The “freshman 15” is typically what one thinks of when he or she gets asked about the unhealthiest aspects of going off to college. While college may teach students time management as well as how to take care of ourselves on our own; there are many mental, social and physical side effects of leaving home.

Of course the gaining and losing of weight is a typical concern. The stress of leaving home and being on ones own can make it hard to eat healthy meals. With a full load of credit hours and the homework that entails, most students would prefer to grab a quick snack instead of taking time to eat a well-balanced meal. Exercise routines are also difficult to establish upon entering a college atmosphere. Students may find it hard to motivate themselves to go to the Kiewit Fitness Center or workout with new friends.

The stress of living a new life outside of one’s home is another characteristic of going to college. The most common reason that students cite for seeking counseling is anxiety, followed by depression and a feeling of identity loss.

“Students describe the causes and the experience of anxiety in various ways: stress, worry, test anxiety, shyness, worry about grades and perfectionism,” said senior director of Creighton Student Counseling Services, Michael Kelley Ph.D.

Excessive guilt, sadness, unhappiness with self, loneliness and feeling disconnected with one’s family are all reasons students visit the Counseling Center as well.

“Freshmen are usually on the front end of the identity work, feeling less certain about themselves, less competent, more anxious and depressed sometimes,” Kelley said.

As far as disease, there is an increased susceptibility to respiratory infections because of the new living accommodations and an increase in seasonal allergies, especially for students coming from other climates.

“Due largely to dorm living, being in close contact with multiple students tends to spread germs faster as well as the new stress of a new environment makes the immune system not work as well as it normally would,” said Christy Quillen, a Creighton health services staff member.

Karin Priefert D.O., the medical director of student health services, stresses that there are many adjustments that need to be taken when living away from home for the first time.

“Students must learn to navigate the health insurance system for the first time without their parents,” Priefert said.

While college life causes some students to experience stress and depression, it also permits for the exploration of interests, relationships, values and talents. There are a few tips to follow when trying to prevent the typical “side-effects” of college.

Priefert said frequent hand washing can help reduce transmission of infections. She also recommends that students get vaccinated and contact student health or counseling if you have a concern or question. She said the most important tip that she can offer any college student is to not drink alcohol to excess.

For more information on how to stay healthy, the Center for Health and Counseling sends out an e-mail called “Student Health 101” to students every month that offers tips for healthy living.