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Ask UHCS provides general physical and mental health information only and should not be considered specific medical or psychological advice, a diagnosis, treatment or a second opinion. If you have an existing condition that could be adversely affected by information provided on this site, or if you have an urgent health problem consult with a health care provider before acting on information contained here.

Newest Question

My digestive system makes very loud noises. So I don't eat 12hrs before any class which is very difficult and still my system makes loud noises. So I miss a lot of class and my grades are slipping. It's so embarissing. How has UWW handled a situation like this in the past? And how could I go about getting help for this?(11/09)
Answer by Judy Lembrich, RNC

It is necessary for us to collect more information and perhaps to do an exam before we make any recommendation. Please call and schedule an appointment with a Nurse Practitioner or Doctor, call 262-472-1300, and press 3 to schedule an appointment.

When will the H1N1 vaccine be available to UWW students? (10/09)
Answer by Ruth Swisher, RN, MS, Director of Health

It is our hope that we will receive sufficient vaccine for campus. Current Public Health reports indicate that there are vaccine delays. We will advise campus as soon as we know if and when it can be offered.

If i think i have Chlamydia and i have all the symptoms what will happen if i dont go get treatment?(10/09)
Answer by Linda Lamont, APNP

Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases. Untreated Chlamydia can lead to a number of problems, including sterility for men and women alike.

Untreated Chlamydia in men can infect the urethra (the tube by which men and women pass urine), epididymitis - an infection of the epididymis (the tube that carries sperm away from the testes), or proctitis - an inflammation of the rectum.

In women, Chlamydia can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)* and scarred fallopian tubes. Women who develop PID are also at higher risk for chronic pelvic pain and ectopic pregnancy (when a fertilized egg implants outside of the uterus). PID and ectopic pregnancies can be life-threatening. Chlamydia may cause premature births (giving birth too early) and the infection can be passed along from the mother to her child during childbirth, causing an eye infection, blindness, or pneumonia in the newborn.

If you're sexually active, it's extremely important to be tested for Chlamydia and other STIs, even if you don't have any symptoms. The risk of passing an untreated infection to your partner is very high.

There are various methods that can be used to test for Chlamydia. Urine tests are commonly used. Basically, the test involves urinating into a specimen container and sending the sample to a lab for analysis. Results are usually available in 2 -3 days. Treatment, which is very effective, consists of taking an antibiotic.

Most UWW students qualify for free STD testing and treatment of a Chlamydia infection can cost as little as $4. All testing and treatment for UWW students is confidential at the University Health and Counseling Center.

For more information call 262 472 1300 Ext. 2211

*Symptoms of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

Sudden low-grade or high fever; chills
Frequent urination, burning when urinating, or inability to empty bladder
Abnormal or foul discharge from vagina or urethra
Irregular bleeding or spotting
Bleeding or pain during or after intercourse
Swollen abdomen and/or lymph nodes
Lack of appetite
Nausea or vomiting
Increased menstrual pain and cramps
Women with PID may experience some or none of these symptoms; symptoms range from very mild to painful enough to warrant a visit to the emergency room.

I bruise very easily and for no reason? I dont know if i should see a doctor for it, or not. Also my joints and muscles have been feeling tight and a uncomfortable feeling lately. What could it be? and what should i do?(10/09)
Answer by Ruth Swisher, RN, MS, Director of Health

An appointment with a doctor or nurse practitioner is advised as a full history and physical exam would be needed to provide appropriate medical assessment and care. Please see your personal health care provider or call the UWW health service 262-472-1300 and press #3 for the UHCS health service appointment line if you wish to make an appointment with a doctor or nurse practitioner on campus.

I heard rummors of H1N1 affecting more students on campus, and rumors of cancelling classes. Are these rumors true? If these rummors are not true what is the status of H1N1 on campus?
Answer by Ruth Swisher, RN, MS, Director of Health

While there are persons on campus who have or have had influenza like illnesses and some of them have likely been H1N1, the numbers are not overwhelming. UHCS is not aware of any class cancellations. We remind everyone to continue to practice good prevention procedures including frequent hand washing, covering your cough and to stay home if ill. Please visit the UWW and the UHCS websites for detailed information on prevention, what to do for isolation if ill as well as other important updates.

Do you do walk-in lab testings or is that by appointment? (9/09)
Answer by Marsha McKinnon, Registered Nurse Clinician

Students need to schedule an appointment if coming in for lab work. If we are doing courtesy lab they need to have a physicians order when they come in.

How many consecutive times can an alcohol-based hand sanitizer be used before it becomes ineffective? (09/09)
Answer by Ruth Swisher, Director of Health

It is recommended to use soap and water whenever possible as a first choice for hand washing. It is further recommended to use soap and water after 3 uses of hand sanitizer whenever possible. If not possible, hand sanitizer would then be used however it is less effective after three or more uses.

Can a student who doesn't attend UWW or have insurance use the services on campus for a low fee? (2-09)
Answer by Marilyn J. Kile, LCSW, Wellness Coordinator

UHCS only provides services to enrolled students, with a few exceptions for staff and faculty e.g., flu shots and Employee Assistance Services. If you graduate in May though, you can receive health services for no additional fee until the second Monday of June. To continue services until the first day of fall classes there is a one time fee that changes yearly (less than $40).

If you are enrolled in the spring and for the fall, but not the summer, you can receive health services for no additional fee until the first Monday of June. To continue services from the first Monday of June through August 1, the one time fee of less than $40 applies. After August 1, full services are available without the additional one time time fee.

Enrolled students do not need health insurance to use UHCS.

Previously submitted questions and answers:

• I think I have ADHD. Can you help? (2-09)
• I think I have a STD but not sure which one (1-09)
• Can I quit smoking for surgery? (1-09)
• How long do lab results take? (2-08)
• Since I'm not a full time student anymore I am not under my parents health insurance anymore, and I was wondering if the UHCS offered any sort of insurance to a person like me in case something bad happens? (1-08)
• Is there a service available for driving students to/from classes while they are injured, for example, on crutches? (1-08)
• How long does it take for nicotine to get out of the body? (1-08)
• How many counseling sessions are allowed in one week or one month?
• What kind of services are free at UHCS?
• What shots do sophomores need?
• Are we able to come to the Health Center at anytime during the night?
• Do you have a psychiatrist on demand in case we need to talk to someone right away?
• I want to eat healthy but I don’t have much time. What are some easy dishes to make?
• I've been thinking about coming in for some counseling but I'm not sure what goes on in counseling. What's it like?
• What are some tips to cope with stress during test times?
• How come the recommendations are for 5-9 servings of fruit and vegetables per day? Why the range? It makes it kind of confusing.
• I think my roommate might have an eating disorder, and I'm concerned. What should I do?
• My boyfriend back home and I were both virgins when we started having sex with each other so we don't have to worry about STIs right?
• How do I avoid back and neck pain when working at the computer for long periods of time?

I think that I might have ADHD. Does the Health Center provide any professional screenings or services for such a condition? (2-09)
Answer by: Ruth L. Swisher, RN, MS, Health Service Director

The Health Service can provide medication and follow-up for someone who has the diagnosis established but does not have the resources to do the testing that may be required to establish the diagnosis initially. A student may certainly make an appointment to be seen by either a UHCS health or a counseling professional to discuss services and options for needed care. Please call 262-472-1300 for an appointment.

I am having surgery, C2 thru T2, 2/16/09, my doctor said I have to quit smoking, I only smoke out of nerves 5 to 10 per day, hardly do I ever smoke 10 unless I am maxed out stressed, I smoke Winston which has No Additives, someone at home recommended Carlton, yuk, I really want to stop, I cannot use the patch, My skin is so allergic that my skin blistered and was bleeding from this patch, my question is, how long does it take for the body not to show any nicotine, or how long does it take to get the nicotine out of the body? Everyone at my shared rental home smokes, I will be in the hospital for 7-10 days then I go to a healing center for 10 more days before I go home, I think I can quit by then because I did it 15 years ago when I first started to smoke, my roommates state they will quit while I’m gone, all 3 can take the patch and promised me they wanted to quit too, NO one smokes in the house. Do you think I can make it, I am a strong person, I started casual smoking one year ago because my boyfriend smokes. Sorry, I guess that’s about 3 questions. (1-09)
Answer by Judy Lembrich, RN,C, Nurse Clinician

I know you can make it. Nicotine is really only in your body for about a day. Using a nicotine replacement is certainly a good choice - and there are many more available instead of just the patch.
Getting support is also helpful. The quit line is an excellent source if you are unavailable to go for an appt. 1-800-784-8669.
Switching to another brand is not a good idea. There is no "safe" cigarette.
You can also ask your doctor about other medications such as Zyban, and Chantix and more .
Good Luck -- on that and your surgery! Remember - once you quit - it only takes one for some persons to get addicted again.

If I think I have an STD but not sure which one. Would someone be able to look at my problem and tell me what's wrong? If so, how much would it cost? (1-09)
Answer by : Linda Lamont, APNP, BC, Nurse Practitioner

It is important to accurately identify the cause of any STD because treatments vary. Some people will try to identify STD's by pictures or descriptions from friends or off the internet. The problem with this approach is sometimes they think they have a STD - and they may not. This causes a lot of worry for no reason - something none of us need. Or they do have a STD and need treatment but most treatments require a prescription so a visit to a health care professional is needed anyway. Some STD's should be treated sooner rather than later because of potential complications. For example, if Chlamydia and Gonorrhea are not treated in a timely fashion, they have the potential of scarring the fallopian tubes making getting pregnant difficult.

No one wants to think they have a STD much less talk with a stranger about the possibility of having an STD. But a visit to a health care professional is confidential and your privacy is carefully guarded. Our campus health center staff are experts at working with people to understand their STD risks, screening options, and treatment choices.

There in no charge to enrolled UW-Whitewater students for an office visit to see a physician or nurse. The costs of specific STD tests can be found under FEES. There is a public health program and the Family Planning Waiver Program that may available to cover some testing costs for students who qualify.
So the bottom line is come in and talk with a professional; determine your risks, the best financial options both for testing and, if needed, treatment.

How long do lab results take? (2-08)
Answer by Germaine Olm, MT (ASCP), Senior Medical Technologist

Lab result turn-around time varies depending upon the test ordered. Most in-house test results are available during the patient visit. If we must send the test/s to a reference lab, most results are available within 24 hours. Some may take up to a week, i.e. cultures or tests that the lab runs only on certain days of the week.

Since I'm not a full time student anymore I am not under my parents health insurance and I was wondering if the UHCS offered any sort of insurance to a person like me in case something bad happens?
Answer by Marilyn Kile, LCSW, Wellness Coordinator

Student Assurance Services offers a policy available for purchase by UW Whitewater students. All registered undergraduates and special students taking 5 or more credits hours (3 or more credit hours during summer term) and all graduate students are eligible to enroll in this insurance plan. This policy is exclusively for U.S. college students and their dependents and provides good coverage at competitive prices. International students should contact the International Education and Programs office at 262-472-4992 for information about health insurance for them.

We strongly encourage all students to have adequate health insurance coverage. To learn more or purchase this policy, go to the insurance company's web site.

Is there a service available for driving students to/from classes while they are injured, for example, on crutches?
Answer by Ruth Swisher, RN, MS, Health Service Director

UWW offers services to students with temporary disabilities, coordinated by the Office of Student life and supported by the Center for Students with Disabilities, (CSD), and other offices within the Division of Student Affairs. Students with temporary disabilities who need transportation should contact the CSD at 262-472-4711 for information about transportation available for a fee.

Temporary disabled parking permits can be issued for on-campus use. Contact the Parking Services Office, located in the Visitor Center, at 262-472-1011 for details .

How long does it take for nicotine to get out of the body?
Answer by Judy Lembrich, RN,C, Nurse Clinician

The length of time it takes for nicotine to leave the body varies depending on the type of tobacco used, the depth and frequency of inhaling, etc.. It usually is gone within 24 hours.

The psychological addiction to nicotine is a much different story, and is the reason quitting tobacco use is difficult. If you or a friend are having difficulty with the quitting process, congratulations for trying! Beginning the process is the most difficult first step. I would be happy to assist you with the process: Judy Lembrich, RN. Call for an appointment: 472-1300.

You may also call the “Quit line” 1-800-784-8669 (toll free assistance for the tobacco cessation process). They also are offering free Nicotine replacement therapy on a first come/first serve basis. As of 10:20 AM, Jan. 14th they still had supplies remaining of all 3 of the products.

Good Luck!!

How do I avoid back and neck pain when working at the computer for long periods of time?
Answer by Marilyn Kile, LCSW, Wellness Coordinator

First of all, it is important to have good posture when working at the computer. The CDC website on computer ergonomics will help set up your computer work area in the best manner for you. If you use a lap top, you need to be especially careful of your posture if you are not sitting at a table or desk in a good supportive chair.

Secondly, it is important to stretch every hour or two. Get up and walk a little, maybe get a drink of water. Try the following stretches. 1) Loosen up your wrists by shaking out your hands and making circles with your hands. 2) Alternately make a fist and stretch your fingers and thumbs out as straight as possible. 3) Sitting with your feet flat on the floor, stretch your arms overhead, fingers interlocked, palms to the ceiling for 5 seconds and then gently extend your arms back slightly until you feel a stretch. 4) Start with your right arm straight overhead. Then bend from the elbow and put your right hand on your back. Gently push your right elbow slightly to the left and down until you feel a stretch. Hold for 5 seconds. Switch sides. 5) Sit on the front of your chair with your feet flat on the floor. Place your palms with fingers facing forward on the seat of the chair behind your hips. Stretch up as tall as possible and then push your palms into the chair and squeeze your shoulder blades together. Hold for 5 seconds 6) Gently stretch your head from side to side, ear toward shoulder, keeping shoulders relaxed.

My boyfriend back home and I were both virgins when we started having sex with each other so we don't have to worry about STIs right?
Answer by linda Lamont, APNP

On the surface, the easy answer would be you are good to go.
But... the problem is the potential risks if one partner 'kind of' had sex before (or since) but didn't consider it sex. Genital contact, even without penetration, can potentially result in STI's as can mouth to genital contact. Some STI's, including two of the more common ones, chlamydia and gonorrhea, can potentially lead to an inability to become pregnant in the future. The human papillomavirus (HPV) is commonly transmitted between sexual partners and has been found to be the cause of some cervical cancers. HPV can take several weeks after exposure before it is evident. Unfortunately several of the STI's cause no outward symptoms.

Let's play this situation out a bit further. Your partner tells you he has never been sexually active. You do believe him and don't want to start a relationship on distrust by asking him to go for testing. So what do you do? You could start being sexually active, wait a time, and then be checked to see if you got anything. But think about it... if you did get an STI you'd no longer trust him AND you would have an STI. What a lousy combination not to mention a major damper on a relationship.

Ideally, you would suggest that each of you go for evaluation before becoming sexually active. Explain that you really value the relationship and by going for testing, each of you demonstrates a commitment and respect for each other. Will all people agree to this? Hopefully. But if they won't go, it answers one question, how they view you and the relationship.

The bottom line is see your health care provider, discuss your risk factors, and follows their recommendations. It is time and money well spent.

Further questions? Contact the nurse at University Health & Counseling Services 472-1305 x2211 or call 472-1300 for an appointment.

Online resources:
www.4women.gov

www.cdc.gov

I think my roommate might have an eating disorder, and I'm concerned. What should I do?
Answer by Jill Mallin, M.A., Outreach Counselor

This can be a very difficult and scary time for you and your roommate. Eating disorders are complex physical, emotional, and psychological conditions. Disordered eating is often a person's method of coping with or avoiding feelings and events. Your friend's attitudes about food, weight, and body image may be leading to strict eating and/or exercise habits that can have serious consequences. It may be difficulty to confront someone that you think has an eating problem, but I urge you to do so anyway. Your concern can make a difference, even if the person seems unreceptive at first.

Note: How many of you assumed from the question above that the writer was referring to a woman? Keep in mind, 5-10% of those suffering from eating disorders are men, and this number is constantly rising. Don't assume that just because someone is male that he can't have an eating disorder.

Explain why you are concerned and worried about him/her
Tell him/her how you feel about what has been going on. Explain that your concern comes because you care. list specific things that s/he is doing that have you concerned; avoid giving generalizations.

Don't attack the person, confront the behavior
Use "I" statements to express your concern. Say things like "I get upset when you don't eat for two days."

Avoid giving simple solutions and becoming the "food police"
Don't say: "If you'd just eat more, you'll be okay!" Eating disorders are NOT about food. Improving nutrition is just one aspect of a recovery process that also address underlying issues that are driving the behaviors.

Take steps to get help
Encourage him/her to seek counseling; even offer to go with him/her the first time.

Be there
Be there for him/her with no judgment.

Remember: You CANNOT force someone to seek help or change their habits. The best you can do is to voice your concerns, provide support, and know where to go for more information.

Consult with a professional
Talking with the professional counselors at Counseling Services can help reduce the anxiety you may be feeling and provide a confidential space to discuss these issues.

For further information or questions, or to meet with a counselor in person to talk more about these or other issues, contact Counseling Services at 472-1305.

Useful websites:
Anorexia Nervosa and Related Eating Disorders, Inc. http://www.andred.com

National Eating Disorder Association http://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org

How come the recommendations are for 5-9 servings of fruit and vegetables per day? Why the range? It makes it kind of confusing.
Answer by Marilyn Kile, LCSW, Wellness Coordinator

The reason a range is given is because people come in a variety of sizes, ages, and activity levels. It may seem a bit confusing but it is more accurate than just recommending one number of servings for everyone. Basically a person who is larger and more active would need 9 servings per day and a person who is smaller and less active would need 5 servings per day.

How much is considered one serving? A cup of salad greens, an apple, 1/2 cup of peas, 1/4 cup of raisins are all examples of one serving of fruit or vegetables.

It is important to get to know yourself and your unique dietary needs. There is a website that can help you figure out what your needs are. www.mypyramid.gov will do the calculations for you. All you have to do is enter your age, gender and activity level and it will show you how many cups of each food group you should eat every day. For example, an 18 year old man who exercises more than 60 minutes most days should eat 4 cups of vegetables and 2.5 cups of fruit every day to maintain optimal health. A 25 year old woman who exercises less than 30 minutes most days only needs to eat 2.5 cups of vegetables and 2 cups of fruit.

Another way to get to know your unique dietary needs is to talk to your health care provider. If you have specific health problems your health care provider may recommend a special diet or encourage some foods over others. For example, if you have high blood pressure your health care provider may recommend more fruits and vegetables because they are high in potassium and can help lower blood pressure.

To end confusing dietary recommendations, discover the recommendations for your unique needs and stick with them.

What are some tips to cope with stress during test times?
Answer by Gwen Hering, MS, LPC, Counselor
Many college students experience increased anxiety when taking exams. Students have said they feel as though their "mind suddenly goes blank", or their chest feels tight and their heart begins to beat faster. Students sometimes experience feelings of nervous tension in different areas of their body, often accompanied by increased perspiration. The following is a list of Do's and Don'ts for dealing with test anxiety:

• Don't wait until you feel motivated to start studying. Start studying and the motivation will follow.
• Don't cram for an exam. The amount you learn won't be worth the stress.
• Don't think of yourself or the test in a negative sense. Positive self-talk can help put a lid on the negative thoughts that can cause, and/or perpetuate anxiety.
• Don't stay up late studying the night before an exam. Try to stop studying at least 12 hours before taking the exam. This helps clear the mind of distractions and increases information recall during the test.
• Don't spend time with classmates who generate stress for you on test day. (Especially if students are waiting in the classroom and quizzing each other prior to test time).
• Don't take those last few moments before the test for last minute cramming. Take time to relax, go for a walk, listen to music, read the newspaper, or some other relaxing distraction.
• DO remind yourself that the test is only a test, not a measure of your self-worth or your value as a person, or ability to succeed in life.
• DO a reality check. How important is this exam in the grand scheme of things? Keep it in perspective!
• DO reward yourself after the test with a healthy meal and/or movie, a good novel.
• DO tell yourself that you will do your best on the test, and that will be enough!
• DO prepare for the test: There is no substitute for studying and preparing. Try to begin studying at least a week in advance.
• DO practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, visualization, and/or meditating.
• DO practice good self care like: Eat Well, Get Enough Sleep, Exercise, Have a balanced study schedule, Strive for Balance DAILY.

To learn more about test anxiety, try looking at the following sites:

freedomfromfear.org

www.ulc.psu.edu/studyskills/test_taking.html

www.montana.edu/wwwcc/docs/test-anxiety.html

I've been thinking about coming in for some counseling but I'm not sure what goes on in counseling. What's it like?
Answer by Jill Mallin, Ph.D., Outreach Counselor

I have heard numerous questions over the years about what counseling is like. We all have our own ideas about the answer to this question, often influenced by the media's depiction of therapy. I would like to clarify what you might expect if you decide to give counseling a try, whether here at UHCS or elsewhere. It is my hope that providing this information will help eliminate some of the fear associated with this unknown process.

Allow me to paint you a picture of what happens during therapy. After you have completed some paperwork, the therapist will often begin by asking you what is bringing you to counseling, ask you about your daily functioning (i.e., How is your sleep, eating habits, anxiety level, alcohol and drug use? Are you making it to classes or skipping work?) and take a short history.

The time it takes to become comfortable with your therapist varies. Talking to a complete stranger about personal issues takes some getting used to! Chances are, your counselor is well aware of this and will assist you in feeling as comfortable as possible during the process.

As you move further into therapy, your sessions may be different depending on your therapist's style and approach. For instance, some counselors may ask you to participate in experiential exercises, such as role-playing a conversation or drawing pictures. Others choose to focus on how your thinking about the situation is interfering with your functioning. Some therapists look specifically at how family and relationship dynamics are related to your presenting issue. Still others use a combination of these and other approaches.

Often, clients will be assigned homework to complete outside of session. Don't worry, this does not mean writing a ten-page research paper! A typical homework assignment might be to continue reflecting upon issues raised in your most recent session by journaling about it, or perhaps practice some new skill discussed in session (such as being assertive). Because most counseling sessions last for 50 minutes once a week, there is a great deal of time when you are NOT in therapy to be thinking about and incorporating issues raised in session.

How long does counseling normally last? The answer to this question is "it depends". The timeline of therapy is usually discussed at the beginning of counseling and depends on how long the client would like to devote to examining this concern, the length of time the client has been dealing with it, the complexity of the issues, etc.

I hope this information has helped take some of the mystery out of what happens behind therapists' closed doors. Please contact Counseling Services at 472-1305 if you would like to schedule an appointment or talk with someone further about how counseling could benefit you.

I want to eat healthy but I don’t have much time. What are some easy dishes to make?
Answer by Marilyn Kile, LCSW, Wellness Coordinator

It all starts in the supermarket. If you have the right ingredients on hand it is easy to make quick and healthy meals. Keep staples like canned and frozen fruits, vegetables, beans and soups; peanut butter; and whole grains like brown rice, oatmeal, couscous, barley and whole grain pasta and bread available for impromptu meals. Buy fresh fruits and vegetables and low fat dairy and lean meats when you plan to use them.

One easy way to make one dish meals is to start with low sodium canned soups and then jazz them up. Some examples are:
To Black Bean soup, add frozen corn and diced red bell pepper.
To Potato soup add, frozen shrimp and frozen mixed vegetables.
To Tomato soup, add rinsed canned black eyed peas or other canned beans, canned diced tomato and sliced green onion.
To Cream of Broccoli soup, add micro-waved broccoli and cauliflower pieces and canned or packaged tuna or salmon.
Heat through and serve with a salad or piece of fruit and whole grain roll.

Pasta and spaghetti sauce is a perennial favorite. Use whole wheat pasta and make a more complete dish by adding to the sauce:
-diced fresh tomato, black olives, crumbled feta cheese and basil.
-sautéed broccoli, green bell pepper strips, shrimp and minced garlic.
-canned zucchini in tomato sauce and pieces of turkey breast.
-baked marinated tofu (in the refrigerated section), chopped plum tomatoes, minced garlic and sliced green onion.

Don’t want to cook at all? Try a salad. Start with pre washed bagged romaine or other leaf lettuce and use a small amount of your favorite dressing. Add:
-Grapes, chopped celery, dried cherries or cranberries and rinsed canned garbanzo beans.
-Canned or packaged tuna, cherry tomatoes, sliced onion and almonds.
-Rinsed canned black beans, drained canned corn, diced carrot and sliced banana pepper.
-Canned or packaged salmon, canned artichoke hearts, walnuts and dill.
Happy eating!

Do you have a psychiatrist on demand in case we need to talk to someone right away?
Answer by Steve Naymick, LCSW, Senior Counselor

The University Health and Counseling Services (UHCS) is open Monday through Friday, 8 - 4:30 and is staffed with licensed professionals, available for students experiencing a crisis and needing to speak with someone, “right away”. The Counseling Service schedules time for emergency appointments.
The Counseling Service is staffed with psychologists, social workers, and licensed professional counselors. The Health Service staff includes Physicians and Nurse Practitioners who can evaluate, and if appropriate, prescribe psychotropic medications. In addition, students can be referred to the UHCS consulting psychiatrist who is here approximately 2 days per month.
The Walworth County Crisis line, 262-741-3200 or 800-365-1587, is available 24 hours per day.

Are we able to come to the Health Center at anytime during the night?
Answer by Marilyn Kile, LCSW, Wellness Coordinator

The University Health and Counseling Services is open Monday – Friday, 8:00 am – 4:30 pm. There are other services available when we are not open.

The Mercy Urgent Care Center at 519 W. Main St. in Whitewater is open Monday - Friday 5-9 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. They can be reached by phone at 262-473-0400.

The Fort Atkinson Memorial Health Services emergency Department is open 24 hours per day. It is located at 611 Sherman Ave. E. on Hwy 106 in Fort Atkinson. Their phone number is 1-920-568-5333.

In case of an emergency call 911 off campus and arrange for immediate and rapid transport to an emergency facility, such as a hospital, where sophisticated equipment and resources are available.

In the case of a mental health need or emergency call 1-800-365-1587 for the 24 hour Crisis line. The National Suicide Prevention lifeline is 1-800-273-TALK.

For assistance following a sexual assault, call the UWW Sexual Assault Response Team at 472-1060, 24 hours per day for support, information/referral and advocacy.

What shots do sophomores need?
Answer by Donene Rowe, MD, Medical Supervisor

The answer to that is constantly changing, but I will give you the answer that is accurate for 2006-07 for a college student who is otherwise healthy. The immunizations we would recommend are:
If you are not current:
* Tetanus (Td) or tetanus plus pertussis (Tdap)
* Influenza

If you have never had:
*Gardasil if female
* Hepatits B
* Varicella (chickenpox) if you did not have the disease
* Meningicoccal (meningitis) if living in the residence halls

Tetanus immunization needs to be boosted every 10 years. Most children finished their primary series - given as a component of DPT - with their kindergarten shots at age 5 or 6. So most students need a booster at age 15 or 16. If they received this booster, they are due for another at age 25 - 26, unless they get a particularly dirty cut. Then if 5 years has gone by since the last booster another is needed. If they have not received a booster in the past 10 years, one is needed.

If a student needs a tetanus booster, we suggest that they get a new (9/06') immunization that boosts both tetanus and pertussis (whooping cough). We have had yearly outbreaks of pertussis in Wisconsin for the last several years. Although this illness is usually just a severe, prolonged cough in healthy adults, it can cause more serious problems for the very young or old.

The vaccine will prevent most students from a nasty cough that gets in the way of all the things they need to do and from infecting more vulnerable people around them.

In 2006-2007 Gardasil was introduced. This is a vaccine to four of the many types of HPV virus. Two of these types are causes of cervical infection that can play a role in developing cervical cancer. The other two types cause genital warts.

Another vaccine we recommend is Hepatitis B. Most students will have received this vaccine as infants or in middle school. If they did there is no recommendation for further boosters. If they have not received all three injections they should get any remaining doses.

Although many students will have had chickenpox, if they did not, they should consider the Varicella (chickenpox) vaccine. If a student questions whether they might have had chickenpox, a blood test can be done to determine if they are immune.

Students with certain medical illnesses or those traveling to certain regions need several other immunizations. If a student has questions about their specific needs, the providers at UHCS would be happy to discuss this with them. Call 472-1300 for an appointment.

We recommend that students get an influenza vaccine yearly. There are two forms available to most students—an injection and a nasal solution form. They are equally effective. Influenza is a respiratory tract illness (not the vomiting and diarrhea that is commonly called “stomach flu”) and usually has significant fever, aches, headache and fatigue with it. It will considerably interrupt a student’s life for at least 1-2 weeks.

What kind of services are free at UHCS?
Answer by Marilyn Kile, LCSW, Wellness Coordinator

All counseling sessions, whether individual or group, are free to enrolled UWW students. The employee Assistance Program provides UWW employees and their immediate family members with a free opportunity to address personal and work related concerns.

For enrolled UWW students, there is no additional charge for medical exams or office visits. If lab tests, medication, immunizations, supplies or procedures are needed, there are relatively low cost fees for those. UWW students enrolled in the spring but not the summer, can continue health services through August 31 for a one-time fee of $37.

All outreach educational programs, brochures, posters, and CD/DVD rental are offered free of charge.

How many counseling sessions are allowed in one week or one month?
Answer by Steve Naymick, LCSW, Senior Counselor

Following the initial consultation, the counselor and student will develop a treatment plan. The counselor will recommend the frequency of sessions. To stabilize a crisis, the counselor may elect to meet with the student more than once a week.
UW-Whitewater students are allowed fourteen sessions during the academic year.