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8 tips for living in Colorado

Anonymous — Mon, 19 Aug 2024 16:23:26 +0000

8 tips for living in Colorado Anonymous (not verified) Mon, 08/19/2024 - 10:23

Summer and fall can be a great time to enjoy everything Colorado has to offer. However, it’s also important to be aware of potential risks from elevation, heat and more.

Here are some tips and reminders to make the most of your Colorado experience.

1. Acclimate to the altitude

Colorado’s higher elevations can catch newcomers off guard. While downtown Boulder sits at around 5,300 feet above sea level, it’s easy to travel to areas much higher up in a short amount of time. For instance, the Flatirons summit is above 7,000 feet.

While altitude sickness typically occurs between 7,500 and 8,000 feet in elevation, some may experience symptoms before reaching this range. Here are some things to know about altitude sickness and what to do if you or someone you know begins experiencing symptoms.

Symptoms

Watch for signs of potential altitude sickness:

Headache
Sickness, nausea
Dizziness, lightheadedness
Tiredness
Loss of appetite
Shortness of breath

Treatment

If you think you may be experiencing altitude sickness, follow these tips to treat it:

Stop and rest. If possible, descend to a lower altitude.
Take ibuprofen or acetaminophen to treat headaches.
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and reduce symptoms.
Avoid consuming alcohol, vaping or exercising for the next 24 to 48 hours.

Medical Attention

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention right away:

Loss of consciousness
Confusion, altered mental state
Fever
Blue tinge to skin or lips
Breathing difficulties, even when resting or lying down
Chest tightness
Persistent coughing with pink or white frothy liquid
Tiredness, weakness
Rapid heart rate

These symptoms are an indicator of high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE) or high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE), which can be fatal if left untreated.

2. Protect yourself from the sun

The sun’s rays are more intense at higher elevations, making it the perfect place to catch a sunburn. This is because there is less atmosphere protecting you from the sun’s UV rays. Here are a few tips that can help you avoid sun damage:

Wear SPF 30+
Lather up with sunscreen that has an SPF of 30 or higher. It’s usually best to apply your first coat of sunscreen about 30 minutes before you head outside. You’ll also need to reapply every one to two hours while out in the sun. For the best coverage, opt for sunscreen lotions rather than sprays. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen in the winter, too, especially if you go skiing this winter.
Avoid peak sun times
Keep to the shade and try to avoid prolonged sun exposure, especially between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun’s rays are most intense.
Wear a hat
Pick out a hat with a wide brim that provides ample shade and protection against the sun. While baseball caps are popular, they may not be the best option for protecting your head or face from sun damage. Instead, try to opt for a sun hat, bucket hat or other styles that offer more protection.
Wear sunglasses
The sun can affect more than just your skin. That’s why it’s important to wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from sun damage. Polarized sunglasses can reduce the impact of UV rays and help reduce glare during the daytime.
Look for UPF clothing
UPF stands for ‘ultraviolet protection factor’ and is used to indicate how much UV radiation a fabric allows to reach your skin. If you are shopping for new hiking or outdoor gear, be sure to check the UPF rating and look for products that are rated as UPF 30 or above. These will offer you the best protection against the sun. Additionally, it’s important to remember that fabric wetness, wear and laundering can lessen the effectiveness of UPF clothing over time.

3. Beat the bugs

Common Colorado bugs include mosquitos, bees, wasps, ticks, ants, spiders and gnats. Luckily for us, this region is relatively safe in terms of bug-related illnesses like Lyme disease (from ticks) and West Nile (from mosquitos). However, stings and bites can still be itchy and annoying. If you’re looking to beat the bugs, here are some tips to follow:

Avoid standing or stagnant water, as it can serve as a breeding ground for mosquitoes.

Wear long sleeves and pants if possible. Consider tucking your pants into your socks and your shirt into your pants to block potential entries for bugs.
Use an EPA-registered bug repellent. Most repellents are available in sprays, lotions or as wearable bracelets.
Walk in the center of trails and inspect your body for ticks when you get home, especially if you’ve spent time in grassy, bushy or wooded areas.

Please note:
While cases of Lyme disease, Colorado Tick Fever (both caused by ticks) and West Nile Virus (caused by mosquitos) are rare in Colorado, it’s important to be mindful of possible symptoms, like headaches, stiffness, rashes, joint pain and vomiting. If you experience these symptoms, make an appointment with a healthcare provider.

4. Prepare for unpredictable weather

Check the forecast before heading outside and remember that Colorado weather can change in an instant. The best way to prepare for abrupt weather changes is to wear or pack layers with you when venturing outside, especially during the late afternoon. Be prepared for unexpected wind, rain or hail by bringing a windbreaker or rain jacket. If you think you may get wet, opt for synthetic materials like polyester and nylon, which dry more quickly. Cotton-based clothing can retain moisture and leave you sopping wet by the end of the day.

Note: If you plan to hike at high elevations (i.e., above 10,000 feet), it’s important to start your journey early in the day. Severe thunderstorms and hail are common in the afternoons and evening.

5. Practice fire safety

Colorado's dry climate increases the risk of wildfires, especially during summer months. Stay informed about fire bans and restrictions in your area, and always follow proper fire safety protocols when camping or enjoying outdoor activities. If you live off-campus, ensure your residence has working smoke detectors and a fire extinguisher. Familiarize yourself with evacuation routes and have an emergency plan in place.

6. Stay hydrated

High elevation can leave you feeling more dehydrated than usual. Be sure to drink one liter (32 oz.) of water every two hours while doing physical activity outside. It’s also important to bring extra water if you plan to be outdoors with pets or other people. Avoiding caffeine (a diuretic) can also help you stay hydrated for longer.

7. Avoid overheating

Colorado can get hot, hot, hot, especially in the summer and fall. If the heat index is above 90°F (32°C), you should use extreme caution when engaging in outdoor activities or exercise. Keep in mind that the heat index is a measure of how hot it feels, not how hot the reported outdoor temperature is.

It’s also important to be mindful of outdoor temperatures when on campus, especially if you’re commuting to classes. Temperatures between 90° F and 105°F (32°C - 40°C), you may experience heat cramps, heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

If you get too hot, follow these tips:

Get out of the heat by resting in a cool place such as an air conditioned building, shade or in front of a fan.
Drink cool liquids like water or sports drinks. Avoid drinking alcohol or caffeine as this can make you more dehydrated.
Cool down by taking a cold shower, using ice packs or wetting towels in cold water to apply to your neck and head.
Remove any unnecessary or tight clothing.

If you or someone you know experiences any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention:

Nausea, vomiting
Dizziness, fainting
Shortness of breath, stop breathing
Fever of 102°F (39°C) after 30 minutes of treatment
Shock, seizures
Weakness
Loss of consciousness

8. Respect wildlife

Colorado is home to a wide variety of less-than-friendly animals, including bears, mountain lions and rattlesnakes. Here are some tips that can help you stay safe and avoid scuffles with wildlife.

Keep your distance
Never approach wildlife. Maintain a safe distance between yourself and wildlife you come across. A good rule of thumb is to stay about two or three bus lengths away.

Never feed wild animals
Food can attract animals, including those you’d rather not meet. Never feed animals or leave food unattended. This rule also applies to animals on campus such as squirrels, birds and raccoons.

Keep trash locked
Bears love trash. If you live in an area where you have your own trash bins, be sure to keep them properly locked and follow your area’s guidelines for putting them out for collection.

Keep pets on leash
Encounters between pets and wildlife can be dangerous for you and your pet. Keep all pets leashed when hiking or exploring to avoid potential confrontation or aggression.

Resources

Apothecary Pharmacy	Adventure Resource Center	Outdoor Equipment Rentals	Figueroa Family Wellness Suite
The Apothecary Pharmacy at Wardenburg Health Center carries a variety of over-the-counter products, including sunscreen, allergy medication, lip balm, aloe vera, anti-itch cream and more.	The Adventure Resource Center is a free and open resource to help you plan your next trip into the outdoors. They provide route recommendations, backcountry meal planning tips, equipment recommendations and mapping services.	Outdoor Pursuits offers outdoor gear rentals to students, staff and faculty. Rental equipment includes hiking, camping, climbing, tubing, water sports and winter equipment options.	Did you know you can pick up free sunscreen, first aid and other wellness supplies at the Figueroa Family Wellness Suite on the third floor of Wardenburg Health Center?

Summer and fall are a great time to explore Colorado. Here are some safety tips and reminders to help you make the most of the warm weather.

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8 things to talk to your student about before St. Paddy’s Day weekend

Anonymous — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 20:32:16 +0000

8 things to talk to your student about before St. Paddy’s Day weekend Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 02/29/2024 - 13:32

Some students may look forward to unwinding over St. Patrick’s Day weekend and spring break. However, it’s important to make sure they continue to make smart choices when celebrating or blowing off steam.

Here are a few things you may want to talk to your student about before they go out for St. Paddy’s Day weekend.

1. Normalize substance-free activities

St. Patrick’s Day is often associated with drinking and pub crawls. However, there are a lot of substance-free ways to celebrate the holiday. Encourage your student to think through what they want to do over the weekend, and remind them that it’s okay if they don’t want to drink or use other substances.

If your student isn’t sure what to do, encourage them to check out St. Patrick’s Day events on campus.

2. Have a plan in advance

Large celebrations and holiday parties can become overwhelming. That’s why it’s important to encourage your student to plan out their night or weekend in advance. Here are some ways you can help them plan ahead.

Who’s in their group? Ask your student who they intend to go out with. You can also ask them if everyone in that group is on the same page about where they want to go and what they want to do. Remind your student that it’s best to choose a group of friends that they know will take care of them, even if things don’t go as planned.

What will they do if their group gets separated? Encourage your student to commit to sticking together with their friends. Help them make a plan for what to do if they get separated and how they plan to meet back up. Using the ‘share my location’ feature on their phone is a great way to let others know where they are.

How will they check in with their friends? Does your student have the phone number of everyone who they’re going out with? Encourage them to start a group chat, keep their notifications on and turn up their phone volume so they don’t miss calls or texts from the group.

3. Make choices that are right for them

Whether your student chooses to drink or use other substances or not, you should encourage them to make choices that feel right for them. This could include saying no to a large party or gathering, heading home earlier than their friends or choosing an alternative activity.

If your student is planning to drink or use substances, encourage them to look out for their friends and keep each other accountable. Remind them that everyone has a different tolerance and limit, so it’s important to go at their own pace, regardless of what everyone else is doing. It can also be helpful to encourage your student to set a limit before they go out.

Here are some potential limits for your student to consider.

Limiting the number of drinks they have on a single night.
Sticking to one type of alcohol.
Not mixing alcohol and other substances.
Avoid drinking premixed beverages. Instead, opt for unopened drinks.
Alternating between alcoholic beverages and water or other non-alcoholic options.
Eating dinner before going out.

4. Know their no

If your student finds themselves facing peer pressure or uncomfortable situations at a party, help them identify ways to avoid unwanted outcomes.

Here are some strategies they can use.

Fill their cup with water to avoid unwanted refills.
Let their friends know when they’re ready to leave, and ask them to make sure your student gets home safely.
If someone at a party is making your student feel uncomfortable, encourage them to enlist the help of friends to get out of sketchy situations.
Keep track of how many drinks they have had based on standard serving sizes (1.5 ounces of hard liquor, 5 ounces of wine or 12 ounces of beer each count as one drink).

It may also be helpful to remind your student that it’s okay to choose not to drink. In fact, 93% of CU Boulder students surveyed support not drinking at parties.

5. Be an effective bystander

Friends and bystanders play an important role when someone is vulnerable due to their level of intoxication, or if a person has been intentionally incapacitated by drugs or alcohol. This is because people who are impaired or incapacitated are unable to advocate for and protect themselves.

Encourage your student to look out for their friends and strangers at parties or other events. If they notice something that feels ‘off,’ it probably is. They can help intervene on someone’s behalf by:

Being direct. In some situations, your student may directly approach a person who may need help to ask them how they’re doing, what they may need and if they’d like assistance.
Relocating. In some situations, it may be more comfortable to not be direct. If this is the case, your student can help by pulling someone out of a situation. For instance, if they notice someone is uncomfortable with a person hitting on them, they can pretend to be friends and invite that person to go with them to a different area before checking in with them.
Enlisting others. Sometimes the best strategy is to alert others to a sketchy situation. This can include asking friends or other bystanders to help your student resolve a situation or help someone in need.

Learn more about bystander intervention

6. Follow ordinances

Help your student avoid citations and other penalties by making sure they understand local, state and university ordinances.

Some of the most common citations include:

Alcohol: Your student can receive a ticket for serving alcohol to a minor (even unknowingly) or if guests at their party are drinking in a public area, such as the sidewalk in front of their property.
Fireworks: The use and possession of any fireworks is illegal in the City of Boulder and Boulder County. This includes sparklers, snaps, snakes, bottle rockets, roman candles and smoke bombs. Keep in mind that fireworks pose a significant fire hazard and your student can be held responsible for fireworks used by roommates or guests on their property.
Noise: In the City of Boulder, people may be ticketed for unreasonable noise. This includes any amplified sound, such as speakers, that can be heard from a distance. Daytime limits from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. include noises that can be heard from more than 200 feet away. Nighttime limits from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. include noises that can be heard from more than 100 feet away.
Nuisance tickets: A nuisance ticket is issued when a residence hosts a gathering that violates any Boulder ordinances, including noise, underage drinking, brawling, public urination or littering. Remind your student that if they are hosting a gathering, they can be held responsible for the actions of guests, including behaviors that warrant a nuisance ticket.

7. Be aware of overdose risks

Drinking too much and experimenting with substances can lead to alcohol poisoning or accidental overdoses.

Mixing substances: Encourage your student to avoid mixing drugs with alcohol, including prescription medications. Taking more than one substance at a time can increase their risk of passing out, blacking out, feeling sick, doing something they may regret later and accidentally overdosing.

Accepting drugs from friends: Counterfeit prescriptions and illicit drugs can contain lethal amounts of fentanyl, an opioid that is more powerful than heroin and morphine. This includes things like Xanax, Oxycontin, MDMA, cocaine and more. Make sure your student is prepared to respond to a potential overdose at a party or gathering by bringing naloxone. This nasal spray is FDA-approved to temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. Students can pick up free naloxone and fentanyl test strips from Health Promotion on the third floor of Wardenburg Health Center.

Make sure your student is prepared to call for help if they notice someone who is:

Passed out or unresponsive
Breathing slowly or not at all
Vomiting while passed out
Pooping or peeing involuntarily
Pale, bluish, cool or clammy
Making gurgling, wheezing or snoring sounds

CU Boulder and Colorado Police have policies in place that can protect students from sanctions when they call 911 in an alcohol- or drug-related emergency.

Connect with resources

Party registration

If your student or their roommates plan to host a party, they are encouraged to register their gathering with Off-Campus Housing & Neighborhood Relations. This provides students with the opportunity to receive a warning for noise complaints and other ordinances before officers intervene.

Party smart tips

Knowing how to party smart can help keep your student and their friends safe. That’s why we provide harm reduction tips related to alcohol, fentanyl, marijuana, study drugs, vaping and more. Students can also review information on how to respond to an overdose, as well as protective policies like the Colorado 911 Good Samaritan Law and the CU Boulder Amnesty Policy.

Collegiate Recovery Community (CUCRC)

The CUCRC provides community support and connection for students, faculty and staff in recovery or seeking recovery from a wide range of behaviors, including substance use.

Early intervention workshops

Our workshops provide an opportunity for individuals and small groups to gain a better understanding of their relationship with substances and gain the skills and support for behavior change.

While we expect our students to follow applicable laws and policies related to alcohol and other drugs, we understand that some students may still choose to drink or use substances. Here are some tips you can share with your student to keep them safe at St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.

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6 tips for talking to kids about war

Anonymous — Tue, 14 Nov 2023 20:30:24 +0000

6 tips for talking to kids about war Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 11/14/2023 - 13:30

Ongoing violence, war and the media coverage that ensues can leave many of us feeling overwhelmed. When thinking about these events, it’s important to remember that they can affect people of all ages, including children and young adults. Talking to your children about war and how it may impact them can provide an opportunity to help them effectively navigate concerns and distressing emotions.

Here are some tips to help you get the conversation started.

1. Ask questions

Sometimes, the best way to broach difficult subjects is to ask open-ended questions. This strategy can help us gauge what our children know about a particular subject and how they feel about it. Keep in mind that children may not always know how they’re feeling, or they may be experiencing a range of emotions all at once, which can be hard for some children to decipher.

Here are a few questions that can be helpful to ask when discussing war:

I know [event or conflict] has been on the news a lot recently. How do you feel about what is happening?
Can you tell me what you know about the [event or conflict]?
Are people talking about this at school? What kinds of things have you heard about it?
Are there things that you’ve heard or seen that make you feel upset or worried? Can you tell me more about that?
Do you feel like you need a break from seeing or hearing about it?
Do you have any questions about [event or conflict] that I can help answer?

When asking questions, it’s also important to listen to your child without passing judgment. This allows them to share more openly, and you can gain a better sense of where to take the conversation next.

2. Acknowledge and validate their feelings

After you’ve had a chance to discuss your child’s perspective, it’s important to acknowledge and validate what they’ve shared. Here are some examples of how you can validate your child’s experiences:

Your child feels overwhelmed by the amount of news coverage or graphic images they are seeing. "The amount of news you’re seeing sounds overwhelming and I can see why that may be upsetting. We can take a break from talking about it or watching it on the news as a family.”
Your child has family in the region or armed forces. “It can be scary not to know how [person] is doing. I am here to answer questions and support you as we wait for more information.”
Your child doesn’t understand why these things are happening. “[Countries] have a long and complex history. I understand why you feel confused and upset. I’m here to help answer questions you may have about what is going on, and we can look into it together if you would like.”

3. Be mindful of misconceptions

Like anyone, children may be exposed to misinformation, the influence of others and conflicting opinions. Take some time to help clear up misconceptions they may have and be mindful of how your own bias may influence how you view these types of events. It’s also important to be mindful of how you talk about events with other adults when children are around.

Try to lead conversations about war and other conflicts from a perspective of compassion rather than stigma. Regardless of how you or your child may feel about the countries involved in a particular conflict, it’s important to remember that wars are often driven by government and military leaders, not everyday people. If your child is in middle school or older, you may want to begin to explore subjects like empathy, disputes, animosity or hurtful perspectives. One way to introduce these topics is to focus on the ‘helpers,’ like aid workers or others who are trying to help everyday people who have been impacted.

You can also use this time to discuss if there is something you as a family may want to collectively support or do more research about. For instance, you may consider learning more about the history of a region or looking into credible charities that provide aid to different areas.

4. Stay calm

Sometimes when we’re passionate about a topic, it can bring up a lot of feelings that may lead to increased feelings of distress among children. Learning how to notice and manage our emotions can help keep things from escalating. Be mindful of your tone and demeanor, and be aware of how you’re showing up in the conversation. It’s important to remember that in times of distress, children often look to their parents, relatives and other trusted adults for guidance, support, reassurance and stability. If you find yourself getting worked up, try to pause, take a deep breath and remember that being supportive is more important than being right about an issue.

5. Take personal circumstances into account

If family or friends have been directly impacted by a conflict, take that into account when talking with your child. For instance, if your child has relatives who are living in affected regions or who are members of deployed armed forces, their feelings of distress or worry may be elevated.

Additionally, if your family is from an area that has been affected by a conflict, your child or other family members may be exposed to verbal aggression, hate crimes and other threats, both online and in person. If you’re concerned that your child may be impacted by these types of scenarios, take some time to discuss safety for themselves, family and friends, both at home and abroad. If they experience any verbal harassment, aggression or hateful interactions, instruct them to talk with a trusted adult right away.

6. Provide ongoing support

Wrap up the conversation or a portion of the conversation by summarizing to review what you discussed. Keep in mind that this may be a topic that requires ongoing effort and support. At the end of the conversation, let your child know that you appreciate their willingness to share with you. If you feel like you need to revisit this down the road, let them know that you would like to follow up at a later time.

Resources

If you or your child are feeling distressed about current events, conflicts or wars, there are resources that can help.

Faculty and Staff Assistance Program (FSAP)

FSAP provides free mental health services for all CU Boulder staff and faculty, including brief individual or couples counseling, community referrals, workshops and more.

AcademicLiveCare

AcademicLiveCare is a free telehealth platform that allows staff and faculty to schedule medical and mental health appointments virtually. This is a great option for staff and faculty who are traveling out of state or who want evening, weekend or after-hours support.

The Real Help Hotline

This hotline provides access to professional counselors who can offer assistance finding local resources as well as immediate crisis counseling. This program is free, confidential and available to all employees 24/7 by calling 833-533-2428 or texting “TALK” to 38255.

Office of Victim Assistance (OVA)

OVA provides free and confidential information, consultation, support, advocacy and short-term, trauma-focused counseling services for those who have experienced and/or witnessed a traumatic or disturbing event. They also provide support for loved ones who are supporting another person through a traumatic experience.

Ongoing violence, war and the media coverage that ensues can leave many of us feeling overwhelmed. Here are some tips to help you talk to your children of all ages about war and how it may be affecting them.

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A Boulder and beyond bucket list of must-do summer adventures for students

Anonymous — Thu, 06 Jul 2023 18:45:32 +0000

A Boulder and beyond bucket list of must-do summer adventures for students Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 07/06/2023 - 12:45

Summer is here and the mountains are calling, but there’s so much more to do in Colorado, even if your student is just staying put in Boulder. Here’s our list of the quintessential, must-do adventures in Boulder County and a few beyond to share with your student this summer.

Tube the Boulder Creek

Tubing the Boulder Creek through town is a rite of passage for all who call Boulder and the surrounding area home. With a little preparation, proper equipment and a plan for where to put in and get out, a summer float through Boulder can be a perfect way to spend a few hours. The Outdoor Pursuits office at The Rec features an equipment rental center and rents tubes, helmets and life jackets for daily or multi-day use, and they’re open every day in the summer. For more information on how to enter and exit the creek, check out this beginner’s guide.

Celebrate the 4th at Ralphie’s Independence Day Blast

Is your student staying in town for the 4th of July this year? Let them know they can celebrate at Folsom Field with live music, activities and a fire-proof night sky drone show in place of traditional fireworks.

Eat hyperlocal

Outdoor, seasonal farm dinners grew dramatically in popularity during the pandemic, but these farm–to-table dining experiences are here to stay! Diners eat beside the gardens that produced their meal and are usually visited by not only the featured chef that evening but also the farm’s resident animals. If you’ll be visiting Boulder this summer and would like to try and unique dining experience, check out the line up of farm dinners from some of our favorite chefs and locales including Whistling Boar, Black Cat Farm and the Lyons Farmette.

Does your student crave a farm-to-table meal but can’t make it to the farm? There are many restaurants in Boulder just a short walk from campus that can satisfy the need for clean food. Consider checking out Wild Pastures Burger Co., Naked Lunch Colorado, Next Door Kitchen and Bar or one of the many restaurants owned by Three Leaf Farm.

They can also shop locally at farmer’s markets in Boulder, Louisville, Longmont, Lafayette and Lyons! Offering so much more than local harvests, your student can enjoy a meal, listen to music and enjoy the bounty of produce grown in Colorado. For a complete list of markets in the Boulder area, check out this online resource.

Pool hop through Boulder County

Some of the best public pools exist right here in Boulder County and can be enjoyed without breaking the bank. Encourage your student to start off with a dip right on CU Boulder’s campus in the Buff Pool because where else can one swim in a pool the shape of a buffalo? Access to the pool is free to all Buff OneCard holders on Welcome Wednesdays, June 7 through Aug. 2, 2023.

Once they’ve had their fill of the “Ralphie” pool, they can walk or ride over to Scott Carpenter Pool just off campus. This recently renovated pool is named after one of Boulder's most famous astronauts and features a lazy river, multiple slides, a splash pool and lap swimming.

Is your student a diver? Let them know they can check out the Boulder Elks Pool where the springboard and high dive await, the snack bar has the best treats and the manager is always open to requests as he finetunes the pool’s Spotify playlist.

Finally, let your student know they can catch the Eldo Shuttle to Eldorado Swimming Pool. This 100+ year old attraction is a swimming experience unlike any other! Tell them to pack hiking shoes, fishing poles or a mountain bike too because the pool is located just outside Eldorado Canyon State Park.

Attend the Colorado Shakespeare Festival

The Colorado Shakespeare Festival is known for being ‘theater under the stars’ and is held annually on CU Boulder’s campus from June through August. There’s really no better way to see The Bard’s work than this. The 2023 lineup features five different plays and tickets can be purchased online.

Check out The Rec

Has your student considered trying the equipment and facilities, a fitness class or an instructional program at The Rec but hesitated to do so? This summer might be the best time to try it out. The Rec truly has something for everyone with state-of-the-art equipment, multiple pools and courts, a climbing gym, and a full line up of daily fitness classes and 4-8 week instructional programs. Access to the Rec’s facilities and general exercise equipment is free on Wednesdays from June 7 through Aug. 2, 2023 for all Buff OneCard holders if they’d like to check it out at no cost.

See a show at Red Rocks Amphitheater

Red Rocks Amphitheater is known as one of the best outdoor music venues in the world and is located just 40 minutes from Boulder. The venue attracts some of the best musical acts and comedians to its stage for unforgettable performances in an unforgettable setting. Early arrival is always encouraged to enjoy the Colorado Music Hall of Fame, explore the grounds and take in the views.

If a Red Rocks concert is beyond your student’s budget this summer, venues throughout Boulder County offer free and low-cost concerts to fill almost every night of the week. Check out some of our favorites including Chataqua’s summer concert series, Lyon’s Planet Bluegrass, Pearl Street’s Bands on the Bricks, Longmont’s summer concert series and Louisville’s Street Faire.

Ready for a road trip? Visit a National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is the closest option to Boulder. Rocky Mountain National Park's 415 square miles (265,807 acres) encompass a spectacular range of mountain environments and cross the Continental Divide. Be sure to encourage your student to plan ahead though, timed entry reservations are required between May 26 and Oct. 22.

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is located just four hours south of Boulder makes one feel as though they’ve been transported to another planet. Pack goggles, rent a board from one of the many shops right outside the park and enjoy a day sledding down the tallest sand dunes in North America. In May and June one can splash (and sometimes float) in the Medano Creek which travels right through the park and creates a unique beach experience unlike any seen before. Visit the park’s website for the latest information on conditions in the park before heading out.

If your student is up for a longer drive, there are two additional parks located towards the southwest corner of the state. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, located about five hours away near Montrose, is often referred to as the Grand Canyon of Colorado. This park exposes visitors to some of the steepest cliffs, oldest rocks and roughest spires in North America. Mesa Verde National Park, located about seven hours from Boulder, is a World Heritage Site and International Dark Sky Park. The park honors the rich heritage and culture of the ancestral Pueblo people who formerly lived there and protects the historic cliff dwellings they built.

Summer is here, and there is so much to do in Colorado, even if your student is just staying put in Boulder. Here are some must-do summer activities in Boulder County and beyond to share with your student this summer.

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Tips for talking to students about gender and sexuality

Anonymous — Wed, 24 May 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Tips for talking to students about gender and sexuality Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 05/24/2023 - 00:00

We are excited to celebrate our LGBTQ+ communities during Pride Month in June. This can also be a great time to start a conversation with your student about gender and sexuality.

Students typically start figuring out who they are, who they are attracted to and how they want to express themselves during adolescence and young adulthood. Having a supportive and open family can make all the difference in a student’s academic performance, mental health, self-esteem and quality of life. In fact, families can play a key role in helping students navigate their identity in a positive and healthy way.

If you’re not sure how to broach the subject or need guidance on where to begin, these tips can help you make the most of your conversations.

Do your homework

Preparing for conversations in advance can make us feel more comfortable in the moment and help us avoid unintentional misunderstandings. Before you sit down with your student, try to do your homework first. Familiarize yourself with common terms and concepts related to sex, gender identity and sexual orientation.

Here are a few basics to help get you started:

What is sex?

Sex typically refers to our sex assigned at birth based on one’s genitalia, reproductive anatomy or chromosome makeup. While sex can describe terms like “male” and “female,” it’s important to remember that some people are born “intersex,” meaning that they may have both male and female anatomy or ambiguous anatomy.

What is gender?

Gender represents the societal construct of norms and expectations related to sex. While gender is often viewed as a binary with only two choices (man or woman), many people have a more complex relationship with their gender or feel that their experiences do not conform to any single gender group.

What is sexuality?

Sexuality (also known as sexual orientation) refers to a person’s romantic, sexual or emotional attraction to others. Individuals may be attracted to the same gender, another gender, all genders, or they may not experience sexual or romantic attraction at all. Common terms that describe sexuality include gay, lesbian, straight, asexual and bisexual, though there are many others.

Youth.gov is a great resource if you would like to brush up on additional terms related to gender identity, gender expression and sexual orientation. It’s also important to keep in mind that some terms used in the past may be improper or outdated to use now. Take some time to ensure you’re using the proper terminology and allow your student to correct you if they are uncomfortable with a specific term.

While preparing in advance can help us kick off the conversation, it’s also okay if you don’t know or understand everything you read. Don’t be afraid to be honest with yourself and your student about the things you don’t know or don’t understand. In fact, being open and curious can provide you with more opportunities to engage your student, ask questions and learn about how they view or experience these topics in their life.

Additional tip: Reflect on your own views

The way we see gender and sexuality may be different from our student’s views. Take some time to evaluate and reflect on your own views. Keep in mind that our perspecitve is often shaped by religion, cultural outlooks, upbringing or other experiences. Ask yourself how these have shaped your perceptions and how they may differ from your student.

Take your time

While Pride Month is a great opportunity to start the conversation with your student, it’s also important to look for other opportunities throughout the year to engage with them and discuss important topics related to their experiences and identity. Similarly, don’t worry about having one big conversation with your student. Instead, focus on ways that you can break it up into multiple conversations that may feel less overwhelming. Remember, it’s also okay to start the conversation, take a break and come back to it another time if needed.

Approaching the topic

Forcing a conversation without permission can be off putting and feel invasive, especially for LGBTQ+ students. Instead, create emotional safety and look for natural opportunities to have a conversation. If a student discloses an identity to you, or talks about gender and sexuality, invite them to talk with you further. Let them know that you’d be open to discussing gender and sexuality, and that you have interest in knowing them as a person. Be mindful of your own identities and assumptions. Take some time to determine if having this conversation would be in service of and helpful for your student. Many of these conversations happen informally, between scheduled events. For instance, you can chat over coffee, go for a short walk or talk over a meal. However, if your student prefers, you can schedule a time and space to talk further.

Ask open-ended questions

Asking open-ended questions can help you better understand your student’s views, opinions and experiences. It also gives you both an opportunity to deepen the conversation, ask follow-up questions and share your perspectives.

Here are a few example questions that you can ask your student:

Are there any terms or combinations of terms that you identify with more when you think about your own identity? (e.g. male, female, nonbinary, agender, gay, lesbian, bisexual, straight, etc.)
Tell me about your experience in this identity. What has been stressful and what has gone well?
Where are you at in sharing this identity with other people?
What is it like to be at CU with this identity?
Is there anything I can do to help you feel more supported and comfortable in your identity?

Listen without judgment

Allow your student to speak and share their personal experiences or opinions without judgment. If you’re uncertain about something, ask follow-up questions to get a better understanding of what your student is saying. Try to avoid formulating a response while they’re speaking or interrupting them before they’re finished. Approaching the conversation with genuine curiosity and willingness to listen can help you both understand each other better.

Lean in

If your student opens up to you about a piece of their identity, lean into the moment. Let them know that you support them and appreciate their vulnerability in sharing this piece of their life with you. If your student isn’t comfortable opening up, let them know that you support them and you will be there for them if they ever need someone to talk to. Keep in mind that the conversation doesn’t have to go perfectly to be meaningful. Give yourself and your student grace when discussing potentially sensitive topics. The most important thing is to let your student know that you love them and are there for them.

Offer support

If your student is struggling or wants to explore their gender and sexuality more, there are support resources available on campus.

Pride Office
The CU Boulder Pride Office helps LGBTQ+ students, staff and faculty find belonging and community at CU. They strive to empower LGBTQ+ people to embody their identities with pride and celebrate their experiences as part of the greater LGBTQ+ community.

Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS)
CAPS offers confidential mental health services for students, including:

Letters of support and documentation required for transition, including hormone therapy and surgery.
Workshops that provide an inclusive and affirming space for students to explore their identity.
Therapy groups where students can talk through their experiences with peers.
Confidential consultations related sex, gender and sexual orientation.

Medical Services
Recognized as a Top Performer for LGBTQ+ Health Care by the Human Rights Campaign, Medical Services provides comprehensive and affirming medical care for LGBTQ+ students, including:

Sexual and reproductive health services
Hormone therapy
Post-operative and post-surgical care
Interdisciplinary TransCare team
Insurance coverage for LGBTQ+ services, including hormone therapy and surgery

Office of Victim Assistance (OVA)
OVA works to create a safer, more socially just and supportive campus community by providing culturally relevant trauma response and prevention services. OVA provides free and confidential information, consultation, support, advocacy and short term counseling services to �� students, graduate students, faculty and staff who have experienced a traumatic, disturbing or life disruptive event.

Don't Ignore It
Don’t Ignore It is a web resource that provides options for seeking confidential support on and off campus, skills for helping others and reporting options related to sexual misconduct, harassment and discrimination.

Recreation Services
The Rec Center provides an inclusive and welcoming community for students to stay active and build community. They offer LGBTQ+ services and opportunities, including:

Gender neutral locker rooms
Inclusive Rec programs and events that cater to a wide range of intersectional identities
Adaptive Sports and Recreation programs that provide inclusive events for students with disabilities

Students often figure out who they are, who they're attracted to and how they want to express themselves in college. Here are some tips to help you start the conversation around gender and sexuality with your student.

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6 tips for coping with climate anxiety

Anonymous — Thu, 18 May 2023 19:14:33 +0000

6 tips for coping with climate anxiety Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 05/18/2023 - 13:14

Climate change has led to more frequent and extreme weather events, including floods, storms, droughts and wildfires. As we continue to live through and witness these events, many people are more likely to be exposed to traumatic incidents, such as destruction, loss of communities, serious injury or death. As a result, many people may start to experience higher levels of distress and anxiety.

Here are some tips you can use to help your student cope with climate anxiety.

What is climate anxiety?

Climate anxiety, also referred to as eco-anxiety, refers to distressing feelings related to the impacts of climate change. This type of distress is often rooted in feelings of uncertainty, lack of control and concerns over well-being or safety. Unlike other stressors, which are often personal, climate change can be more universal, chronic and often intangible. Because of this, climate anxiety has the potential to impact a large number of people. In fact, according to a survey by the American Psychological Association, more than two-thirds of Americans experience some form of climate anxiety.

How can climate change impact mental health?

Climate change can elicit a variety of emotions including grief, anger, shame, loss, guilt, hopelessness and fatigue, among others. These feelings can stem from a number of factors including direct impacts (e.g. loss of housing or livelihood), vicarious experiences around the globe or distress related to future or existential threats.

Learning how to cope with climate anxiety can help us:

Sit with our feelings and the issues facing us
Avoid becoming overwhelmed by our feelings
Avoid burnout or fatigue
Continue to function and find joy in our everyday lives
Stay engaged in climate action
Instill hope for the future

Here are some tactics that your student can use to develop healthy coping skills around climate change.

1. Focusing on what is in their control

Climate change is a complex issue. That’s why it’s important to remind your student that climate change cannot be solved by any one person, organization or government on their own. While this may feel disheartening, it can provide us with the opportunity to remind our students to focus more on what is within their control rather than what isn’t.

Here are some examples of things that are within your student’s control:

Participating in climate change initiatives
Writing or calling legislators to encourage them to take action
Building more sustainable habits around energy use, composting, recycling, consumerism, etc.
Selecting food options that have less environmental impact (e.g. reducing the amount of meat they consume each week, growing your own vegetables, etc.)
Changing the way they commute to campus
Engaging family and friends in meaningful conversations about climate change
Donating to organizations or causes they care about

No matter how your student chooses to take action, it’s also important to remind them that they play a small part in a larger puzzle. For instance, if they are concerned about water conservation, it may be helpful to remind them that 80% of the Colorado River Basin is used for agriculture. Encourage them to avoid being hard on themselves over the occasional long shower or brushing their teeth with the faucet on. Instead, help them to view their actions as a way for them to practice the habits that we will all need to develop in order to create a more sustainable future.

2. Avoiding overload

Working on too many climate projects or advocating for too many causes can be unwieldy and is more likely to lead to burn out. Encourage your student to narrow their focus, energy and efforts towards projects and issues that mean the most to them. For instance, your student may choose to rally around greenhouse gasses, sustainable agricultural practices or water conservation. Focusing on a select number of issues can help them reduce overall stress, find balance and maintain gusto.

As your student chooses what issues to engage in, it’s also important to remind them to let go of the urge to say yes to everyone and everything. Instead, help them to prioritize activities that they feel are most meaningful for them. This could mean that they choose to participate in a rally or march, but decline to be one of the main organizers for the event. Similarly they may choose to call specific representatives to encourage them to take action on certain bills rather than trying to reach every possible person.

3. Practicing compassion

Remind your student that whenever we approach painful situations or emotions, it’s important to do so with kindness and compassion for themselves and others. For instance, it may not always be feasible to recycle every item that they can. Beating themselves up about it or worrying that they could be doing more can actually fuel more emotional turmoil, which can be particularly unhelpful as they try to move forward.

Instead, remind your student to take care of their own mental health and encourage them to sit with painful emotions in a non-judgmental way. Helping them to acknowledge and name the specific emotions they’re experiencing can help. Encourage your student to name and clarify what they’re feeling, especially if they’re experiencing a variety of emotions all at once.

It can also be helpful to practice validating their feelings with affirmations like:

‘It’s okay that you feel stressed about climate change.’
‘You can make a difference, and big changes are going to take time.’
‘You can take a break. This issue is important to you, and so is your mental well-being.’

4. Taking a break from climate news

Following climate-driven accounts or scrolling through social and news posts about climate change all the time can impact your student’s mental health. If you notice that they start to feel overwhelmed by news updates or events happening around the world, it may be a good time to encourage them to take a break. If they’re feeling pressured to stay informed, remind them that all of those news stories, updates and information will be there when they return. It’s also important to remind them that even if they step away for a few hours, days or weeks, it won’t change what happens, and they don’t need to be plugged in 24/7.

Encourage your student to take a break by:

Engaging in other activities or hobbies they love
Catching up with friends or family (without climate change as a topic of conversation)
Turning off their news feed or muting accounts for a while
Spending time in nature by walking, hiking, bird watching or other outdoor activities
Taking a day off to practice self-care
Enjoying time with a supportive community

5. Remembering they're not alone

It’s easy to get caught up in all of the ‘bad’ news surrounding climate change, but it’s also important to remind your student that there are a lot of people working to solve this issue and positive change can and will happen. Finding a community of people who understand how your student feels and what they’re passionate about can help them feel more supported, connected and encouraged to continue to take action. Connecting with others can also help your student cultivate a sense of hope for the future. Having hope and seeing that others believe change can happen is necessary to carry on the work that needs to be done. That’s why it’s important to encourage your student to connect with other students, friends or organizations where they feel supported.

6. Talking to someone

Climate anxiety is a very real experience, and it’s not something your student has to go through alone. If you notice that their feelings are starting to affect their life or ability to cope day-to-day, encourage them to talk to someone. Reaching out to a friend, family member or counselor can help them work through their feelings and practice coping skills.

Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS)

CAPS is the primary mental health resource on campus for undergraduate and graduate students. They offer brief individual therapy, workshops, drop-in consultations and more.

Environmental Center

The Environmental Center helps students develop knowledge, leadership skills and connections with peers and experts to make a positive impact at CU and beyond. Check out their website for ways to get involved in environmental and climate justice projects.

AcademicLiveCare

All students can attend mental health and psychiatry appointments for free through AcademicLiveCare in order to address a variety of issues including anxiety related to climate change.

Good Grief Network

The Good Grief Network is a non-profit organization that runs peer-to-peer support groups that help bring people together to recognize, feel, and process their heavy emotions, so that these emotions can be transformed into meaningful action.

Britt Wray: Climate Change TedTalk

In this short TedTalk, researcher Britt Wray explores how climate change is impacting our well-being (mental, social and spiritual) and offers a starting point for what we can do about it.

Climate change has led to more frequent and extreme weather events, including floods, storms, droughts and wildfires. Here are some tips you can use to help your student cope with climate anxiety.

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6 things to do before your student comes home for break

Anonymous — Tue, 09 May 2023 06:00:00 +0000

6 things to do before your student comes home for break Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 05/09/2023 - 00:00

Summer break can be a great time to reconnect with your student. College is often a time when students are able to practice independence, and they may need support readjusting to life at home with their family. If your student is returning home for the summer, here are a few things you can do to help them prepare for their visit home.

1. Give them a heads up about changes at home

Has a sibling moved into your student’s room? Is there a new pet in the family? Are there any other changes that may surprise your student? Prepare them for any changes at home by letting them know about it before they arrive.

2. Review expectations

After spending time away from home in college, your student may not know what is expected of them at home when they return or may not be in the habit of being accountable to others. One way to avoid conflict or misunderstandings is to share your expectations with them before they come home. Consider letting them know what you expect of them when it comes to laundry, dishes, household chores, time at home, curfews, etc.

It’s also a good idea to discuss family plans with your student and ask about their plans over break. Talk about how often you’d like to spend time together, and be prepared for resistance. Remember, many students are used to living independently and may have different ideas about how much time they’d like to spend at home. Consider planning a family night together with some of your shared favorite activities. This can be a good way to spend quality time together and catch up. It’s also okay if your student wants some time to themselves, and it’s sometimes necessary to help them decompress from school.

3. Get to know your student again

While your student may not have been away from home for that long, they are used to living on their own and may have new habits or views that impact your time together. Take some time to get to know your student again as an adult. Ask open-ended questions about the past year at school, what they’ve enjoyed most so far, who they will miss and what they might like to do in their free time.

Keep in mind that some students may be struggling more than others. This can be a good time to determine if your student needs additional support with academics, mental health, socializing, substance use or other concerns.

4. Make time for important conversations

Your student may need to have important conversations with you, especially if things have not been going well this semester. Here are some things you can do to have a healthy and productive conversation with your student, even when tough topics come up:

Allow your student to share their view point without interrupting.
Listen to your student without offering judgment or advice.
Ask follow-up questions if you’re not sure you understand what your student is saying or if you think you may have missed something important.
When sharing your point of view, speak from your own experience and perspective.
Try to give your student grace and see things from their perspective rather than making assumptions.
When an agreement is not possible, allow space for multiple truths.

Free parent handbook

Talking to our students about alcohol and drug use can help them clarify what choices are right for them. This free handbook providers information, tips and resources to help you have an effective conversation about alcohol and other drugs with your student.

Download a free copy of the Talking with College Students �� Alcohol Handbook

5. Reach out for help

If you’re concerned about your student, there are support resources available to help.

Student Support and Case Management (SSCM) is available to provide individualized support to students. SSCM case managers connect students with campus partners, community resources and support systems, while also building a trusting relationship and coaching them toward self-advocacy.

SSCM supports students with varying extenuating circumstances, needs or personal life events that may impact their educational career. Some of the more common reasons to refer a student to SSCM include, but are not limited to:

Concern for a student’s mental health
Hospitalization (physical or mental health)
Suicidal ideation
Harm to self or others
Loss of a loved one
Family emergency
Threatening behavior

Anyone can refer a student to the department by filling out the online referral form. Additional information on referring a student can also be found on the SSCM website.

It’s okay to be unsure if the student needs help. The severity of a student’s distress may be unclear, or you may be concerned about a student and don’t know how to move forward. The best way to help those students is by consulting them about the situation and referring them.

BONUS TIP: Schedule check-ups

If possible, consider scheduling doctor or dentist appointments while your student is home for break. This ensures they'll be ready to come back to campus (and won't forget routine care).

If your student is returning home for the summer, here are a few things you can do to help your student prepare for their time at home.

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Tips for talking to students about sexual assault

Anonymous — Wed, 12 Apr 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Tips for talking to students about sexual assault Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 04/12/2023 - 00:00

Sexual assault disproportionately impacts young adults and can have a major impact on students at CU. Families play an important role in helping students navigate healthy relationships and providing support.

Here are a few things everyone should know about sexual assault and tips for starting a conversation with your student.

Things to know about sexual assault

Sexual assault can happen to anyone

The reality is that the majority of sexual assaults are carried out by people students know: friends, acquaintances, classmates, co-workers, partners, exes, neighbors or someone a student may have met online or at a party. This often contradicts what we believe and can make it more difficult to recognize the problem.

It can be helpful to go beyond ‘stranger danger’ and help your student think about social events like parties and residential spaces that may also create risk. Consider your approach and avoid sharing things that put the burden on victims to prevent sexual assault or blame them for having been assaulted. It’s important to know that sexual assault can happen to anyone, regardless of age, race, gender identity or sexual orientation. However, it disproportionately affects women, bisexual and transgender people and young adults.

Consent is key

People often think that consent is something that you "get" or "give" in a sexual situation. Consent is more of an agreement that people arrive at together. Consent can include words or actions (non-verbals and body language) that create mutual understanding, clear willingness and acceptance of the conditions of any sexual activity.

Consent must be established before people engage in any sexual activity. This gives students the opportunity to set personal boundaries and limits and understand the boundaries of others. Keep in mind that consent is ongoing, and people can change their minds and withdraw consent at any time during sexual activities. It’s important to talk to your student about how to stay tuned in to a partner’s experience.

It’s also important to know that anyone who is incapacitated by alcohol, drugs or anything else cannot give consent, regardless of what they are saying or doing. Incapacitation is a state where someone can not make a reasonable, rational decision because they lack the capacity to understand the “who, what, where, when or why” of a sexual interaction.

Learn more about consent

Sexual assault can include a wide range of experiences

Sexual assault includes any unwanted sexual contact or behaviors that a person did not or was not able to consent to.

Sexual assault can include, but is not limited to, the following:

Unwanted penetration or contact, including vaginal, anal or oral sex (this includes penetration by an object or another person’s body part)
Unwanted touching of private body parts (e.g. butt, breasts, genitals)

Keep in mind that sexual assault can also include attempted assault using any of the methods listed above. Additional forms of sexual misconduct include sexual harassment, exploitation (e.g. sharing nudes, videotaping sexual acts without consent, etc.) as well as intimate partner abuse such as dating violence and stalking.

Learn more about sexual misconduct at CU Boulder

Tips for talking to your student

While sexual assault can be a difficult subject to broach, having conversations can help your student identify problematic situations, support their friends and navigate relationships in a healthy way. Here are some tips to help you talk with your student about sexual assault and other forms of sexual misconduct.

Weave it into routine conversations.

Look for opportunities to discuss sex, gender scripts, dating and healthy communication as part of your everyday interactions. For instance, when checking in with your student, it’s okay to be curious about their new friends and relationships. If they open up, encourage them to explore their own beliefs and values about what they want from potential partners and their dating experiences.

Explore red flags together.

Encourage your student to think through red flags for sexual assault and abuse in a relationship. Red flags can include someone committing boundary violations, not listening to others, being persistent about pursuing someone sexually, hitting on the drunkest person at a party or trying to get someone alone or away from their friends at a party. Remind your student that most people understand boundaries and consent, but some people aren’t interested in honoring them.

Learn more about drug-facilitated sexual assault

Encourage your student to look out for friends.

If something feels weird or wrong, it probably is. If your student sees a situation where someone seems uncomfortable or unsafe, encourage them to find a way to check on that person or get them out of the situation. Remind your student that it’s okay to make up an excuse to interject or disrupt an uncomfortable or problematic situation. Bystanders are particularly important in situations where someone is being pursued sexually because of their level of intoxication, or if a person has been intentionally drugged in an attempt to facilitate sexual assault. Remind your student that impaired or incapacitated people are usually unable to protect or advocate for themselves in these situations. Learn more about bystander strategies that students can use to interrupt problematic situations.

Practice effective bystander skills.

Encourage your student to practice effective bystander skills to disrupt potentially sketchy situations. Bystanders are particularly important in situations where someone is being targeted by a perpetrator because of their level of intoxication, or if a person has been intentionally drugged in an attempt to facilitate sexual assault. Remind your student that impaired or incapacitated people are usually unable to protect or advocate for themselves in these situations. Learn more about bystander strategies that students can use to interrupt problematic situations.

Share support resources.

Resources are available for students who have experienced sexual assault, who want to support friends and survivors or who to learn more about sexual assault prevention. Students often go to friends first if something bad happens, and they may reach out to family members as well. Having the skills to respond effectively without blame or judgment is important to keep in mind. Learn more skills for supporting students in the aftermath of a traumatic event.

Here are some additional ways you can connect students with support services:

Office of Victim Assistance (OVA)

OVA provides free and confidential information, consultation, support, advocacy and short-term, trauma-focused counseling services for students, grad students, faculty and staff who have experienced a traumatic, disturbing or life-disruptive event, including sexual assault and harassment.

Confidential resource

Office of Institutional Equity and Compliance (OIEC)

OIEC implements and enforces university policies around sexual assault, intimate partner abuse and stalking, and other forms of sexual misconduct. If you or someone you know at CU has been impacted, reports can be filed online. Anonymous reporting is an option as well.

Don't Ignore It

Explore your options for seeking confidential support, reporting concerns and learning skills for helping others. If something seems off, it probably is—don't ignore it.

Mandatory reporting policy

All university employees who have the authority to hire, promote, discipline, evaluate, grade, formally advise or direct faculty, staff or students are considered "responsible employees" and are required to report alleged misconduct to the Office of Institutional Equity and Compliance (OIEC). This includes resident advisors, teaching assistants, professors, graduate instructors, academic advisors, coaches or other university employees with oversight authority.

Any sexual misconduct, intimate partner abuse (including dating and domestic violence), stalking, protected-class discrimination or harassment, or related retaliation disclosed to a responsible employee must be reported to OIEC. The person impacted has the choice about whether and how they want to proceed. Reporting is required to help ensure that people understand their rights and options and the resources available.

Note: Confidential campus resources are exempt from CU Boulder’s mandatory reporting policy, including the Office of Victim Assistance (OVA), Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS), Faculty and Staff Assistance Program (FSAP) and Ombuds.

Learn more about mandatory reporting

Additional reading

Health and Wellness Services is committed to providing families with relevant information and tips to help you best support your students. Check out more family articles online.

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7 spring cleaning tips for families and students

Anonymous — Wed, 29 Mar 2023 16:45:03 +0000

7 spring cleaning tips for families and students Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 03/29/2023 - 10:45

Spring can be a great time to reduce clutter, start fresh and say goodbye to all of the things in your home that may be weighing you down. In fact, spring cleaning can have a variety of positive effects on your mood, mental health and overall well-being.

Here are 7 tips to help you kickoff the spring season!

Why spring cleaning matters

Do you ever feel stressed out by clutter? Research shows that cluttered spaces can bombard our brains with unnecessary stimuli, which can cause us to feel more stressed or anxious. This is because our brains naturally want to categorize and sort objects. If you’re surrounded by chronic clutter, your brain needs to work overtime to process this type of information, which may also explain why we become frustrated when we can’t find something easily.

It can be helpful to ask yourself these questions to determine if decluttering may be helpful for you:

Do you own things that you never use or no longer need, like clothes that don't fit or old electronics?
Do you have a "junk drawer" of things you think you'll need, but don't ever use?
Do you find yourself buying new items to replace ones you've lost in your house?
Do you lack access to certain spaces in your home (i.e. you can’t park in your garage or access areas in your basement)?
Do you worry about having houseguests over because of the state of your home?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, decluttering will likely have positive effects on your life. In fact, reducing clutter can lower cortisol (stress hormone) levels, improve your focus, allow you to enjoy your space more and help you focus on other tasks or obligations.

Keep reading to find out how to get started.

1. Clarify your vision

When starting any organizing projects, it’s important to clarify what you want to accomplish in your space and why. For instance, you may want to reduce stress, make it easier to find things, simplify your cleaning routine, reduce waste or prepare for your student to return home over the summer.

If you need help clarifying your goals, ask yourself these questions:

How do I want to feel after I’m done?
What are some benefits I’d like to see come from this?
What areas of my home could I change to create less stress or overwhelm?
What kind of home do I want to have (e.g. warm/inviting, clean/polished, minimalist/maximalist, etc.)?

Take some time to think through these questions and write out your answers or goals before continuing on to the next section.

2. Start small

Trying to tackle your entire home all at once can be daunting. Instead of trying to declutter, clean and organize everything all at once, take some time to identify areas you’d like to tackle first. Remember that little things can make a big difference when it comes to how your home makes you feel on a daily basis.

Consider creating a short list of the following:

Easy wins: Easy wins are areas or things that are relatively easy to tackle if you have limited time. This includes things like throwing away expired products, loading your dishwasher, wiping down your counters, relocating items to their proper room or location and cleaning out your nightstand. It can be helpful to think through tasks that you can complete in about 15 to 30 minutes.
Trouble spots: Trouble spots are spaces that cause you the most stress, anxiety or overwhelm. Tackling these spaces tends to take more time but can be critical to improving your mental health and well-being. Keep in mind that these tasks may take more than one session to complete, and it can be helpful to set a time limit to help break it up. 30 to 60 minutes is usually enough time to make a dent in trouble spots.

3. Reset your wardrobe

Seasonal changes are a great time to reset your wardrobe. As you transition from cozy winter sweaters to lighter spring apparel, take some time to cull your garment collection. It can be especially helpful to ditch any pieces that don't fit your current body or style.

While this can be a difficult or emotionally taxing process for some people, it can also be beneficial to your long-term stress levels and overall mental health. Surrounding ourselves with clothing that doesn’t suit us takes up valuable real estate in our closet, depletes our mental energy when getting dressed and can cause us to feel less satisfied with our bodies.

If you’re having difficulty deciding what items should go, ask yourself these questions:

Does this item reflect my authentic personal style?
Would I buy this item for full price today?
Would it impact my daily life not to have this item?
Is this item really worth the space it’s taking up in my closet?

Here are some ways you can break up your wardrobe reset into manageable tasks:

Store or relocate seasonal or occasion-specific items to make room for your spring and summer favorites
Choose one category of clothing to go through at a time (e.g. sweaters, jeans)
Set up a donation bin that you can easily use to collect items that no longer serve you
If you can’t commit to getting rid of all your ‘maybe one day’ clothing items, try to focus on reducing the number of these items you have overall

4. Deal with documents and digital clutter

While many of us would love to eliminate email clutter or get rid of the piles of papers in our homes, this process can be time consuming.

Digital clutter
Instead of trying to get rid of everything at once, break it up into time chunks. For instance, you can try setting a timer for 15 minutes and unsubscribe from pesky marketing emails clogging up your inbox. You may also consider using this time to remove any apps from your phone that you haven’t opened in months.

Physical papers
Similar to clearing out digital clutter, it can be helpful to set a timer to tackle physical paperwork that may be looming around your house. One way to do this is to create a designated ‘inbox’ to corral all of your mail, bills and other pieces of mail that come into your home. Spend 15 minutes each week to review your ‘inbox’ and prioritize time-sensitive items like bills or notices. You may also want to spend some time to create a system for storing important documents, forms and records so they don’t get lost or misplaced (hello, taxes).

5. Don’t forget the fridge

Clearing out your fridge can help you reduce food waste and figure out what types of foods you actually enjoy eating. To start, it’s usually best to take everything out of your fridge so you can wipe down the shelves and bins. However, if that feels too overwhelming, it’s also okay to clear items shelf by shelf.

Consider tossing anything that is expired, wilted or past its prime. As you start removing items, look at what you are getting rid of. Maybe you didn’t make it through a tub of yogurt or you have apples that have gone mushy in your fruit drawer. Use these insights to plan your future grocery shopping. For instance, you may consider buying individual cups of yogurt or reducing the number of produce products you buy each trip.

Once you’ve cleared your food clutter, try to sort items into categories such as fruits, vegetables, sauces, cheese, meat, leftovers and beverages. Organizing products by type can help you better see what you have on hand and make it easier to find what you need. This can reduce stress levels when preparing for meals or planning your grocery list.

6. Dealing with donations and unwanted items

Getting rid of unwanted items can be stressful, and it’s important to remember that it’s okay if you can’t donate everything you’ve cleaned out. However, if you do plan to donate or discard items in a sustainable way, here are some tips.

Sorting donations
Depending on your schedule, it may be helpful to collect a large amount of donations before dropping them off or you may prefer to get them out of your house quickly. No matter your preference, here are some tips to help you deal with unwanted items and donations.

Selling: If you’re interested in selling your items, you can host a garage sale or list them on a variety of platforms, including Facebook Marketplace, Mercari, Poshmark, ThredUp and more. If you choose to sell your items, take into account the amount of time it will take you to photograph your items, post them online and interact with potential buyers. You may find that it’s not worth the trouble for lower-value items. In this case, consider setting a price limit for which items you want to sell versus donate. For instance, you may decide that you’d only like to sell items that are worth $50 or more and donate anything under that threshold.
Gifting: Gifting items to friends and family can be a great way to give possessions a new life. Consider the types of items that your loved ones may need, and try to avoid overloading them with things that may become clutter in their own homes. If you’re not sure who to give an item to, consider joining a “Buy Nothing” group on Facebook. These groups allow you to post items and give them to various people in your residential area. Most groups allow pickups, so you don’t even have to leave the house to get rid of your stuff!
Donating: Donation centers like Arc and Goodwill are a popular way to get rid of items. However, it’s important to avoid donating items that are unusable. For instance, if you have broken electronics or clothing with holes and stains, it’s best to find an alternative way to dispose of these items, such as electronics and textile recycling programs. You can also use this as an opportunity to make an impact on your community by donating to causes you care about. For instance, many animal shelters accept donated towels and blankets for their dogs. Consider looking into organizations that are looking for donations in your area that you’d like to support.
Trash/recycling: While we may hate to admit it, some items just aren’t worth saving or re-homing. If this is the case, it’s okay to toss them in the trash, recycle or compost bin. If you have items that are difficult to get rid of, like sensitive documents or electronics, consider participating in events like community shredding or electronics collection days.

7. Maintain your space with closing tasks

Organizing our homes can be difficult, and keeping them that way presents additional challenges. Sometimes it’s best to think of maintenance as an act of future kindness. For instance, you may not want to put away the dishes at night, but recognizing it as an act of kindness for your future self can help you stay motivated to complete maintenance tasks. Similarly, you can create a list of ‘closing tasks’ that you do each night to reset your space before bed. Try to keep your list short and only dedicate 15 to 20 minutes to closing tasks. These can include things like loading the dishwasher, cleaning the counter, putting away personal care items on your vanity and other small tasks that will help you contain future clutter.

Share these tips with your student!

If your student is planning to move home over the summer or change living situations, share these tips with them to help them have a smoother moving experience.

Spring cleaning can have a variety of positive effects on your mood, mental health and overall well-being. Here are 7 tips to help you kickoff the spring season!

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4 things families should know about naloxone

Anonymous — Tue, 21 Feb 2023 14:42:41 +0000

4 things families should know about naloxone Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 02/21/2023 - 07:42

While we expect our students to follow applicable laws and policies related to alcohol and other drugs, we understand that some students may still choose to drink or use substances. That is why we believe it is so important to share strategies that can reduce the risk of harm with students and families.

Our campus programs seek to provide outreach, education, prevention and intervention for students to help them make better choices, stay safer when they go out and respond effectively to alcohol- and drug-related emergencies.

Here are a few things to know about overdose prevention and naloxone availability on campus.

Learn more about our harm reduction programs

Important note: Naloxone is the generic name for this particular drug. However, many people may know it better by its brand names like Narcan, Evzio or Kloxxado.

What is naloxone?

Naloxone is an FDA-approved medication that can temporarily reverse opioid overdoses without a prescription. Naloxone is most commonly available as a nasal spray. Depending on the type or severity of overdose a person is experiencing, one or more doses of naloxone may be needed to effectively revive them.

It’s also important to keep in mind that naloxone is safe to use, even if the individual is not actually overdosing. If in doubt, encourage your student to use it.

Who should carry naloxone?

If your student or someone they know uses opioid medications, plans to experiment with prescription or illicit drugs, or is at risk of an accidental overdose, they should carry naloxone.

Here are some situations that can increase a person's risk of overdose:

Unknowingly taking a counterfeit pill that contains fentanyl or other opioids
Misunderstanding the directions for use, accidentally taking an extra dose or deliberately misusing a prescription opioid
Taking opioid medications prescribed for someone else
Mixing opioids with other medications, alcohol or over-the-counter drugs
Experimenting with illicit drugs

When should students use naloxone?

Students should be prepared to help a fellow peer or stranger in the case of a potential overdose. This includes knowing the signs of an overdose and how to respond effectively.

Signs of a potential overdose

Pinpoint (small) pupils
Shallow or no breathing
Blue or grayish lips/fingernails
No response to stimulus (i.e. being pinched)
Gurgling/heavy wheezing or snoring sound

How to respond

Immediately call 911
Administer naloxone when available*
Start CPR

Note: While one dose is usually enough to bring someone temporarily out of overdose, it is safe to give multiple doses of naloxone if an individual does not respond.

Keep in mind that naloxone can be used to reverse overdoses caused by a variety of opioids, including:

Fentanyl
Oxycodone (OxyContin®)
Hydrocodone (Vicodin®)
Codeine
Morphine
Heroin

It’s important to remember that many substances and counterfeit prescriptions can contain opioids like fentanyl. Individuals who purchase these types of drugs from a dealer, friend or roommate may consume fentanyl or other opioids without even knowing it. These are typically referred to as accidental overdoses that are unrelated to substance use disorders.

Important note: Naloxone is safe to use, even if the individual is not actually overdosing. If in doubt, encourage your student to use it. This could help save a life, even if they’re unsure about the person’s condition.

How is naloxone administered?

Students can use naloxone without medical training. Here are some simple instructions for administering naloxone:

Review package instructions
Remove the nasal spray from its packaging
Insert the tip of the nasal spray into the person’s nose
Press the release to inject the spray
Continue to monitor the person’s condition and administer additional doses if they do not respond

Once naloxone is administered it is important to put the person into the recovery position by leaning them on their side. This will prevent the person from choking if they need to throw up. Remind your student that one dose of naloxone may not be enough to resuscitate a person who is overdosing. Remember, it’s important to always call 911 in case of an overdose emergency.

[video:https://www.youtube.com/shorts/d7LjUz3RvV8]

How can students get naloxone?

Naloxone is available for free anonymously and without a prescription to all students, staff and faculty at the Health Promotion front desk on the third floor of Wardenburg Health Center.

Students living in residence halls can also order free naloxone and fentanyl test strips online through our Safer Night Out Buff Box program. All Buff Boxes are delivered to a student’s residence hall for easy and convenient pickup.

Important note: Naloxone is also available for purchase by students, families and other community members at a variety of locations.

Support resources

Collegiate Recovery Community (CUCRC)
The CU Collegiate Recovery Community (CUCRC) provides community, support and connection for students, faculty and staff in recovery or seeking recovery from a wide range of behaviors, including drug and alcohol addiction.

Student Support and Case Management (SSCM)
If you are concerned about a student, SSCM can initiate a wellness check and provide individualized support. SSCM case managers connect students with campus partners, community resources and support systems, while also building a trusting relationship.

How to refer a student to SSCM:

Fill out the online referral form
Call SSCM at 303-492-7348
Email the department at sscm@colorado.edu

Fentanyl information
The United States continue to see an influx of counterfeit prescriptions and other drugs containing fentanyl. Here are a few things everyone should know about fentanyl and overdose prevention.

Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS)
CAPS provides a number of services related to substance use, including assessments, brief individual therapy, support for concerned friends and family members, referrals to campus and community resources, including suboxone treatment.

Training opportunities
There are a variety of free training opportunities available to staff, faculty and student organizations, including:

The Opposite of Addiction is Connection
Overdose Prevention and Response
Recovery Panel
Recovery Allies

Exploring Substance Use Workshop
This workshop provides students with a safe, judgment-free space where students can explore their relationship with substance use. Students of all levels of use or non-use are welcome.

Boulder County Works Program
Boulder County Public Health’s Works Program is a confidential, judgment-free harm reduction program that provides free:

Naloxone
Fentanyl test strips
Overdose prevention materials
Referrals to treatment and community services
… and more!

Community members are welcome to stop by any of their locations to pick up free supplies.

Stop the Clock
Over 200 Pharmacies in Colorado carry naloxone. Stop the Clock is a free tool that can help you find local pharmacies that carry naloxone.

Follow @CUHealthyBuffs on social for more tips, events and activites.

While we expect our students to follow applicable laws and policies related to alcohol and other drugs, we understand that some students may still choose to drink or use substances. Here are a few things to know about overdose prevention and naloxone availability on campus.

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