How to Survive Being Sick in College

As the weather gets colder and you're spending more time indoors with classmates and friends, it's only a matter of time before someone comes down with a cold, the flu, a stomach bug, or something else. And sometimes, that someone is you! Getting sick is never fun, but it can be especially stressful when you're living in a dorm without all the comforts and supplies you normally have at home or your regular doctor nearby. Luckily, a little preparation can go a long way. Here are some practical tips to help you take care of yourself and get through those sick days while living on campus.

💊 Build a Dorm Sick-Day Kit Before You Need It 

Before cold and flu season hits its peak, consider putting together a sick-day kit with over-the-counter medications and other essentials to keep in your dorm. That way, you'll have what you need on hand if you're not feeling well enough to head to the store. A good place to start includes:

• Daytime and nighttime cold and flu medications
• Ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol)
• Cough drops or throat lozenges
• Tissues
• A thermometer to monitor your temperature
• Hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes
• Disposable face masks

Be sure to read medication labels carefully, as some cold and flu medications contain the same active ingredients as common pain relievers.

You might also want to keep a few easy snacks and drinks in your dorm, like crackers, protein bars, bottled water, or electrolyte drinks. Having these on hand can be especially helpful when you're not feeling well enough to leave your room.

If you get sick before your kit is ready to go, feel free to check out the Wellness Vending Machine, located in University Center on the 2nd floor at the top of the stairs. You'll find the vending machine has some over-the-counter medications, including Cold & Flu medication, available for purchase.

🤒 Feeling Sick? Start with the Basics

If you start feeling under the weather, the best thing you can do is give your body time to recover. Between classes, assignments, and campus activities, it can be tempting to push through, but taking care of yourself should be a priority.

Make sure you're getting plenty of rest, drinking enough water, and eating regular meals to keep your energy up. If you're not feeling up to preparing food, the Pride Cafe offers convenient options like soups and other meals to help you stay nourished.

🤧 Help Keep Yourself & Others Healthy

Living in close quarters can make it easier for germs to spread, especially during cold and flu season. Whether you're feeling under the weather or your roommate is the one who's sick, taking a few simple precautions can help protect everyone in your shared space.

• Practice good hygiene. Wash your hands frequently, cover coughs and sneezes, and disinfect commonly touched surfaces like doorknobs, desks, and light switches.
• Give each other some space. Avoid close contact when possible, consider wearing a well-fitting mask in shared spaces, and avoid sharing drinks, utensils, or personal items.
• Stay home when you're sick. If you're experiencing respiratory symptoms, stay in your dorm and limit contact with others until your symptoms are improving overall and you've been fever-free for at least 24 hours without fever-reducing medication. Continue taking extra precautions for the next few days.
• Look out for one another. If your roommate is sick, offer to pick up food, medications, or other essentials so they can focus on resting and recovering.

Getting sick in a shared living space isn't ideal, but being considerate of one another and taking a few extra precautions can make a big difference! 

📓 Don't Forget About Class

Falling behind in class when you're sick can be stressful, especially with assignments, exams, and attendance requirements. But your health should come first, and there are ways to keep up with coursework while giving yourself time to recover: 

• Communicate with your professors. Let them know as soon as possible if you're too sick to attend class, and ask about any important information or assignments you might miss. Keep in mind that Student Health Services does not provide excuse notes for missed classes, so it's important to discuss any absences directly with your professors.

• Check Canvas. Keep an eye on upcoming deadlines, assignments, and course announcements so you know what to expect when you return.
• Connect with classmates. Ask a friend or classmate to share notes or fill you in on anything important covered while you were out.
• Make a plan to catch up. Once you're feeling better, prioritize missed assignments and upcoming deadlines so you don't feel overwhelmed trying to tackle everything at once.

With some rest, communication, and a little planning, you can stay on track and ease back into your routine when you're feeling better.

🩺 Know Where to Go for Healthcare

While many common illnesses can be managed with rest and self-care, it's important to recognize when you might need additional medical attention. If you're experiencing a persistent fever, worsening symptoms, signs of dehydration, or simply aren't sure what's causing you to feel unwell, don't hesitate to reach out to Student Health Services or another healthcare provider.

If you need medical attention, you can book an appointment with Student Health Services by calling them at (610) 499-1183. Visiting Student Health Services is free, but charges may apply for certain services, such as laboratory tests, immunizations or prescription medications.

Student Health Services is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., during the academic year and is closed during academic breaks.

There are also several local hospitals, urgent cares, and pharmacies if you would prefer to go to one of those, or if you can't make an appointment within Student Health Services' standard hours of operation.  

Find After Hours & Emergency Care Information

If you experience serious symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain, or severe confusion, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Call Campus Safety at 610-499-4200 or dial 911 for medical emergencies.

❤️‍🩹 Feel Better Soon!

Getting sick while living in a dorm isn't fun, but with a little preparation and the right resources, it doesn't have to feel overwhelming. Remember to take care of yourself, ask for help when you need it, and give yourself time to recover.

Now go get some rest and feel better soon!

Ellen Campbell DeLuca is the Director of Student Health Services at Widener University, where she and the Student Health Services team supports the physical health and well-being of students.Through her role, Ellen helps connect students with medical care, health education, and resources to navigate illness and other health concerns. She is dedicated to helping students make informed decisions about their health and develop healthy habits throughout their college experience.