April 
By James McDaniel
April 7th is World Health Day. First started in 1950 by the World Health Organization (WHO), World Health Day is celebrated to generate “awareness of a specific health theme to highlight a priority area of concern for the WHO”. Although the “party” starts on April 7th, raising awareness continues throughout the year. This year’s theme is Working together for health. Focuses for action include:
1. Educating and training health workers
2. Supporting and helping health workers
3 . Enhancing the effectiveness of the health workforce
4. Tackling imbalances and inequities
The WHO Assistant Director-General says, “In 2006, World Health Day (celebrated annually on 7 April), will be devoted to the health workforce crisis. On this day around the globe, hundreds of organizations will host events to draw attention to the global health workforce crisis and celebrate the dignity and value of working for health. We invite you to join with WHO and other organizations to celebrate World Health Day 2006. Together, we can make a difference.”
What can you do here at Lawrence? Show your appreciation to Nurse Carol and our other health staff at the Health and Counseling Center! Just stopping by and saying ‘thank you’ can mean a lot!
Tip of the Month:
With the weather getting warmer, take time for yourself and go outside. Not only does the sun feel fabulously warm after a long winter, it can improve your mood and is also a great source of vitamin D. So go bask! Just make sure to take along the sunblock!
Earth Day
By Emma Sweet
Spring is upon us, and with it the hours that will soon be spent outdoors, reading in the grass on Main Hall Green and strolling along the river after dinner with friends. Our planet gives us so much to be grateful for in the spring—this year, why not give something back?
Celebrated each year on April 22 nd, Earth Day was first recognized in 1970. It was conceived of by Senator Gaylord Nelson as a way of recognizing the ways in which our planet needs our help and the things we can do to ensure its continuing health for years to come. Since that time, Earth Day has evolved into a worldwide phenomena, capturing the hopes and imaginations of children and adults everywhere.
Here at Lawrence, an Earth Day celebration is held every year on Main Hall Green. This is a great chance to come out, plant seeds, eat delicious food, hear some great music, and get inspired by ways in which you can make a difference. On April 22 nd, take a break from studying and give a little back to our planet—doesn’t it deserve it?
Alcohol Awareness Month
By Brianna Stapleton
The recent warmer weather is certainly cause to celebrate the arrival of spring. Celebrate with caution this month, however. April is Alcohol Awareness Month. Take the time to step back and examine your habits to see if you can make healthier, safer decisions about drinking.
One result of intoxication that is not often thought about is unsafe sex. Over 100,000 college students between the ages of 18 and 24 have been too intoxicated to know if they consented to having sex or if they used protection. This month, be conscious of how much you drink and what you plan to do later in the evening – and always use protection.
11% of college students have unintentionally damaged property while intoxicated. If you choose to drink, keep in mind that accidental vandalism could bring about unwanted costs and fees. Also, a small percentage of students (about 1.5%) have attempted suicide due to alcohol use. If you are struggling with mental health issues you should be very careful when making the choice whether or not to drink. If you feel that you need someone with whom to talk, use the free counseling services at the Health Center.
Binge drinking is a huge problem on college campuses across the nation. Though students are frequently aware of binge drinking, many do not know exactly what qualifies as a “binge.” A binge is 5 or more alcoholic drinks on one occasion. 35% of adults with alcohol addiction were binge drinkers by the age of 19.
April 7 is National Alcohol Screening Day. If you are concerned about your drinking habits and want to find out if you might have a problem with alcohol, you can go to the Health and Counseling Center website and get a free, confidential, online alcohol screening.
Brought to you by the Student Wellness Committee