Campus Health Promotes Safe Spring Break

This past Monday, NC State students wandering through Stafford Commons outside Talley Student Union were quickly invited to browse a circuit of tables from various campus departments dedicated to making sure their March 11-15 spring break is a good one, and, most importantly, a safe one. 

Campus Health’s inaugural “Safe Spring Break Fair” enjoyed a strong turnout. Students who visited each table received a prize pack containing items to ensure a safe spring break, including a beach towel, beach ball, sunglasses and more. Health Educator Daniel Passonno is excited this event will continue to grow each year.

Several campus departments joined Campus Health to promote safe spring break behaviors. Pack Recovery in Prevention Services set up a table to discuss safe drinking, substance use and the North Carolina Good Samaritan Law. Prevention Services and the Counseling Center also informed students about recharging over break. 

The Wake County Health Department joined the event to speak about safe sex practices, and the NC State Women’s Center shared information about healthy relationships, safe dating and bystander intervention. NC State Police informed students about lodging safety with tips such as not shouting out information about hotel rooms or posting pictures of lodging for spring break trips, and Student Conduct offered information about safe ride home options such as Uber or designated drivers. 

“We are always spending the year doing events and presentations to encourage healthy choices and behaviors,” Passonno said. “We know that spring break can be a high-risk time for many students regarding their well-being, so we want to be intentional in hosting a program designed to encourage students to have a safe and healthy spring break.” 

Wellness and Recreation spoke to students about ideas for outdoor fun and safety with outdoor activities, and the Wellness Village spoke about hydration and sun safety. 

Additionally, Campus Health offered general reminders about refilling prescriptions, COVID tests, the 24-hour nurse advice line, and general wellness during the week; Visit Raleigh offered tips about activities in Raleigh for those staying local; and Pack Essentials presented information about making sure students can have their basic needs met over break. 

“A lot of these are just general well-being reminders for students,” Passonno said. “Take care of yourself during the week, be safe if you choose to drink, stay hydrated, be safe in the sun. Enjoy the week and take care of your wellness. No matter what you’re doing, we just want to encourage all students to stay safe and healthy.”