As the colder months roll in, so does the peak season for colds, flu, and other illnesses that seem to spread through campus faster than a study group’s group chat! Taking a moment to understand how best to handle cold and flu season – including staying home if you're unwell – can help keep our community healthier and happier.

Tips for Staying Healthy This Season

While it’s impossible to avoid every cold or flu, you can adopt some simple practices to keep yourself and others healthy:

• Covering coughs and sneezing
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
• Wash your hands often
• Stay home if you are feeling unwell
• Practice other healthy habits:
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick
  • Get plenty of sleep
  • Eat well, with lots of vegetables and fruits
  • Drink lots of fluids
  • Exercise regularly
  • Manage your stress 

Get Vaccinated

One of the best ways to protect yourself and those around you this season is to get the flu shot and the latest COVID-19 vaccine. Vaccinations are essential tools in reducing the spread of these viruses and in lowering the severity of symptoms if you do get sick. Stay tuned for flu shot clinics at Student Health and Wellness or visit a local pharmacy to take advantage of this extra layer of defense!

When to Stay Home

Sometimes staying home is key to giving your body time to rest and recover. If you have symptoms like a fever, cough, sore throat, or body aches, it’s best to rest at home. By avoiding class or group activities, you reduce the chance of spreading illness to others who could be more vulnerable to severe symptoms. 

If you’re worried about how missing class will impact your grades or progress, remember that your professors and GAs are here to help and can help you navigate deadlines or missed assignments. Just make sure to reach out as soon as possible and refer to the Missed or Late Academic Term Work due to Illness or Other Extenuating Circumstance for more specific guidance on the next steps.

When to See a Doctor

In most cases, you don’t need to see your doctor when you have a cold or flu. There is no cure for the common cold. All you can do to feel better is treat the symptoms while your body fights off the virus. For the flu, your doctor will probably recommend that you treat the symptoms until you feel better. Over-the-counter medicines cannot cure a cold or the flu but can help relieve cold or flu symptoms.

See a medical provider if:

• You have a fever of 38.5°C for more than 48 hours

• You have chest pain, shortness of breath

• You have had coughing spells or coloured sputum

• If you have a persistent sore throat or swollen glands and neck

These are guidelines only. If for any other reason you feel that further attention is necessary, make an appointment with your healthcare provider. 

Together, let’s make this cold and flu season as manageable as possible for everyone. By looking out for each other and ourselves, we can keep our campus strong, healthy, and supportive!

Lindsey Wachter, R.Kin, Health Promoter

As the semester nears an end, teacher candidates are preparing to step into classrooms to teach children in their Fall placements. Although it is a very exciting time to put everything that has been learned into practice in a real classroom setting, it can also be a very daunting experience. In order to be a successful teacher candidate, we need to ensure that we are taking care of ourselves in both the mental and physical sense. 

Here are 5 tips to take care of your mental and physical health while heading into placement. 

1. Develop a stable morning and evening routine.

Adjusting to a strict day to day routine in a new environment can only be done if our mornings are productive and both physically and mentally prepare us for our day in the classroom. Taking the time to prepare for early mornings can help put our brains at ease at night. 

2. Have a clean and relaxing space to work and live in. 

A clean space means a clean mind. By taking the time to ensure the environment we are coming home to is clean and clutter free, it helps our brain be able to decompress from the busy day. 

3. Try out new healthy lunch recipes. 

Taking a lunch to school everyday can become monotonous. Trying out some new recipes that make our lunch breaks that much more exciting is always a good idea. Check out one of our previous blog posts for essential staples to have in your pantry! Pinterest is also a great resource for finding recipes inspiration.

4. Use Student Health and Wellness Resources

Student Health and Wellness has many resources that are still accessible to you while on placement. Our Nurse Practitioner and Counsellor are all available via online appointments for your convenience. You can also check-in with your mental health and access a variety of mental health resources through the WellU Key. We are here to help you during this transitional time, even if you are not on campus. For more information on the resources available to you, click here. 

5. Keep in contact with friends and have fun! 

Keeping in contact with friends on campus is a quintessential way to remain calm and happy during placement. Even though leaving our friends can be very difficult, it is important to remember that placement is going to be the best experience, and that your friends are only a call away! Making plans to meet up during and after your placement can be a great way to remain connected to friends. 

This year, daylight saving time ends Sunday, Nov. 3, with clocks rolling back one hour at 2 am. Student Health and Wellness has some advice on how you can fall back into standard time. 

1. Don't Forget Manual Clocks

While most smartphones and computers update the time automatically, there are a number of clocks that you’ll need to change manually. Consider updating the clocks in your home, including those on your microwave, oven and car, before you go to bed on Saturday. In the morning, you’ll be relieved to know all of your clocks have the correct time.  

2. Adopt a wind-down routine

Try to incorporate relaxing activities into a nightly routine that you can enjoy before bed.  You can take a shower or bath, sip on a cup of caffeine-free tea, read a book or listen to a meditation. These types of activities will help your mind and body settle down for a good night’s sleep.

3. Stick to a consistent sleep schedule

It can be tempting to make use of your extra hour but even minor disruptions to sleep can affect our mood, energy levels, concentration and overall health. The closer you stick to your normal routine of getting between seven and nine hours of sleep each night, the faster your body will adjust to the time change. 

4. Limit your screen time

Our phone and computer screens emit high levels of blue light, which can negatively impact sleep. Blue light affects your circadian rhythm and melatonin (sleep) hormone levels, tricking your brain into thinking it is still daytime. While blue light glasses have become increasingly popular to combat these effects, there is limited research on their effectiveness. Instead, try to limit your screen time before bed or use apps that filter out or block blue light to help you get a better night’s sleep. Many devices allow you to set a timer, so your screen automatically reduces the amount of blue light at night and returns to normal in the morning. Here are a few you can try: 

• Night Shift on iPhone
• Night Mode on Android
• F.lux on Windows, Mac and iPad 

5. Avoid caffeine, alcohol and snacks before bed

Caffeine stimulates your nervous system and may prevent your body from relaxing naturally at night. Alcohol and food can also impact your sleep by disrupting your sleep hormones. It's best to avoid consuming them later in the evening to help your body relax and prepare for sleep. If you are feeling hungry, keep your snacks small and light. 

6. Take a cat nap if needed

If you’re feeling the effects of returning to standard time, it’s okay to take a quick cat nap during the day. Just be sure to limit your naps to 20–30 minutes. Longer naps can disrupt your normal sleep patterns and leave you feeling more tired overall.

For more information on sleep hygiene, check out our sleep page.

-Lindsey Wachter, R. Kin, Health Promoter

Being a Thunderwolf means embarking on new adventures, tackling academic challenges, and embracing life at Lakehead. But as exciting as it all is, there’s one thing many students experience homesickness. Whether you're far from home or just feeling a bit disconnected, homesickness can sneak up on anyone, even the fiercest Thunderwolves.

If you're missing home, your family, or even your favourite hometown hangouts, don’t worry you’re not alone! Here are some ways to deal with homesickness and make your university experience a little brighter.

1. Stay Connected with Your Pack

Just because you’re physically away doesn’t mean you have to lose touch with your loved ones. Schedule regular check-ins with family and friends whether it's a call, video chat, or even a quick text. Hearing from your people can give you a sense of familiarity and remind you that your support system is still there, even if you’re miles apart.

2. Create a Home Away from Home

Feeling homesick often stems from being in an unfamiliar environment, but you can change that by making your dorm room feel cozy and personal. Bring things that remind you of home, your favourite blanket, family photos, or decorations from your room back home. Turning your space into a comfortable retreat can help ease the transition and make your room a place you actually want to come back to after a long day.

3. Get Involved with Your Fellow Thunderwolves

The best way to feel at home in a new place is to connect with the people around you. Join clubs, teams, or campus activities to meet new friends and build your own Lakehead community. Staying busy and making connections will help you feel more grounded, and before you know it, you'll have your own pack of Thunderwolves to share experiences with.

4. Explore Your New Territory

Thunderwolves are naturally adventurous, so take some time to explore your new surroundings. Whether you’re in Thunder Bay or Orillia, there’s plenty to discover, check out local restaurants, hiking trails, or campus hangouts. Finding your own favourite spots in your new city can help you feel more at home and give you something to look forward to when homesickness strikes.

5. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help

It's okay to feel a bit lost or overwhelmed you're not alone in this. If homesickness or adjusting to university life feels too tough, reach out to someone. Student Health and Wellness offers resources like counselling and support services to help you through tough times. Sometimes, just talking about how you’re feeling with a friend or a professional can make all the difference.

6. Keep a Balanced Routine

When homesickness creeps in, it’s easy to fall into a rut. Maintaining a routine can help keep you on track and give you a sense of normalcy. Schedule regular times for studying, meals, exercise, and relaxation. Sticking to a routine can help you feel more in control and reduce those overwhelming feelings of homesickness.

7. Remember Why You’re Here

When you’re feeling down, remind yourself why you chose Lakehead in the first place. Whether it’s the program you’re passionate about, the unique opportunities you have here, or the excitement of university life, focusing on your goals can help keep you motivated. Thunderwolves are all about embracing challenges, and this is just one more hurdle you’ll overcome as you grow stronger and more independent.

Homesickness is part of adjusting to life as a university student, but with time and a few strategies, you’ll start to feel more at home. Remember, Thunderwolves are resilient, and with the right support and mindset, you’ll thrive at Lakehead.

If you ever need someone to talk to or extra support, remember that Student Health and Wellness is here to help you through the ups and downs. Stay strong, Thunderwolves you’ve got this!

• Prishaa Rajalathan, Peer Wellness Educator Lead

As Halloween approaches, Thunderwolves are gearing up for a night of frightening fun, costumes, and parties. While this spooky season is all about building memories, it’s crucial to keep the night safe, especially when alcohol is involved. Whether you're a seasoned partygoer or just looking to enjoy the festivities, keeping safety in mind can make all the difference.

With a little bit of caution, you can make sure your Halloween is all treats and no tricks. Here are some simple tips to keep your night from turning into a nightmare.

1. Know When to Boo-ze, and When to Stop

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the night, but drinking too much too fast can leave you feeling like a zombie before the party even gets going. Sip your drinks slowly and mix in water or a non-alcoholic beverage. No one will notice if you alternate with soda or juice! Remember, Halloween isn’t a race pace yourself so you can enjoy the whole night, not end it early by overdoing it.

2. Keep Hydrated: Don’t Turn into a Mummy!

Parties can be a whirlwind of dancing, socializing, and sipping on spooky cocktails. But beware, alcohol dehydrates you, and if you’re not careful, you’ll wake up feeling as dry as a mummy the next day. To avoid this, drink a glass of water between each alcoholic drink. It’s a simple trick to keep you feeling good all night long and prevent that dreaded next-day slump.

3. No Tricks, Just Treats: Eat Before Drinking

Think of drinking on an empty stomach like trick-or-treating without the candy, just not a good idea! Just like vampires need blood, your body needs food before you start drinking. Eating a solid meal beforehand will help absorb the alcohol and keep your energy up throughout the night. It’ll also stop you from fading away like a ghost before the fun is over.

4. Keep an Eye on Your Potion

When it comes to drinks, treat them like potions, know exactly what’s in them. Don’t accept a drink you didn’t see being poured, and never leave your drink unattended while you’re dancing or chatting with friends. The last thing you want is an unexpected ingredient in your witch’s brew, so keeping an eye on your potion is key.

5. Have a Way to Escape

The scariest part of Halloween shouldn’t be trying to figure out how to get home. Before the night begins, make sure you have an exit plan. Whether it’s a designated driver, public transit, or a rideshare like Uride, Uber or Lyft, having a way home that doesn’t rely on “winging it” will ensure you don’t end up stranded like a ghost at the end of the night. Plan ahead, so you don’t find yourself in a frightening situation.

6. Stick with the Pack

Halloween is more fun and safer when celebrated with friends. Much like a pack of werewolves, staying with your group ensures no one gets left behind. Keep an eye on each other, and if someone in your crew has had too much to drink, help them find a safe way home. Whether you’re heading to the dance floor or taking a breather outside, use the buddy system and make sure everyone sticks together.

By following these tips, Thunderwolves can enjoy a night full of fun and spooky memories while keeping things safe. The key to a fang-tastic Halloween is pacing yourself, staying aware, and making responsible choices.

And if you or a friend ever need support, Student Health and Wellness is always here to help you navigate both the thrills and chills of university life. Stay safe and have a spook-tacular Halloween, Thunderwolves!

• Prishaa Rajalathan, Peer Wellness Educator Lead

As Thunderwolves return to classes, it appears that we as a pack are not getting as much sleep as we all got during summer months. Although sleep may be at the bottom of your to-do list, it is an essential part of healthy development and academic success. 

Here are our top tips for fixing your sleep schedule during the academic year. 

1. Have a Consistent Sleep Schedule

Having a solid bedtime routine will not only allow you to slow down your evenings and relax, but it will also allow you to ensure you go to bed at or around the same every night. Providing yourself enough time each night to wind down before getting into bed every night will help you feel much more tired and make falling asleep easier. 

2. Limit screen time. 

As University students, we are glued to our phones — whether it be for completing an assignment or catching up on social media— technology tends to take up a majority of our day to day lives. Rather than scrolling through Tiktok before bed, try taking up a simple craft such as colouring or reading a chapter or two of a book to relax your mind before drifting off to sleep. 

3. Create a cozy environment. 

Even if this September has been on the warmer side, creating a cozy environment to end your day can make all the difference when getting a beneficial sleep. You don’t need to go to the store and buy a million fluffy pillows (you totally can though) but rather use things you already have at home to create a cozy atmosphere. This can look like dimming the lights, putting on a pair of cozy pajamas, drinking a warm beverage, cuddling up with a pet, or anything else that personally helps you feel warm and cozy inside. 

4. Separating Academics and Sleep

As nice as it is to do a Zoom class from the comfort of your bed, it is actually doing more harm than good. Your brain should associate your bed with only sleep and relaxation, however, if we complete other activities in this environment, it can throw off our associations which only leads to having issues falling asleep. Separating our places of work and relaxation can have a positive effect on sleeping habits and ensure we are getting the most out of our sleep. 

If you are looking for more supports, Student Health and Wellness is here to support you. Click here to see all of the ways Student Health and Wellness can help you! 

- Makayla Foster, Peer Wellness Educator Lead

Your campus fitness guide

Whether you’re looking to be active, meet new people or explore new hobbies, Lakehead has plenty of options. Here are some ways to get involved if you want to get moving this year.

Visit the Lakehead Athletics Centre

Membership to the Athletics Centre is included in your student fees and you have access to all the facilities- pool, courts, multiple training areas, outdoor soccer fields, beach volleyball courts, indoor turf and track in the Hangar.  To learn more about the facilities and see open times, check out their website. 

*Wolfie Pro tip: Be sure to download the LakeheadMOVE app to for your digital gym barcode to sign in, sign up for fitness classes, and see open gym/field hours! 

 Download: Apple App Store      Download: Google Play Store

Move with the pack

If you’re looking for a fun way to work out with others, check out these options:

• Group fitness classes: Campus Rec offers a variety of classes that are led by a qualified instructor. Classes range from cardio, strength, dance-oriented, yoga, and water-based classes. Stay tuned for the class schedule in October on their group fitness page.

• Go with the Flow: The Athletics Centre is home to Modo Yoga, classes aren’t included in your facility membership but they do offer a student rate, karma classes and an energy exchange program. Student Health and Wellness also offers free yoga classes during the academic year on Saturdays from 11am- 12pm- classes begin on September 14, no experience or registration is required! 

ResSports: If you live in residence, Reslife coordinates sports leagues and drop-ins throughout the year, you can break a sweat and earn house points! Get more information from your RA. 

Get outside

Living in Thunder Bay means you have access to some of the most scenic natural areas in Ontario, right in your own backyard! If you’re interested in getting outside this semester, check out some of the resources below

• Campus Trails: You don’t even need to leave campus to enjoy the beautiful scenery- check out our campus trail map.

• Hiking in the area: There is no shortage of parks, conservation areas and trails in the area, with some only a bus ride away, use the wayfinder app to plan your route in advance. 

• Equipment checkout: The Outdoor Rec Depot has tons of equipment available for the public at low rates. Athletics has equipment available such as basketballs, badminton racquets and skipping ropes available at the front desk. Residence has a variety of sports equipment available to res students, stop by Bartley Front to see what is available!  Res students can also book the outdoor tennis courts and residence rink in the winter months. 

• Outdoor Courts and Fields: Want to throw together a scrimmage with friends? Check out the outdoor sand volleyball courts by the Fieldhouse or one of the soccer fields on campus (by the Fieldhouse, behind the Avila or behind the Bora Laskin Education building) 

• Lake Tamblyn: Skating on our campus lake is a time-honoured tradition, watch for an announcement from Security for when the ice is safe. 

Play sports

Sports can be a fun way to stay active and meet new friends. Here are a couple of ways you can get involved in sports at Lakehead:

• Intramural Sport leagues: Campus Rec offers multiple sessions of Intramural Sports leagues throughout the year. You can sign up as a team or join a team as a free agent to play a variety of sports. No experience is required to play, and all ability levels are welcome. Not sure you can commit- watch out for mini-leagues being offered.

• Sport Clubs: Participate in competitive sports and compete against teams outside the university. Some teams may also require tryouts. Learn more about Sport Clubs

Follow us on social

Learn more about upcoming opportunities and events through Campus and Student Health and Wellness by following us on social (@Lakeheadcampusrec and @lakeheadlife)!

The first grocery shop of the school year is a doozie-  making a plan ahead of time can help you take advantage of deals, ensure you have all the staples and avoid each roommate buying their own 10lb bag of rice. Check out this list below for some pantry essentials.

Welcome to Lakehead! Whether it’s your first time on campus or you’re returning after a break, a new academic year brings the chance to meet new people and make new connections. Whether you’re looking to make new friends, embrace your Thunderwolf spirit, or strengthen your existing friendships, here are some tips for a great year:

Get Involved

Join Clubs and Teams: Check out the clubs on your campus, or create your own. Sign up as an individual, or with a group for intramural sports at Campus Rec. These are great ways to meet people with similar interests. 

Participate in School Events: There are always plenty of Events to attend throughout orientation, all the way up to Orientation and beyond. Check out events like Trivia nights with LUSU, Crafternoons with Student Health and Wellness, and Workshops with the Pride and Gender Equity Centre. If you live on Residence, visit your residence events or drop in to meet new people! 

Connect Online: Join the University Discord, online groups for your program, and add people from your program on social media. This is a great way to stay updated on events, ask questions about classwork, and connect with peers.  

Keep an Open-Mind

Explore New Groups: Attend various events to meet different people and learn about groups you might not have interacted with before. 

Embrace Diversity: Approach new experiences and perspectives with an open mind, it can lead to meaningful connections and a broader understanding of other experiences.

Be Respectful: You may meet people from different ethnicities, cultures, gender identities, sexualities, abilities, and more. Everyone here is a Thunderwolf, so respect everyone’s unique experiences. 

Be Yourself

Discover Who You Are: University is a time of self-discovery. It’s the time to try new experiences, and learn more about yourself and others! 

Authenticity Matters: Be genuine when you’re talking to others. True connections are built on authenticity, and shared experiences. 

Be Approachable:  Smile, make eye contact, get to know people. Being welcoming can go a long way in making others feel comfortable around you, and open the door to new friendships. 

Use Your Support Systems

Adjusting to a new environment can be overwhelming with new people, places, sounds and routines. If you’re feeling lonely or homesick, reach out to your support systems. Student Health and Wellness offers counselling services, staying connected with friends and family can provide comfort, and making new friends can help too. Remember, you’re not alone – you are now part of our pack, and you will be okay!

–Aaliyah Stewart, SHW Summer Research Assistant

Understanding your healthcare options is crucial to ensuring that you have access to necessary medical services while away from home.  Having a solid grasp of your healthcare coverage can help you make informed decisions and avoid unexpected expenses. With the right information, you can focus on your studies with the peace of mind that comes from knowing you're covered.

Canada has universal public health care, meaning that no matter who you are or what you make financially, you have access to healthcare. It is available to Canadian citizens but plans vary from province to province. Because everyone has access to services it can be expected that there will be longer wait times than privatized countries.

Primary Coverage

OHIP

OHIP is Ontario’s health care plan for permanent residents and provides many of the basic health and medical services you may need.

COVERAGE INCLUDES:

• Doctor visits

• Hospital visits and stays

• X-rays

• Lab tests

• Surgery

• Pregnancy

• Emergency care

 OHIP does not cover prescription drugs provided in non-hospital settings, dental services provided in a dentist’s office, or cosmetic surgery.

Visit www.ontario.ca/ohip to see eligibility requirements and apply for a health card.

UHIP

UHIP is the insurance plan for international students*. It provides many of the same health services and medical treatments covered by OHIP. International students are automatically enrolled and billed through their tuition.

COVERAGE INCLUDES:

• Doctor visits

• Hospital visits and stays

• X-rays and lab tests

• Surgery

• Pregnancy

• Emergency care and more

Visit uhip.ca to understand your coverage or contact uhip@lakeheadu.ca.

*AEP & exchange students are automatically enrolled in Guard.Me.

Supplementary Coverage

Supplementary health plans work in combination with UHIP/OHIP to fill gaps in coverage. LUSU provides a plan for students. Undergraduate students fully registered for fall and winter with at least 3.75 FCE before the final date to add in September are automatically enrolled. All other undergraduate and graduate students must opt-in.

COVERAGE INCLUDES

• Prescription drugs/ eligible vaccines

• Dental care

• Vision care

• Mental health providers

• Chiropractors, Physiotherapists, Massage Therapists, etc.

• And more

LUSU Health and Dental Plan Discounts

• Visit lusu.ca/healthplan for additional discounts & savings available through your LUSU health & dental plan

Visit lusu.ca/healthplan to learn more about the health and dental plan

Where to Access Primary Health Care Providers

Lakehead Student Health and Wellness

Thunder Bay

Student Health and Wellness is your family doctor away from home. This by-appointment-only service is available Monday- Friday between 8:45am-4:15pm and wait times for appointments can vary.

All registered part-time and full-time students at Lakehead are eligible for services. Students will be seen by a nurse and/or physician for medical appointments. SHW can bill UHIP directly. Bring your Student ID and health card/UHIP card to all appointments.

To make your first appointment, complete our Intake Form and someone from our office will contact you during regular business hours (Monday-Friday) to schedule an appointment. Follow up appointments can be made by calling 807-343-8361.

Orillia

Appointments with a Nurse Practitioner from the Huronia Nurse Practitioner-Led Clinic are available at the Lakehead Wellness Centre on Thursdays. Services are available for available for all registered full and part time students at Lakehead.

To book an appointment with the Nurse Practitioner on campus, please submit the Orillia Health and Wellness Request form through MySuccess.

Need to Be Seen Right Away?

If you need immediate help while on campus, call ext 8911 (Thunder Bay) or ext. 3912 (Orillia). For off-campus emergencies, you can also dial 911, or if you are able, proceed directly to the hospital emergency room. Bring your health/UHIP card.

For non-emergency medical concerns, students can access local walk-in clinics or pharmacists can prescribe certain treatment options, for some common minor ailments. Physician-led walk-ins are covered by OHIP & UHIP but UHIP billing practices vary.

• Thunder Bay Walk-in clinics

• Orillia Walk-in Clinics

Finding Other Providers

If you are looking for other health care providers to support your wellbeing use the links below to find someone in your area:

• Pharmacies

• Physiotherapists

• Chiropractors

• Massage Therapists

• Optometrists

• Dentists

• Naturopaths