment, you can visit their page at www.fhsu.edu/health-and-wellness/.