Walk A Mile In Her Shoes
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 9, 2013
USU Student Health Services
Contact: Monica Bailey
SAAVI Coordinator
435-797-1510
Walk A Mile In Her Shoes at Utah State University
Students are encouraged to gain awareness about gender and sexual violence.
LOGAN, Utah – The Sexual Assault and Anti-Violence Information (SAAVI) organization at Utah State University is holding the ninth-annual Walk A Mile In Her Shoes event this Friday. Males are encouraged to get involved, and experience what it’s like to Walk A Mile In Her Shoes. Walk A Mile In Her Shoes provides a way to discuss gender and sexual violence. Many perceive rape, sexual assault, and domestic violence as women’s issues. However, research indicates educational efforts aimed at men are powerful tools in violence prevention. Most men are non-violent, so when they take a public stance against violence they are making a difference in their peer community. Walk-a-Mile raises money for the USU SAAVI Office to support their violence prevention and education efforts on campus. There will be two walks on April 12th starting in the USU Taggart Student Center Bookstore hallway and ends at the USU Bookstore entrance. The first walk will start 11:45 a.m. and the second one at 12:45 p.m. If you are planning on walking in this event please show up 30 minutes before the walk time to register. Each participant will receive a free t-shirt and a pair of high-heeled shoes to walk in.
Male participants will walk one-mile in high heels to show they are doing their part to end rape, and sexual abuse is unacceptable. Participants ask friends and family to sponsor their one-mile walk in high-heels, and collected donations before the event. Prizes will be given out to participants such as most enthusiastic walker, or most valuable walker. The organization with the most male participants will be awarded a trophy!
Women are invited to walk along side male participants to show support. If you prefer not to participate in the one-mile walk still attend the event to get free pictures in a photo booth, enjoy live music, or purchase a t-shirt for $1.
Lauren Gould
425-213-9116
Lauren.may.gould@gmail.com
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National Alcohol Screening Day
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 30, 2013
USU Student Health Services
Contact: Ryan V. Barfuss
Prevention Specialist
435-797-1540
Ryan.barfuss@usu.edu
Utah State University Participates in
National Alcohol Screening Day
Students are encouraged to discover
personal drinking levels.
LOGAN, Utah – Alcohol Screening
Day is an event that occurs on various college campuses nationwide. Utah State
University is taking part in this event. “Although alcohol use at USU is fairly
low, with approximately 12 percent of students on campus that drink and four
percent of them being binge drinkers, it doesn’t mean we are immune to the
problems and consequences,” said USU Prevention Specialist, Ryan Barfuss.
The USU Health
and Wellness Center, and Reach Peers are providing resources for students to
gain awareness of their personal behaviors and the risks that follow. National
Alcohol Screening Day is taking place on Thursday, April 4 from 10 a.m. – 2
p.m. in the Ballroom of the Taggart Student Center. Students will be able to
fill out surveys and meet with counselors in order to determine whether they are
high or low risk drinkers. All meetings and questionnaires will be private and
kept confidential. Attendees can also enjoy watching the movie Treasures Lost: Making the Risks Real,
and visit booths provided by the USU Health and Wellness Center, and Counseling
Center. These tables will include information about college drinking, binge
drinking, and proper guidelines of alcohol use.
Whether students drink or not, this is a beneficial event for everyone. For those who abstain from alcohol consumption, this is a great opportunity to use the information for friends or family who participate in risky drinking behaviors. Attend this event to educate yourself on responsible drinking, how to lower the risk, and how to get help for those in need.
“It is very important for students to know the quantity and frequency of drinking that determines low risk or high risk behavior,” said Barfuss. “It is necessary to have tangible guidelines for them to go by.” He advises following the low risk guidelines of zero, one, two, three. This means zero drinks for those who are under age, pregnant, chemically dependent, or the designated driver. No more than one drink an hour. No more than two drinks in one setting. No more than three drinks a day. Abiding by these standards results in low risk for health and impairment issues. Students should also know what qualifies as one drink. One standard drink is half an ounce of alcohol. This includes a 12 oz. beer, ½ oz. shot, or 6 oz. glass of wine.Lauren Gould
425-213-9116
Lauren.May.Gould@Gmail.com
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Healthy Relationships Week
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Jan. 28, 2012
USU Student Health Services
Contact: Ryan V. Barfuss
Prevention Specialist
435-797-1540
Ryan.barfuss@usu.edu
Utah State University Promotes Healthy Relationships
Activities available for USU students to celebrate Valentine’s Day
“This time of year, most people reflect on the relationships they have or want to have,” said Ryan Barfuss, USU Student Health Services Prevention Specialist. “We want students to have the information they need to be safe, and help them discover and create those lifetime relationships that will last forever.”
The day of events will begin with The True Aggie Dating Game at 11:30 a.m. in the Taggart Student Center (TSC) International Lounge. The True Aggie Dating Game will include a participant who will ask questions directed toward three anonymous contestants, and then based solely upon the answers of the contestants the participant will choose one to be his or her date! The winners will receive a date night package that they can enjoy together. Come watch, and enjoy the entertainment of students playing the dating game. Then the Healthy Relationships Panel will begin at 12:30 p.m. also held in the TSC International Lounge. The panel is prepared to answer any relationship-related questions, and Valentine cookies will be provided. Booths will also be accessible throughout the day, providing ideas for creative dates, information about sexual health, and advice on how to maintain a healthy relationship.
The main aspects of a healthy relationship are respect, honesty, communication, and patience, according to Barfuss. He explains that relationships are an important part of a student’s life. Whether you are dealing with a roommate, boyfriend, girlfriend, or spouse, relationships cause stress. The effect of stress can be unhealthy to students, and have an impact on their studies and additional aspects of their lives. USU Student Health Services presents Healthy Relationships and Sexual Responsibility Week to help students during this challenging stage.
Healthy Relationships and Sexual Responsibility Week was created by The Bacchus and Gamma Peer Education Network, a university and community based network focusing on comprehensive health and safety initiatives. This event has taken place at Utah State University for 15 years.
Lauren Gould
(425) 213-9116
Lauren.May.Gould@Gmail.com
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Health Fair 2013
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Jan. 28, 2012
USU Student Health Services
Contact: Ryan V. Barfuss
Prevention Specialist
435-797-1540
Utah State University Student Health Services and the Employee Wellness Program
Presents the Health Fair: resources for healthy well being for mind and body
LOGAN, Utah- The Health Fair will be held Thursday, Jan. 31, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Taggart Student Center (TSC) International Lounge, located on the second floor of the TSC. The Health Fair provides resources to make your 2013 New Year’s resolutions a success. “As a joint effort with Student Services and Human Resources, this event’s purpose is to inspire others and engage people to fulfill their potential of living strong, successful, and healthy lives,” said USU Wellness Coordinator Dayna Barrett. The Health Fair is open to students, employees, and the community. The Health Fair aims to motivate individuals on their wellness journey during any stage of life.
Interactive booths, displays, and health screenings will be available at the Health Fair providing information about nutrition, fitness, relaxation, sustainability, and financial health. Attendees can receive a free health screening to determine body mass index, body fat percentage, blood pressure, blood sugar, grip strength, and flexibility. As well as, receive a free diabetes and blood sugar screening, thanks to the generous support of Logan Regional Hospital. Those who would like to receive a free hearing test provided by the USU Hearing Clinic, please call 435-797-1375.
The Health Fair raises awareness about resources available in Cache Valley to address health concerns. Most people have the potential to live a long, healthy, and full life, therefore it is essential that the human body is appreciated and protected. Poor nutrition and lack of physical activity are common risk factors for an unhealthy lifestyle, such as obesity and diabetes. Eating more fresh fruits and vegetables, engaging in fun physical activities, and learning about the resources and support available are key components of living a healthy life. Serious consequences including anxiety and depression, high blood pressure, irregular blood sugar levels, illness, lack of energy, and decreased academic performance can result if you neglect these lifestyle choices.
“The USU Wellness Program strives to support and enhance the health and wellness of employees and their families, and the broader community by building partnerships, programs and policies that enrich lives. Many of our programs are available to students and community members. More information is available at www.usu.edu/wellness or by contacting dayna.barrett@usu.edu (435-797-8519).”
Lauren Gould
425-213-9116
Lauren.May.Gould@Gmail.com
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Distracted, Drunk, Drugged, & Drowsy Driving Awareness
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Nov. 29, 2012
USU Student Health Services
Contact: Ryan V. Barfuss
Prevention Specialist
435-797-1540
Utah State University Emphasizes the Risks of Distracted Driving
Students are asked to be responsible drivers.
LOGAN, Utah – Distracted driving is a leading cause of car accidents in America, and is an issue that must be addressed. In 2009 alone, nearly 5,500 people were killed and 450,000 more were injured in distracted driving crashes (distraction.gov).
In order to spread the message of the dangers of distracted driving, the USU Student Health and Wellness Center is holding Distracted, Drunk, Drugged, and Drowsy Driving Awareness Week. Beginning Monday, Dec. 3, a billboard will be on display in front of the TSC Ballroom of facts, tips, and information. Various stories will also be featured on the display board concerning accidents that were a result of distracted driving. USU Students are encouraged to stop by the event and educate themselves on the topic.
One of the most common reasons for distracted driving accidents is cell phone usage. Thirty-seven percent of drivers say they have received text messages while driving. It is essential to remember that texting while driving is illegal in the state of Utah, and punishable by the law. Technology is distracting drivers more and more everyday. Forty-one perfect of adult drivers have used at GPS system while driving, and thirteen perfect of adult drivers have surfed the interest while driving. It is important to remember to be distraction free while driving.
“We would like to encourage students to stop by the display, and learn more about driving safely” said Health and Wellness Intern Katie Netzley. The purpose behind this event is to prevent tragedies from happening. Distracted driving accidents destroy the lives of many innocent people. Driving cautiously, not using technology, and being aware of the risks can help spare the lives of many.
“We would like to encourage students to stop by the display, and learn more about driving safely” said Health and Wellness Intern Katie Netzley. The purpose behind this event is to prevent tragedies from happening. Distracted driving accidents destroy the lives of many innocent people. Driving cautiously, not using technology, and being aware of the risks can help spare the lives of many.
Lauren Gould
425-213-9116
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The Smoke Out
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Nov. 5, 2012
USU Student Health Services
1200 North 850 East Logan, UT 84322
Contact: Ryan V. Barfuss
Prevention Specialist
(435) 797-1540
Ryan.barfuss@usu.edu
Utah State University Supports Great American Smoke Out
Student Health Services promote the prevention of tobacco use.
LOGAN, Utah – About 80 percent of smokers are looking for ways to quit, said Ryan Barfuss, prevention specialist at Utah State University’s Student Health and Wellness Center. If you are one of these people or know someone that fits this description, now is the time to get involved with the Great American Smoke Out.This national event provides advice, support, and resources to those looking to quit using tobacco. “The first step is to set the date and move toward it,” Barfuss said. “It’s too easy to put the date off. If you want to quit, why not now?” The Great American Smoke Out provides this initial step of prevention by setting a specific date to quit. Eventually you will have days, weeks, and months behind you which will keep you from falling back to zero. Even if you do get off track, don’t give up hope, start over!
A booth will be available for more information on the TSC patio November 7 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. You can gain support by realizing you are not alone in this fight and process. This event offers brochures and information about resources on and off campus. Student Health Services suggest exercising as a way to take your focus off smoking. Other topics they cover are stress and weight management because both are affected by the use of tobacco. Quit kits will be available at each booth containing items to help prevent tobacco cravings including gum and toothpaste.
Ultimately, the decision to quit smoking is up to you. If you are willing to take this step, take part in the Great American Smoke Out. There is no fee and no obligation. Student Health Services provide plenty of opportunities to begin the process of prevention. Smoking and tobacco cessation classes are available for students free of charge, and online meetings can be arranged for privacy.
The American Cancer Society is marking the 35th Great American Smoke Out on November 18 by encouraging smokers to use the date to make a plan to quit, or to plan in advance and quit smoking that day. By doing so, smokers will be taking an important step towards a healthier life – one that can lead to reducing cancer risk. Quitting smoking is not easy, but it can be done. To have the best chance of quitting successfully, you need to know what you're up against, what your options are, and where to go for help.
Lauren Gould
425-213-9116
Lauren.May.Gould@gmail.com
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Alcohol Awareness Week
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 22, 2012
USU Student Health Services
Contact: Ryan V. Barfuss
Prevention Specialist
435-797-1540
Ryan.barfuss@usu.edu
Utah State University Student Health Services Alcohol Awareness Week
Students are encouraged to learn the real facts about alcohol
LOGAN, Utah – Utah State University Student Health Services presents Alcohol Awareness Week. Student Health Services will have multiple booths dedicated to spreading awareness about alcohol. The booths will be located in the Taggart Student Center (TSC) on October 24, and the patio outside the TSC on October 25, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
USU Student Health Services is providing a way for students to become aware of their personal behaviors, and the risks that follow from alcohol consumption. Whether students drink or not, this event is for everyone at the USU campus. The booths will have goggle games, informational pamphlets, knowledgeable professionals, and contests to win prizes. Each booth will offer different information and activities. For those who abstain from alcohol consumption, this is a great opportunity to learn the information for friends or family who participate in risky drinking behaviors. Students can educate themselves on responsible drinking, how to lower the risk, and how to get help for those in need. Spreading awareness about alcohol is the first step in making sure students at USU are practicing safe drinking behavior.
“It is very important for students to know the quantity and frequency of drinking that determines low risk or high risk behavior,” said Barfuss. “It is necessary to have tangible guidelines for them to go by.” He advises following the low risk guidelines of zero, one, two, three. This means zero drinks for those who are under age, pregnant, chemically dependent, or the designated driver. No more than one drink an hour. No more than two drinks in one setting. No more than three drinks a day. Abiding by these standards results in low risk for health and impairment issues. Students should also know what qualifies as one drink. One standard drink is half an ounce of alcohol. This includes a 12 oz. beer, ½ oz. shot, or 6 oz. glass of wine.
The process to encourage responsible drinking behaviors among students includes education, enforcement, and policy development. Individually, these three aspects cannot accomplish the goal alone, but together they create the standard for proper alcohol use. This event is open to students, faculty, and the community. Student Health Services encourages everyone to learn more about alcohol by stopping by the booths.
Lauren Gould
(425) 213-9116
Lauren.May.Gould@Gmail.com
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USU Student Health 101
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Oct. 10, 2012
USU Student Health Services
1200 North 850 East
Logan, UT 84322
Contact: Ryan V. Barfuss
Prevention Specialist
(435) 797-1540
Ryan.barfuss@usu.edu
Utah State University Student Health Services Launches USU Student Health 101
Student Health 101 is a free LiveMagazine subscription for learning health and wellness.
Student Health 101 distributes information about health and wellness through LiveMagazine technology because it grabs student’s attention, and keeps them engaged. This magazine uses a peer-education style, and social media based approach to delivering health messages to their student subscribers. By utilizing YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter students at Utah State University can interact with their peers, and other students attending different universities. “This is a great opportunity for Utah State University to reach out to students at all other campuses throughout the state,” said USU Prevention Specialist Ryan Barfuss. Each Student Health 101 subscription has it’s own Facebook and Twitter page where students can easily connect and discuss with peers.
Student Health 101 uses a Medical Advisory Board of college health professionals who ensure that the content is accurate, relevant, appropriate, and has learning outcomes that are valuable to students. Each month the magazine is customized to the Utah State University student audience. No two universities will have the same edition of the magazine.
This publication does not only involve students, but their parents as well. Parents are the top source for wellness information for students. This magazine allows parents of students the chance to voice their opinions on what their student is learning about health and wellness.
The articles are mostly student written, and are reviewed by the Student Health 101 Professional Advisory Board and the Student Advisory Board to ensure the messages are effective. Some topics covered are stress management, academic performance, drugs and alcohol, sexual health, mental health, eating well, working out, sleep habits, money management, and sexual assault prevention.
Utah State Students can view this free magazine by going to http://readsh101.com/usu.html, subscribing via e-mail, or liking USU Student Health 101 on Facebook.
425-213-9116
Lauren.May.Gould@Gmail.com
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Breast Cancer Awareness
For Release on Oct. 2, 2012
Sept. 16, 2012
USU Student Health Services
Contact: Ryan V. Barfuss
Prevention Specialist
435-797-1540
Ryan.barfuss@usu.edu
Utah State University Strives to Increase Breast Cancer Awareness
Students are asked to become informed and wear pink in honor of breast cancer victims.
LOGAN, Utah – According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the United States aside from non-melanoma skin cancer. The USU Student Health and Wellness Center is acknowledging breast cancer awareness month by providing information booths on the Taggart Student Center (TSC) Patio October 3 and 4 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Volunteers will be available to answer any questions about breast cancer. Pamphlets will also be accessible for information such as myths and facts of breast cancer, details on how to properly perform self breast examinations, and the ABCs of breast health. Attendees can enter a drawing for various prizes including movie tickets and key chains. Students and faculty are asked to wear pink on October 5 and 6 to demonstrate support for those struggling with breast cancer.
The main goal of the USU Student Health and Wellness Center is to inform the public about the prevalence of breast cancer. Research from the CDC shows 202,964 women were diagnosed with breast cancer in 2007. The same year, 40,598 women died of breast cancer. That is nearly twice the number of students enrolled at USU.
The best kind of protection is early detection. The top prevention measure for breast cancer is getting screened regularly. Students and faculty are encouraged to participate in monthly breast self-examinations, and information will be provided at the booth. Other prevention methods include managing weight, exercising, becoming familiar with your family history of breast cancer, discovering the risks and benefits of hormone replacement therapy, and limiting alcohol consumption."October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM). Since its inception over a quarter century ago, NBCAM has been at the forefront of promoting awareness of breast cancer issues and has evolved along with the national dialogue on breast cancer. Today, NBCAM recognizes that although many great strides have been made in breast cancer awareness and treatment, there remains much to be accomplished. As it celebrates the 28th anniversary, it remains dedicated to educating and empowering women to take charge of their own breast health by practicing regular self-breast exams to identify any changes, scheduling regular visits and annual mammograms with their healthcare provider, adhering to prescribed treatment, and knowing the facts about recurrence" (nbcam.org).
Lauren Gould
425-213-9116
Lauren.may.gould@gmail.com
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