Learning to take care of yourself away from home can be difficult, especially if it is your first time doing so.

Colorado Mesa University (CMU) has a number of resources to help you make your overall well-being and health a priority.

In the cafeteria:

It can be difficult to make healthy choices in the cafeteria when pizza, burgers and dessert products are readily available and in front of your face. While these food options are tasty, they don’t have all the nutrients your body needs. Instead of opting out of these options entirely, start small. Something as simple as getting a salad with your pizza or swapping soda for water is a good place to start.

Physical fitness:

Thirty minutes is the usual recommended amount of daily exercise for people. While walking to classes and climbing the massive staircases in Escalante count as exercise. If you are looking for more, CMU has lots of resources for you. The Hamilton Recreation Center is CMU’s gym. The gym has a lots of exercise equipment and trainers to help teach you how to use it. There are also several fitness classes and an Olympic sized swimming pool at the rec center.

For your medical needs:

CMU’s student wellness center is located off Orchard Avenue, across the street from the tennis courts. They provide easily accessible medical services for students. Physical examinations, illness diagnosis, immunizations and more are done at the wellness center. You can call to make an appointment, alternatively, walk-ins are welcome too.

Mental health is important too:

College life and feeling homesick can have a large impact on the mind and body. The student wellness center also offers behavioral services. There is a team of licensed therapists to receive counseling from. There are also peer coaches that are free to see if you need to talk to someone as well. If emotions or mental health ever feels unmanageable, don’t hesitate to ask for help.