Hi Mounties! I am looking forward to writing the Wellness column again for The Argosy this year. I am hoping that these articles will be able to provide an overview of different health-related topics that are important to students, as well as the different services and supports that are available at Mt. A. For those of you who do not know me, or have not read my column before, I am a fourth-year Philosophy, Politics, and Economics major, and this is my second year in the Wellness Intern position. I am looking forward to expanding the role outwards to make sure students get the health information they need.
Homecoming is this Saturday, September 21, and it is important for those participating to be prepared. While it is definitely going to be a weekend filled with a lot of fun events and excitement, it is very important to make sure you are staying safe — especially if you are planning on using alcohol or other substances. If you do not plan to use alcohol or substances, you can still have a great time this weekend. While it is an unfortunate situation if those around you pressure you to partake, remember that your boundaries are yours to make and uphold.
Navigate Mt. A will be running a hydration station on the bottom floor of the Wallace McCain Student Centre. The Navigate team will be going around the Mt. A Campus with the “Wellness Wagon,” a crowd-favourite from last year. The team and their wagon will be distributing helpful resources and items, free of charge. If you are looking for a quieter homecoming experience, Mt.A Res Life will be hosting “Balance Basecamp,” where you can relax, grab a snack, and watch a movie. This space will be open from 12-8pm in Avard Dixon 112 on Saturday.
My roommates will tell you that before we go out to any event, I make sure that everyone fills up on some potato wedges (fitting as I am from PEI). You should make sure you are not drinking on an empty stomach, so make sure to eat in advance and throughout the day. Additionally, make sure that you are drinking lots of water, or other hydrators like Gatorade or Bubly… you have to stay hydrated! As a rule of thumb, for every alcoholic beverage you have, you should have a glass of water. This will help not just with pacing yourself, but also with the hangover the next day.
Homecoming is a busy time on campus, so like the football players on the field, make sure you have a gameplan going into it. Ensure you have your phone charged, you have a group to go out with and ways to contact each other should you split up. It is also important to plan out how you are going to get home safely at the end of the night. It is always important to stick with a friend so that you can look out for each other. If someone has had too much to drink or is in a situation that does not feel right, having a friend to offer support can help make sure everyone feels safe and comfortable.
This weekend, make sure to have a great time and enjoy the festivities, while looking out for yourself and those around you. Happy HOCO Mounties!
