Your Health, Your Future
Taking care of your health is a crucial step toward building a strong future. As a young adult, life can get busy, but staying informed and practicing healthy habits is key to feeling your best. This page will be a hub for resources on mental health and overall wellness to help you take control of your health journey.
Handwashing
Global Handwashing Day is October 15th. A reminder of the simple but powerful habit of washing your hands to prevent illness and the spread of germs.
Why Handwashing Matters:
– Prevents Illness: Washing your hands reduces the spread of viruses and bacteria that can cause colds, flu, and other infections.
– Protects Others: By keeping your hands clean, you help protect those around you, especially in crowded or public places.
When Should You Wash Your Hands?
– Before and after eating or handling food.
– After using the bathroom.
– After coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose.
– After touching commonly shared surfaces, like doorknobs or public transport handles.
Proper Handwashing Steps:
1. Wet your hands with clean, running water.
2. Apply soap and lather by rubbing them together.
3. Scrub all parts of your hands for at least 20 seconds (don’t forget between your fingers and under your nails!).
4. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a clean towel or air dry.
Keeping your hands clean is one of the easiest and most effective ways to stay healthy. Celebrate National Handwashing Day by spreading awareness and practicing good hygiene every day!
Vaping: Know the Risks
Vaping might seem like a safer alternative to smoking, but it carries serious health risks, especially for young adults.
What You Should Know:
- Nicotine Addiction: Vaping products often contain high levels of nicotine, which is highly addictive.
- Impact on Lung Health: Vaping can damage your lungs, leading to breathing issues or even long-term lung disease.
- Unknown Chemicals: Many vape products contain harmful chemicals that aren’t always disclosed.
Need Help Quitting?
Watch What You Eat!
Products containing psychoactive compounds such as cannabis or mushroom extracts are increasing in availability but are dangerous. These “edibles” are often sold as gummy candies, chocolates, or other snack foods. They might contain undisclosed ingredients, including illicit substances, other adulterants, or potentially harmful contaminants that are not approved for use in food.
Recently, Diamond ShruumzTM brand chocolate bars, cones, and gummies were recalled. Additional sample analysis is ongoing, but as of August 8, 2024, FDA test results for nineteen (19) Diamond ShruumzTM brand chocolate bars have identified the presence of multiple substances, including O-acetylpsilocin, psilocin, kavalactones, pregabalin, and muscimol.
There have been cases in which persons end up in the emergency department do to the severe reaction to these products. While the products were recalled, WCHD found product in retail stores such as smoke shops, gas stations, and liquor and general convenience stores. Upon education of the dangerous food products, the store managers immediately removed the products.
Learn more:
Mental Health
Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Whether you’re balancing school, work, or personal life, it’s essential to prioritize your well-being.
Resources:
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 to connect with trained crisis counselors.
- 988 Website – If you need emotional support, reach out to the national mental health hotlineÂ
Think For Yourself
Below are trusted resources, both from our website and external sources, to help answer your health questions and connect you with services that support your journey to optimal health.
Resources:
- Quit smoking
- Â Marijuana:
- Â Sexually Transmitted Infections
- My Plan/Family Planning
Youtube
Looking for easy-to-follow advice on staying healthy? Our YouTube page will be packed with videos on health hacks and loads of information to help keep you healthy. Subscribe now to stay up-to-date with the latest tips and guidance from health professionals.
What You’ll Find:
- Tips from a Public Health Nurse
- Vaping Awareness
- Health Hacks
- And More!
Don’t Miss Out!
Subscribe to our YouTube channel today and take control of your health journey. Be the first to access new content designed to keep you informed, motivated, and feeling your best.
