Healthy Buffs

Feeling sick? Here’s what to do

Kyra Raye Loch — Wed, 23 Sep 2026 23:01:01 +0000

Feeling sick? Here’s what to do Kyra Raye Loch Wed, 09/23/2026 - 17:01

Medical Services

Feeling sick at college can make it hard to know whether you should stay home, go to class or see a medical provider. If you have symptoms like a fever, cough, sore throat, headache or fatigue, start by resting, monitoring your symptoms and taking steps to avoid spreading illness to others.

Here’s what to do when you’re sick and where to find health care and illness supplies at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��.

Stay home and rest

Give your body time to rest and recover. Staying home when you’re sick can also help prevent spreading illness to friends, classmates and roommates.

While you recover:

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

Cough or sneeze into your elbow or a tissue.

Avoid sharing utensils, drinks and personal items.

Clean frequently touched surfaces, especially if you live with others.

Open windows, when possible, to increase airflow.

Consider wearing a well-fitting mask around others if you have symptoms of a respiratory illness.

Monitor and manage your symptoms

Many illnesses can cause similar symptoms, including fever, fatigue, sore throat, cough and headaches. Most mild illnesses can be managed at home with rest and basic care. Pay attention to how you’re feeling and whether your symptoms are improving or getting worse.

To manage mild symptoms:

Drink plenty of water, tea or electrolyte beverages.

Get extra sleep and rest.

Use cough drops, saltwater gargles or honey to soothe a sore throat.

Take over-the-counter medications as directed to help manage symptoms such as fever, aches, congestion and cough.

If you aren’t sure what may be causing your symptoms or what kind of care you need, testing or talking with a medical provider can help. COVID and flu test kits are available at the Apothecary Pharmacy on campus and at many local pharmacies.

Get illness care supplies

Need cold-care supplies or medication? You have several options on campus:

Pick up free illness care items at Figueroa Family Wellness Suite on the third floor of Wardenburg or the Village Center Wellness Suite.

Order a free Buff Box with cold-care supplies delivered to your residence hall (only available to on-campus residents).

Grab free supplies through vending machines located at Norlin Library and the Village Center with your Buff OneCard.

Visit the Apothecary Pharmacy for test kits, over-the-counter medications and prescriptions. Pharmacy staff can also help answer questions about medications.

Let your instructors or supervisors know

If you need to miss class or work because you’re sick, contact your instructors or supervisors as soon as you can. Let them know you won’t be able to attend and ask about options for assignments, attendance or other work you may miss.

If an illness or injury has a longer-term impact on your academics, Disability Services has information and resources for students with temporary medical conditions.

Know when to seek medical care

If your symptoms are getting worse, aren’t improving or you aren’t sure what kind of care you need, contact a medical provider for guidance.

You can call Wardenburg Health Center at 303-492-5101 or schedule a same-day callback with a nurse through your MyCUHealth patient portal. A nurse can help you understand your symptoms, discuss treatment options and decide whether you can continue caring for yourself at home or should seek medical care.

For after-hours care, use the TimelyCare app for free medical telehealth support. You can also visit a local urgent care facility if you need in-person care when Wardenburg is closed.

Get emergency care

Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room right away if you have:

Trouble breathing

Chest pain or pressure

Sudden confusion

Trouble staying awake

Blue or gray lips, face or skin

If you’re unsure whether your symptoms are serious, contact a medical provider for guidance.

Take steps to stay healthy

Once you’re feeling better, everyday habits can help you stay healthy throughout the semester. Learn how vaccines, handwashing, sleep and other strategies can help reduce your chances of getting sick and spreading illness to others.

Learn more: How to stay healthy during cold and flu season

Feeling sick? Knowing when to stay home, how to manage your symptoms and when to seek medical care can help you recover and protect others. Learn what to do when you’re sick, how to handle missed classes or work and where to find health care and illness supplies at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��.

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5 ways to manage stress during midterms

Kyra Raye Loch — Thu, 10 Sep 2026 18:47:01 +0000

5 ways to manage stress during midterms Kyra Raye Loch Thu, 09/10/2026 - 12:47

Health Promotion

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Midterms can bring exams, projects and deadlines all at once. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, a few small steps can help you manage stress and take care of yourself along the way.

Try these five tips to ease midterm stress and make this busy time feel more manageable.

Write down what’s stressing you out

When you have a lot on your mind, start by getting it out of your head and onto paper. Make a list of everything competing for your time, including exams, assignments, work, relationships and other responsibilities.

Seeing everything in one place can help you identify what needs your attention now, what can wait and where you may need some extra support.

You don’t need to solve everything at once. The goal is simply to get a clearer picture of what’s ahead.

Decide what needs your attention first

Once you know what you need to do, look at your upcoming deadlines and decide what to prioritize.

Start with a few questions:

What needs to get done today?

What can wait until tomorrow or later this week?

Which assignments or exams will require the most time?

Where might I need help?

Then, work backward from important deadlines and set aside time for the tasks you need to complete. A planner, calendar or to-do list can help you keep track of your priorities.

As you create your schedule, leave some extra time when you can and adjust your plan if something takes longer than expected.

Start with one small step

If a big assignment or exam feels overwhelming, break it into smaller tasks. Ask yourself: "What can I do in the next 5–15 minutes?"

For example, you could:

Review the instructions for an assignment.

Gather your notes or study materials.

Find one source for a paper.

Make a study guide for one chapter.

Email your professor or TA with a question.

Small steps can help you build momentum and figure out what comes next.

Take care of the basics

Studying is important, but so are the things that help your brain and body keep going.

One quick way to check in with yourself is the HALT method. Ask yourself if you’re feeling:

Hungry

Angry

Lonely

Tired

If the answer is yes, consider what you need before pushing through another study session. That might mean eating a meal or snack, drinking water, taking a break, connecting with someone or getting some sleep.

Sleep is especially important during busy academic periods because it supports focus, memory and problem-solving. Taking care of your basic needs can be part of preparing for an exam in addition to studying.

Ask for help when you need it

You don’t have to handle midterm stress by yourself. Think about what kind of support would be most helpful and who you can ask.

Have questions about an assignment? Talk with your professor or TA, or explore tutoring resources for academic support.

Feeling stressed or having trouble managing your time? Peer Wellness Coaching offers free peer-to-peer support with stress, time management, relationships, sleep and other challenges. You can learn from fellow students about what’s worked for them and come up with a plan of action that fits your needs.

Need mental health support? Counseling & Psychiatric Services (CAPS) offers counseling, therapy groups, workshops, Let’s Talk drop-ins and other mental health services.

Need encouragement or another perspective? Talk things through with a friend, roommate, academic advisor or someone else you trust.

Whatever midterm season looks like for you, focus on what you can do one step at a time and use the support available when you need it.

Midterms can bring exams, projects and deadlines all at once. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, a few small steps can help you manage stress and take care of yourself along the way. Try these five tips to ease midterm stress and make this busy time feel more manageable.

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6 signs of depression—and how to find support

Kyra Raye Loch — Thu, 10 Sep 2026 16:58:36 +0000

6 signs of depression—and how to find support Kyra Raye Loch Thu, 09/10/2026 - 10:58

Counseling & Psychiatric Services

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Depression can affect how you feel, think and manage everyday activities. Common signs of depression can include persistent sadness or irritability, loss of interest in activities, changes in sleep or appetite, low energy and difficulty concentrating.

Everyone has difficult days, and experiencing one of these signs doesn't necessarily mean you have depression. If symptoms persist, get worse or make it difficult to manage school, work, relationships or everyday activities, consider reaching out for support.

What are common signs of depression?

Depression can look different for everyone. Some people experience only a few symptoms, while others experience many. Here are six common signs to be aware of.

1. Persistent sadness, emptiness or irritability

Depression can cause ongoing feelings of sadness, emptiness, hopelessness or irritability. You may feel down more often than usual, become frustrated more easily or notice you are really not feeling like yourself.

2. Loss of interest or enjoyment

You may lose interest in things you usually enjoy, including hobbies, activities, school or spending time with other people. You might also find yourself pulling away from friends, family or your usual routines.

3. Changes in sleep

Depression can affect sleep in different ways. You may sleep much more than usual or have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep or waking up when you want to.

4. Changes in appetite

You may notice changes in your appetite or eating habits. Some people eat more than usual, while others lose their appetite. Depression can also cause unplanned changes in weight.

5. Low energy or difficulty with everyday tasks

Depression can cause fatigue and make everyday activities feel overwhelming. Getting out of bed, going to class, showering, cleaning or completing other routine tasks may feel impossible.

6. Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

Depression can make it harder to focus, remember things or make decisions. You may have trouble concentrating in class, completing assignments, keeping up with work or deciding what to do next.

When should you seek help for depression?

Thinking about talking to a therapist about suicide?

If you’re having thoughts of suicide yourself, you may be worried about what will happen if you tell a therapist. Will you have to go to the hospital? What will they ask? Who will know?

Learn what you can expect when you talk to a therapist about suicide, including how therapists assess your safety, what safety planning may look like and when hospitalization may be considered.

Having one or more of these experiences doesn't necessarily mean you have depression. However, consider talking with a mental health or health care professional if symptoms persist, become more intense or interfere with your ability to manage everyday life.

If you're concerned that you may be experiencing depression, you don't have to figure it out on your own. Talking with a mental health professional can help you understand what you're experiencing and what type of support may help.

Counseling & Psychiatric Services (CAPS) provides mental health support for ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� students, including same-day mental health screenings, brief individual therapy, medication management, group therapy, workshops and crisis support. You can also reach CAPS at 303-492-2277.

Feelings of hopelessness, thoughts about death or suicide, or urges to hurt yourself are signs that you should seek help right away. If you are thinking about suicide or feel unable to keep yourself safe, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. If there is an immediate life-threatening emergency, call 911.

How to help a friend who may be depressed

You don't need to know whether someone has depression to check in with them. If a roommate, friend, coworker or classmate doesn't seem like themselves or you're concerned about changes you've noticed, there are ways you can help.

Say what you've noticed and express concern: Let them know that you care and give them an opportunity to talk. You might say, “You haven't seemed like yourself lately, and I'm worried about you. Is everything okay?”

Listen without judgment: Give them space to share what they're experiencing. Try not to compare their situation to your own or immediately offer advice. You don't need to fix what's happening. Listening and helping them feel heard can be valuable.

Ask how you can help: Different people need different kinds of support. Ask what would be helpful rather than assuming you know what they need. You might offer to check in again, spend time together or help with an everyday task.

Help them connect with support: Let them know that mental health resources are available and offer to help them connect if they're comfortable. You could help them look at resources, make a call or accompany them to an appointment.

If you're worried about someone but aren't sure what to do, you can also call Counseling & Psychiatric Services at 303-492-2277 to consult with a clinician.

If you're worried someone may be thinking about suicide

If you're concerned that someone may be thinking about suicide, it's okay to ask them directly: “Are you thinking about suicide?” Asking someone about suicide does not increase their risk or put the idea in their head.

Listen without judgment and help them connect with support. If someone tells you they are going to kill themselves, don't leave them alone or promise to keep it a secret. Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Call 911 if there is an immediate life-threatening emergency.

Learn more: How to help a friend who may be thinking about suicide

��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� mental health resources

Need mental health support?
Counseling & Psychiatric Services (CAPS) provides mental health support for ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� students, including same-day mental health screenings, brief individual therapy, group therapy, workshops and crisis support.

Worried about another student?
Student Outreach, Advocacy & Support (SOAS) can help if you're concerned about a student and aren't sure what kind of support they need. Case managers can help students connect with campus and community resources.

Looking for an off-campus mental health provider?
Thriving Campus can help students find community mental health providers based on needs, insurance coverage and other preferences.

Want to learn how to support others?
Mental Health First Aid teaches participants how to recognize signs of mental health concerns and connect people with appropriate support.

Depression can look different for everyone. Learn about common signs of depression, when it may be time to seek help and mental health resources available to ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� students. You’ll also find practical ways to check in with a friend, offer support and help them connect with resources.

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Sports betting: How to set limits and reduce your risk

Emily Sampl — Wed, 09 Sep 2026 19:56:08 +0000

Sports betting: How to set limits and reduce your risk Emily Sampl Wed, 09/09/2026 - 13:56

Health Promotion

Sports betting and prediction markets can make following a game or event feel even more exciting. They can also make it easy to spend more time or money than you planned.

If you choose to bet or put money on future outcomes, knowing your own limits can help you make choices that work for you. Here are ways to plan ahead, check in with your habits, notice when things may be getting off track and know where to turn for support.

What about prediction markets?

Prediction markets allow you to put money on what you think will happen in the future. Depending on the platform, this might include the outcome of a sporting event, election, economic announcement or another event.

These platforms may use terms such as “trading,” “contracts” or “markets,” but you are still putting money at risk based on an uncertain outcome. Like other forms of gambling, this can become difficult to control for some people.

Prediction markets and sports betting are regulated differently, so rules and protections can vary. If you choose to participate, consider the same strategies you would use with other forms of betting: set limits for your time and money, avoid chasing losses and take a break if it starts affecting your finances, relationships, academics or well-being.

Check in with your gambling habits

Changes in how you gamble can be an early sign that it’s time to reassess. Think about your habits and ask yourself:

Am I betting more often or spending more money than I used to?

Do I spend a lot of time thinking about betting or checking odds?

Have I bet more money or for longer than I planned?

Do I keep betting to try to win back money I’ve lost?

Have I borrowed money or used money meant for other expenses?

Do I hide how much I gamble from other people?

Is gambling affecting my schoolwork, relationships, sleep, finances or mental health?

If gambling is starting to feel stressful, less fun or taking over, consider taking a break. You can also check in on your gambling habits and explore additional resources.

Know your plan before you bet

It’s easier to stick with choices you make ahead of time. Before you bet, think about what limits work for you.

Set a spending limit. Decide how much you’re comfortable spending and can afford to lose. Keep money for essentials like rent, food and tuition separate from money you choose to spend on gambling.

Set a time limit. Decide how much time you want to spend betting or checking bets. Many betting apps have tools that can help you set time and spending limits.

Don’t chase losses. Trying to quickly win back money you’ve lost can lead to spending more than you intended.

Understand the bet. Know the rules and odds before placing a bet, and remember that knowing a team or sport well doesn’t guarantee an outcome.

Avoid betting when your judgment may be affected. Stress, frustration, alcohol and other substances can make it harder to stick to the limits you set.

Know the rules in Colorado

In Colorado, you must be 21 or older to place a sports bet. Colorado also has laws that provide additional protections for people who use sports-betting apps, including limits on some deposits and advertising practices and a ban on using credit cards to make sports-betting deposits.

Know when to take a break

Gambling can be one activity you choose to do without becoming the focus of your time, attention or budget.

Consider taking a break if you find yourself constantly checking betting apps, thinking about your next bet or feeling stressed about wins and losses.

You can also make it harder to bet impulsively:

Delete betting apps if they’re becoming a distraction.

Remove saved payment information from betting accounts.

Use blocking tools like BetBlocker or Gamban to limit access to gambling sites.

Make time for activities that don't involve betting.

Learn more about responsible gambling, including ways to reduce your risk and recognize warning signs.

Talk honestly about sports betting

Wins tend to get more attention than losses. Talking about both can help you and your friends keep sports betting in perspective.

Consider checking in with each other:

Is betting making the game more fun or more stressful?

Are you spending more than you planned?

How do you feel after losing a bet?

Is betting starting to feel harder to control?

If you’re concerned about a friend, you don’t need to diagnose their gambling habits. Let them know what you’ve noticed, ask how they’re doing and encourage them to connect with support if they need it.

Get support for gambling concerns

It may be time to reach out if gambling is causing problems with your finances, academics, relationships or well-being, or if you’re having trouble cutting back or stopping.

Collegiate Recovery Community (CUCRC)
CUCRC provides community and support for students in recovery or seeking recovery from a range of behaviors, including gambling.

Counseling & Psychiatric Services (CAPS)
CAPS can help students explore concerns related to gambling and connect with additional support and resources.

National Problem Gambling Helpline
Get confidential support and connections to gambling resources by phone, text or chat.

Gamtalk
Gamtalk offers free, anonymous peer support for people experiencing problems related to gambling.

Gambling is prohibited in ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� residence halls. NCAA rules prohibit athletics staff and student-athletes from participating in sports wagering activities on NCAA-sponsored sports at any level.

Sports betting and prediction markets can be exciting, but it’s easy to spend more time or money than you planned. If you choose to bet, learn how to set limits, check in with your habits, know when to take a break and find support if you need it.

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Your guide to STI prevention, testing and treatment

Zoe Bryant — Fri, 04 Sep 2026 21:39:43 +0000

Your guide to STI prevention, testing and treatment Zoe Bryant Fri, 09/04/2026 - 15:39

Medical Services

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are common, and many don't cause noticeable symptoms. Whether you're in a relationship, hooking up or not currently sexually active, knowing how STIs spread, how to lower your risk and when to get tested can help you take care of your sexual health.

Here are some things to know about STI prevention, testing and treatment.

What are STIs?

STIs are infections that can spread from one person to another through sexual contact, including oral, vaginal or anal sex and genital skin-to-skin contact. They can be caused by bacteria, viruses or parasites.

STIs are common. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that about 1 in 5 people in the U.S. has an STI.

Common STIs include:

Human papillomavirus (HPV)

Chlamydia

Gonorrhea

Syphilis

Herpes simplex virus (HSV)

Anyone who is sexually active can get an STI. Having an STI is common and isn't a reflection of someone's identity, relationships or number of sexual partners.

Can you have an STI without symptoms?

Yes. Many STIs don't cause noticeable symptoms, so you may not know that you or a partner has one without testing. You also can't tell whether someone has an STI by looking at them.

When symptoms do occur, they can vary depending on the infection. If you notice symptoms like unusual genital discharge, bleeding, sores, itching, burning or pain, contact a health care provider.

How can you lower your risk of getting an STI?

There are several ways to reduce your risk and take care of your sexual health.

Use condoms and other barriers

Condoms and dental dams can reduce the risk of many STIs when used correctly and consistently during oral, vaginal or anal sex. However, they don't completely eliminate the risk of STIs, including those that can spread through skin-to-skin contact.

Remember that birth control methods that prevent pregnancy don't necessarily protect against STIs.

If you use sex toys, follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning them before sharing them with another person. You can also use condoms with sex toys and change the condom before sharing.

One condom is enough. Using two condoms at once can create friction and make them more likely to break.

Get vaccinated

Vaccines can protect against some infections that can spread through sexual contact, including:

Human papillomavirus (HPV): HPV is a common STI. Some types can cause genital warts, while others can lead to certain cancers.

Hepatitis B (HBV): Hepatitis B is a liver infection that can cause short-term illness or long-term health problems.

Vaccines for HPV and hepatitis B are available to students through Medical Services.

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP): PrEP medications are medicines that you can take to reduce your risk of getting HIV.

Talk with your partners about sexual health

Talking about sexual health can help you and your partners make informed decisions together. Consider discussing STI testing, sexual history, protection and what safer-sex practices you're comfortable using.

When should you get tested for STIs?

Because STIs often don't cause symptoms, testing can be an important part of taking care of your sexual health. You can get tested for STIs even if you don’t have symptoms.

Which STI tests you need and how often you should get tested can depend on factors such as your age, sexual history, sexual practices and symptoms. A health care provider can help you decide which tests are right for you.

If you think you may have been exposed to an STI, contact a health care provider. Some infections may not show up on a test immediately, so a provider can help you determine when to test and whether you may need follow-up testing. Medical Services provides STI testing by appointment and through drop-in lab services.

If you're experiencing symptoms, contact a health care provider rather than waiting for routine testing.

What happens if you test positive for an STI?

If you test positive, a health care provider can talk with you about treatment and next steps. Many STIs can be cured with medication, while others can be treated or managed.

Your provider can also answer questions about when it's okay to have sex again and whether your sexual partners should get tested or treated.

STI testing and sexual health resources at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��

��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� students have access to STI testing, sexual and reproductive health care and free safer-sex supplies.

Get STI testing

Medical Services provides STI testing by appointment and through drop-in lab services. Testing is available for HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis as well as other STI tests based on symptoms or history

Pick up free safer-sex supplies

Get free condoms, dental dams, lube and other safer-sex supplies at various locations around campus:

Figueroa Family Wellness Suite: Wardenburg Health Center room 331

Village Center Wellness Suite: Village Center room 190

Sexual and Reproductive Health: Wardenburg first-floor check-in area

Students living on campus can also order a Buff Box with free safer-sex supplies delivered to their residence hall in discreet packaging.

Get sexual and reproductive health care

Sexual and Reproductive Health at Medical Services provides STI testing, PrEP, birth control, long-acting reversible contraception, annual exams, emergency contraception, pregnancy testing and other services.

Get free HIV testing

The Boulder County AIDS Project (BCAP) offers free and confidential HIV testing at community locations in Boulder.

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Find your people: How to make friends at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��

Kyra Raye Loch — Thu, 03 Sep 2026 18:25:22 +0000

Find your people: How to make friends at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� Kyra Raye Loch Thu, 09/03/2026 - 12:25

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Making friends in college can take longer than you expect. Even if it seems like everyone around you has already found their group, many students are still figuring out where they fit in and looking for ways to meet new people.

Friendships also don't have to happen all at once. A classmate you talk to before class, someone you regularly see at the gym or a person you meet through a student organization could become a friend over time. If you're looking to make friends and feel more connected at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��, here are a few things to try.

Give friendships time to grow

It can be easy to put pressure on yourself to find a close group of friends right away. In reality, friendships often develop through small, repeated interactions over time.

It can also help to remember that different friends may play different roles in your life. You might have someone you study with, a friend who shares your hobbies or a person you can talk to when you're having a hard day. You don't need to find one person or group that meets all your social needs.

Focus on getting to know people rather than trying to create an instant friendship. A quick conversation or shared activity can be a good place to start.

Start with small conversations

Small talk can make it easier to get to know someone without putting too much pressure on the interaction. Look for opportunities that are already part of your day, like talking with someone before class, in your residence hall, at work or while waiting in line.

Not sure what to say? Try asking about something you already have in common, such as:

“Have you taken a class with this professor before?”

“What are you doing this weekend?”

“How did you get involved with this group?”

“Have you found any good places to eat around campus?”

You don't need to have a long or memorable conversation every time. Saying hello when you see someone again can help you gradually become more comfortable with each other.

Connect through shared interests

Making friends can feel easier when friendship isn't the only goal. Doing something you already enjoy, or trying something you've been curious about, gives you something to focus on and a natural way to connect with people who share your interests.

Think about activities that sound good to you. You could join a student organization, volunteer, play an intramural sport, take a group fitness class or attend events related to something you enjoy.

Once you find something you like, try going regularly. Seeing the same people over time can make it easier to start conversations, become a familiar face and let friendships develop naturally.

Take the next step

Sometimes meeting people isn't the hardest part—it's figuring out how to turn an acquaintance into a friend.

If you enjoy talking with someone, try creating another opportunity to spend time together. Keep it simple and connected to something you're already doing. For example, you could ask if they want to:

Grab coffee or lunch after class.

Study together before an exam.

Go to a campus event.

Check out a student organization or activity together.

Exchange contact information or connect on social media.

They may say yes, or they may already have plans. A “no” doesn't necessarily mean they aren't interested in being friends. Schedules can be busy, so you can always try again another time or reach out to someone else.

Find what works for you

There's no single right way to make friends. Large events may work well for some people, while others feel more comfortable in small groups, one-on-one conversations or structured activities.

It's also normal to feel nervous or awkward when you're meeting someone new. Feeling uncomfortable doesn't mean you're doing something wrong or that the interaction is going badly. If you're nervous, focus on being present, asking a question or simply saying hello.

You can also think about times you've made friends in the past. Where did you meet? What helped you get to know each other? Consider whether you could try something similar now.

Most importantly, give yourself opportunities to connect without expecting every interaction to become a friendship. Finding people you enjoy spending time with can take some trial and error.

Find support

If you're having a hard time meeting people, feeling isolated or struggling to adjust to campus life, you don't have to figure everything out on your own. ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� has resources that can help.

Peer Wellness Coaching

Meet one-on-one with a trained student coach through Health Promotion. Peer wellness coaches can help you navigate campus life, brainstorm ways to meet people and connect you with resources that fit your interests and needs.

Counseling & Psychiatric Services (CAPS)

CAPS offers mental health and support services for students, including counseling, therapy groups, workshops and Let's Talk drop-in consultations.

If you're looking to make friends and feel more connected at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��, here are a few things to try.

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How to stay healthy during cold and flu season

Kyra Raye Loch — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 22:05:58 +0000

How to stay healthy during cold and flu season Kyra Raye Loch Mon, 08/31/2026 - 16:05

Medical Services

As classes, events and campus activities pick up, so can colds, flu and other respiratory illnesses. Living with roommates, sitting in full classrooms and spending time in shared spaces can make it easier for illnesses to spread.

The good news? A few simple habits can help lower your chances of getting sick or passing an illness to someone else. Start with these cold and flu season tips.

Get your flu shot

One of the best ways to protect yourself from the flu is to get your annual flu shot. The flu vaccine can lower your risk of getting the flu and may reduce the severity of illness if you do get sick.

��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� students can get a free flu shot starting Sept. 14 at Wardenburg, and starting Sept. 17 at various locations on campus. Flu shots are available by appointment only. Find a flu shot clinic on campus and schedule your appointment through the student health portal.

Getting vaccinated early in the season can help protect you before flu activity increases—and may mean fewer sick days getting in the way of classes, work, plans and time with friends.

Help stop germs from spreading

Respiratory illnesses can spread quickly in classrooms, residence halls, apartments and other shared spaces. Practicing a few everyday hygiene habits can help protect you and the people around you.

Wash your hands regularly. Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating and after using the restroom, coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose. If soap and water aren't available, use hand sanitizer.

Cover coughs and sneezes. Cough or sneeze into a tissue or your elbow instead of your hands, and wash or sanitize your hands afterward.

Don't share personal items. Avoid sharing drinks, utensils, lip balm and other items that come into contact with your mouth or face.

Clean frequently touched surfaces. Regularly clean shared surfaces in your room or apartment, especially when someone is sick.

Consider wearing a mask. A well-fitting mask can provide additional protection against respiratory illnesses, especially in crowded indoor spaces. If you’re sick or recovering and need to be around others, wearing a well-fitting mask can also help reduce the chance of spreading illness.

Give people space when you're sick. If you're not feeling well, skip the study group, party or packed bus when you can. Taking time to recover can also help keep your friends, roommates and classmates from getting sick.

Know what to do if you get sick

Even when you take precautions, getting sick happens. If you're feeling under the weather, give yourself time to rest and take steps to avoid spreading illness to others.

Stay home and away from others when you're sick when possible, and take extra precautions if you need to be around other people. Pay attention to your symptoms and seek medical care when you need it.

It's also a good idea to know how your health insurance works before you need care. Check which health care providers, urgent care centers and other facilities are covered by your plan so you know where to go and can avoid unexpected costs.

Learn more about what to do if you get sick

Take care of the basics

Vaccination and habits that reduce the spread of germs are especially important during cold and flu season. Taking care of your overall health can also help you feel your best and support your recovery if you do get sick.

Prioritize sleep. College schedules can get hectic, but aim for seven to nine hours of sleep each night when you can. Keeping a relatively consistent sleep and wake time can also help you get the rest you need.

Eat regularly and stay hydrated. Regular meals and snacks can help keep your energy up throughout busy days. Carry a refillable water bottle so it's easy to stay hydrated between classes and activities.

Keep moving. Walk across campus, hit The Rec or find another activity you enjoy. Regular movement can support your overall health and well-being.

Make time to recharge. Stress can make it harder to keep up with routines like sleeping, eating and taking care of yourself. Build in time to relax, connect with friends and take breaks when you need them.

Make a plan for cold and flu season

You don't have to overhaul your routine to help protect yourself this season. Get your flu shot, wash your hands, cover coughs and sneezes and stay away from others when you're sick.

A few small actions can help you miss fewer classes and plans—and help keep your roommates, friends and fellow Buffs healthy, too.

As the weather cools and campus life gets busy, it’s important to protect yourself from seasonal illnesses. Here are some tips to stay healthy this semester.

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Feeling homesick in college? 4 ways to feel more settled

Kyra Raye Loch — Thu, 27 Aug 2026 19:52:31 +0000

Feeling homesick in college? 4 ways to feel more settled Kyra Raye Loch Thu, 08/27/2026 - 13:52

Listen to this article

A few weeks into the semester, college might be starting to feel different than it did during move-in. Classes are picking up, the excitement of the first few weeks may be wearing off and you might be missing home—or wondering why you don't feel settled yet.

Homesickness in college is common, especially for first-year students adjusting to a new place, new people and new routines. It doesn't always feel like simply missing home, either. You might feel lonely or disconnected, compare college to home or wonder whether everyone else has already found their people.

Adjustment takes time. You don't have to love everything about college right away or have your closest friendships figured out a few weeks into the semester. Here are four things that can help.

1. Bring some familiarity into your week

When so much around you is new, familiar activities, routines and traditions can help you feel more grounded. Think about a few things that bring you comfort or help you feel connected to the people, places or communities that matter to you, and look for ways to make them part of your life at CU.

Try this:

Keep up a favorite routine or tradition. Find a favorite meal, listen to a familiar playlist, watch a show you enjoy or continue a tradition that's meaningful to you.

Give yourself something to look forward to. Maybe it's a weekly movie night, workout, coffee run or Sunday call home.

Think about what's helped before. Remember other times you've entered a new school, team, job or community and what helped you adjust.

It's okay to miss people, places or routines that matter to you. Staying connected to those parts of your life and creating new experiences at CU can happen at the same time.

2. Stay connected to home, and make room for life here

Calling, texting or video chatting with people you care about can help you feel supported. At the same time, notice whether staying connected is helping you feel grounded or making it harder to be present at CU.

The goal isn't to leave old relationships behind. It's to stay connected while giving new relationships and routines room to grow.

Try this:

Create a rhythm for staying in touch. A regular call or group chat can help you stay connected without feeling like you need to check in constantly.

Notice how social media makes you feel. If seeing friends together back home leaves you feeling worse, consider taking a break or limiting how often you check.

Spend some downtime on campus. Try a weekend event, grab a meal with someone on your floor or explore somewhere you haven't been yet.

There's room for both the relationships you already have and the life you're building at CU.

3. Create a routine that works for you

When so much around you is new, having a few predictable parts of your week can help you feel more settled. You don't need a perfect schedule. Finding your favorite places, creating a few regular routines and making time for things you enjoy can help campus start to feel more familiar.

Try this:

Find your spots. Pick a favorite place to study, eat lunch, work out or relax between classes.

Create a few weekly routines. Go to the same fitness class, study at the library on Tuesday nights or grab coffee after your Thursday class.

Give yourself something to look forward to. Put a club meeting, intramural game, campus event, hike or other activity you enjoy on your calendar.

Over time, you may notice that people start recognizing you, you know where you like to sit or you see the same faces on your way to class. Those small moments of familiarity are part of how a new place starts becoming your place.

4. Start small with getting to know people

A few weeks into the semester, it can look like everyone has already made their best friends. They haven't.

Making friends in college often takes longer than social media, orientation photos or a busy dining center make it seem. You also don't need to find your best friend right away to feel more connected.

Start smaller. A familiar face, someone to sit next to in class or a person who says hi when they see you can be the beginning of belonging.

Try this:

Be a regular. Pick one club, organization, study group or activity that interests you and keep showing up. Seeing the same people regularly makes it easier to connect.

Use the connections already around you. Talk with someone on your floor, sit near the same people in class or ask a classmate if they want to study together.

Make a small invitation. Ask someone to grab food, walk to class or check out an event. It doesn't need to be a big plan.

Not every conversation will turn into a friendship, and that's okay. You're creating more opportunities for connection—and plenty of other students are hoping someone else will make the first move, too.

What if you're still homesick?

There isn't a deadline for feeling settled at college. Homesickness can come and go, especially during stressful periods, around holidays or after spending time away from campus.

Instead of trying to change everything at once, pick one or two things to try this week. Attend that club meeting again, invite someone to lunch or find a new study spot. Small, repeated actions can add up.

If homesickness or loneliness is getting worse, isn't letting up or is making it difficult to go to class, sleep, eat, concentrate or manage your day-to-day life, you don't have to work through it alone.

Find support at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��

Peer Wellness Coaching
Meet with a trained student to talk through things like making friends, adjusting to college, creating routines, setting goals and getting more connected on campus.

Campus Life
Explore events, student organizations, programs and other ways to get involved, meet fellow Buffs and find activities that feel like you.

Counseling & Psychiatric Services (CAPS)
CAPS provides confidential mental health and psychiatric services for ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� students. You can reach out for support with loneliness, adjusting to college, anxiety, depression, relationships, academics and other concerns.

Homesickness in college is common, especially for first-year students adjusting to a new place, new people and new routines. Here are four things that can help.

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How to help a friend who may be thinking about suicide

Kyra Raye Loch — Tue, 25 Aug 2026 17:25:41 +0000

How to help a friend who may be thinking about suicide Kyra Raye Loch Tue, 08/25/2026 - 11:25

It can be hard to know what to say or do when you’re worried about a friend, roommate, classmate or another student. Here are some ways you can help your fellow Buffs. You don’t need to know for sure that someone is thinking about suicide before you check in—and you don’t have to handle the situation on your own.

For 24/7 crisis support, call Counseling & Psychiatric Services (CAPS) at 303-492-2277 or call or text 988.

If you think someone may be in immediate danger or at risk of harming themselves right now, call 911.

Know some of the warning signs of suicide

There isn’t one sign that tells you for sure that someone is thinking about suicide. If someone starts acting differently, says something that concerns you or seems to be having an especially difficult time, it’s okay to check in.

Warning signs may include:

Talking about wanting to die or suicide

Feeling hopeless, trapped or like there’s no reason to live

Talking about being a burden to others

Withdrawing from friends or activities

Giving away important belongings or saying goodbye

Taking unusual or dangerous risks

Experiencing extreme mood changes

Significant changes in sleep or eating

Using alcohol or other substances more often

You don’t need to use this list as a checklist. If something feels off—maybe your roommate hasn’t left their room much, a friend has stopped showing up to class or someone says something that worries you—trust your concern and reach out.

Start the conversation

Find a private time to talk and start with what you’ve noticed.

You could say:

“Hey, you haven’t seemed like yourself lately. How are you doing?”

“I’ve noticed you’ve been missing class and haven’t been around much. I’m worried about you.”

“You seemed really overwhelmed yesterday. Want to talk about what’s going on?”

You don’t need the perfect opening. Showing someone that you’ve noticed a change and care about them is a good place to start.

Ask directly about suicide

If you’re wondering whether someone may be thinking about suicide, ask them directly:

“I’m asking because I care about you. Are you thinking about suicide?”

Asking about suicide does not increase suicidal thoughts or behavior. Being direct gives someone an opportunity to tell you what they’re experiencing.

If they say no, you can still listen and offer support. If they say yes, take them seriously and help them connect with support.

If they say they’re thinking about suicide

Hearing “yes” can feel scary. You don’t need to figure everything out yourself. Focus on being present and getting support.

Listen without judgment. Give them space to talk rather than debating, lecturing or trying to solve everything. You might say, “I’m really glad you told me,” or, “Let’s figure out who we can reach out to together.”

Don’t promise to keep it secret. If you’re worried about their safety, getting help is more important than keeping the conversation between the two of you.

Connect them with support. Offer to sit with them while they call CAPS or 988. You can also call CAPS yourself if you’re concerned about another student and need guidance.

If you believe they may harm themselves right now, call 911. If someone tells you they are going to kill themselves, don’t leave them alone. Get professional or emergency support rather than trying to manage the situation yourself.

What if you can’t reach them?

Maybe a friend sent you a concerning text and stopped responding, or you have another reason to be seriously worried about their safety.

A welfare check may be an option when you can’t contact someone or confirm that they’re safe.

On campus: CUPD at 303-492-6666

Off campus in Boulder: Boulder Police at 303-441-3333

Outside Boulder: Contact the local emergency or law enforcement agency where the person is located.

Not everyone feels safer when police are involved, and a welfare check may not be the right response in every situation. If there isn’t an immediate life-threatening emergency and you’re unsure what to do, call CAPS at 303-492-2277 for guidance.

Check in again

Support doesn’t have to end after the conversation. Send a text the next day, grab food together, walk to class or simply ask how they’re doing.

At the same time, you aren’t responsible for someone else’s mental health or for keeping them safe by yourself. Bring professional resources and other trusted people into their support system.

Take care of yourself, too

Supporting a friend who is struggling can be a lot to hold, especially if you're worried about their safety. You can ask for help for yourself, too.

CAPS can provide guidance if you're concerned about another student. Talking with someone you trust, getting support or taking time to decompress after a difficult conversation can also help.

Where to get help at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��

If someone needs urgent or same-day mental health support

Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS): Call 303-492-2277 for 24/7 support. CAPS provides crisis and urgent mental health support and can also help if you're concerned about another student.

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 for 24/7 crisis support.

Life-threatening emergency: Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.

If a student needs help navigating a difficult situation

Student Outreach, Advocacy & Support (SOAS): SOAS provides non-clinical case management and can help students navigate challenging circumstances and connect with campus and community resources. SOAS is not an emergency or crisis service.

If you want to learn how to support others

Ask the Question: This one-hour training helps participants feel more prepared to recognize warning signs for suicide, respond effectively, and refer to campus resources.

Mental Health First Aid: This nationally recognized, full-day training can help students learn to recognize and respond to mental health and substance use concerns and connect people with appropriate support.

Remember—you don’t need to diagnose someone, determine exactly how much danger they’re in or find the perfect words. Being the person who notices something is wrong and helps a fellow Buff connect with support can make a meaningful difference.

Thinking about talking to a therapist about suicide?

If you’re having thoughts of suicide yourself, you may be worried about what will happen if you tell a therapist. Will you have to go to the hospital? What will they ask? Who will know?

Learn what you can expect when you talk to a therapist about suicide, including how therapists assess your safety, what safety planning may look like and when hospitalization may be considered.

Starting a conversation about suicide, even briefly, can make a meaningful difference. It can help someone feel seen, heard and supported enough to reach out for help. Here are some tips you can use if you’re concerned that a friend, roommate or classmate may be struggling or thinking about suicide.

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Hazing: 5 things every student should know

Kyra Raye Loch — Mon, 24 Aug 2026 21:37:34 +0000

Hazing: 5 things every student should know Kyra Raye Loch Mon, 08/24/2026 - 15:37

Student Conduct & Conflict Resolution

College is full of opportunities to meet people, try new things and find communities where you feel connected, supported and able to pursue your passions. Joining a group can be a meaningful part of your college experience, and belonging should never require you to put your health, safety or well-being at risk.

Hazing can happen in any group, and it isn’t always obvious or dramatic. Knowing what hazing looks like can help you recognize concerning behavior, support others and speak up before a situation escalates.

Here are five things every student should know about hazing.

1. Hazing can happen in any group

Hazing can happen in any group where people are joining, participating or trying to gain status.

This can include:

Fraternities and sororities

Student organizations and clubs

Sport clubs and athletic teams

Student employment teams

Academic programs, cohorts, labs and research groups

Performance groups

Informal friend groups and student communities

Hazing is any activity expected of someone joining or participating in a group that humiliates, degrades, abuses or endangers them, regardless of whether they are willing to participate.

Some hazing behaviors may be described as traditions, bonding experiences, team-building activities or simply “the way things have always been done.” How something is portrayed doesn’t determine whether it is hazing—what matters is the effect it has on someone.

Learn more about hazing prevention and reporting.

2. Hazing isn’t always obvious

Some forms of hazing are more visible, such as physical violence or forcing someone to consume alcohol. Others can be harder to identify.

Hazing isn’t always a single event or dramatic activity. It can involve repeated expectations, pressure or treatment that may seem minor at first but can become harmful over time.

Hazing can include behaviors that intimidate, humiliate, isolate, exhaust or pressure someone. Examples may include:

Sleep deprivation or excessive physical demands

Forced or pressured alcohol or substance use

Being denied food, water or other basic needs

Demeaning or targeted name-calling

Public humiliation or embarrassing performances, including wearing costumes

Requiring new members to perform personal errands or services for other members

Forced isolation or exclusion

Threats, intimidation or interrogation

Being required to wear embarrassing clothing

Sexual harassment, unwanted touching or sexual acts

Dangerous activities or exposure to harsh conditions

Secrecy or pressure to hide what happens within the group

Sometimes individual activities may seem minor on their own. However, patterns of pressure, unequal treatment, secrecy or escalating expectations can be signs that something is wrong.

If you aren’t sure whether an activity is hazing, consider:

Is someone expected to do this to join, remain in or gain status within the group?

Could the activity humiliate, degrade, abuse or endanger someone?

Is there pressure to participate or stay quiet?

What happens if someone says no or decides not to participate?

Would the group be comfortable describing the activity openly to others?

You don’t have to wait until someone gets hurt to take a concern seriously.

3. Willingness to participate doesn’t make hazing OK

People may participate in hazing for many reasons. They may want to belong, worry about disappointing friends or feel like they have to earn their place.

Students may also see hazing as a rite of passage or a way to prove their commitment to the group. They may believe going through the same experience as previous members will help them earn respect or strengthen their connection to the group.

That doesn’t make a harmful activity OK.

Students deserve to build friendships, traditions and a sense of belonging without having to earn acceptance through humiliation, fear, coercion or harm.

If you’re a student leader, team member or someone helping plan group activities, consider what you want the experience to accomplish. There are plenty of ways to build trust, celebrate traditions and welcome new members without putting someone at risk.

4. Knowing the signs can help you support someone

Hazing can affect a person’s physical and emotional well-being, academics, relationships and daily life.

Someone experiencing hazing may:

Suddenly spend most of their time on group activities

Miss class, work or other commitments

Seem unusually tired or experience changes in their sleep

Become more anxious, withdrawn or secretive

Express fear about what will happen if they don’t participate

Pull away from friends or activities they usually enjoy

Describe group traditions that sound humiliating, coercive, unsafe or harmful

Have unexplained injuries or changes in their physical well-being

One sign doesn’t necessarily mean someone is experiencing hazing. Instead, pay attention to changes and trust yourself if something seems off.

If you’re concerned about a friend, you can start with a simple conversation. For example, you might say, “You’ve been really busy with your group lately. How are things going?”

Share what you’ve noticed without judgment and give them space to talk. Listen, ask what they need and help them explore their options. They may want support, information or help reporting what is happening.

Keep checking in, even if they aren’t ready to take action right away.

Learn more about the signs of hazing.

5. You can report hazing—even if you’re not sure

You don’t have to investigate a situation or decide whether it officially qualifies as hazing before reaching out for support or reporting a concern.

If something feels unsafe, coercive, humiliating or concerning, you can share what you know with the university. Reporting concerns early can help prevent situations from escalating and connect students and organizations with support.

When you report a concern, Student Conduct & Conflict Resolution (SCCR) reviews the information and determines appropriate next steps, which may include assessing risk, following up with those involved, providing resources and addressing potential policy violations.

You can also report a concern about something you’ve experienced, witnessed or learned about from someone else.

Learn how to report hazing or submit an anonymous report through SCCR.

Speaking up can feel difficult, especially when friends, teammates, coworkers or other people you care about are involved. But looking out for each other is a skill that can be improved to help ensure that everyone can find community and belong without harm.

Find support and report concerns

You don’t have to handle a concern about hazing on your own. SCCR is the place to report suspected hazing, while other campus resources can help you find support, understand your options or help someone else.

Report hazing

Student Conduct & Conflict Resolution (SCCR)
If you have experienced, witnessed or learned about potential hazing, report your concern to SCCR. You don’t need to be certain that something qualifies as hazing before making a report. SCCR reviews reports and determines appropriate next steps.

Find support

Student Outreach, Advocacy & Support (SOAS)
SOAS provides individualized support for students navigating challenging situations. Case managers can help you identify your needs and connect with campus and community resources.

Office of Victim Assistance (OVA)
OVA provides free and confidential information, consultation, support, advocacy and short-term, trauma-focused counseling for students, graduate students, faculty and staff who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic, disturbing or disruptive event, including hazing.

Don’t Ignore It
Learn how to recognize and respond to concerning situations, support someone who may be experiencing harm and build skills to look out for others in the ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� community.

College is full of opportunities to meet new people and join groups, and sometimes the pressure to fit in can lead groups to put new members at risk of harm. Here are some things to know about hazing.

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Healthy Buffs

Feeling sick? Here’s what to do

Stay home and rest

Monitor and manage your symptoms

Get illness care supplies

Let your instructors or supervisors know

Know when to seek medical care

Get emergency care

Take steps to stay healthy

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