Campus Life Today | November 21, 2024

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2024

Events

Mental Health Tips – Nicotine Safety 

“Your craving is TEMPORARY, but the damanage to your lungs is permanent.” 

According to a survey from 2023, around 24 percent of college students in the United States who had used tobacco or nicotine products in their lifetime used them daily or almost daily during the last 3 months. This is a scary statistic, especially when we think about how that is up 17.5% since 2017, which means nicotine use is on the rise. In many ways, this can make sense, as the stresses of college can make nicotine usage seem appealing for many students, especially as a way to relax or take the edge off. One of the big problems, however, is that as a young adult, your brain is still developing, so long-term nicotine use can actually reduce your ability to manage some stressors. We are all aware of the long-term damage that nicotine can cause, and the earlier you address it, the better your long-term health will be. As such, here are some tips to help with cutting down your nicotine use:   

• Ask about programs or supports to help you with cutting down and/or quitting nicotine.
• Find a plan that best fits you and your needs. 
• Remind yourself why this is important for you, how it will benefit you and your life. 
• Avoid activities or places that make you want to smoke. 
• Make it public – make people aware so they can help with accountability. 
• Take advantage of the tools and resources available to you on campus – there are a lot! 
• Don’t give up! Slips are often a part of the process. 
• Celebrate small successes! 

UW-Stout Student Counseling Center  

410 Bowman Hall (Clocktower Building)  

Office: 715-232-2468   Hours: 8AM-4:30PM  

• We are currently providing both in person and telehealth services for Stout students.  As always, these sessions are confidential and at no additional cost to enrolled students. You can schedule an appointment by calling the above office number, or schedule online at  www.uwstout.edu/counseling. 
• Check out our Student Counseling Center website, Facebook page (UW-Stout Student Counseling Center), and Instagram (@uwstoutstudentcounselingcenter) for more information on ways to have a great semester.   
• Emergency and Crisis Resources: Call 911 if you are experiencing an emergency. Other mental health crisis options that are available 24/7 include:  
  • Northwest Connections: 1-888-552-6642 (local area, Western WI)
  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call or Text 988  
  • Crisis Text Line: text hello to 741741