Remote – University Health Services – UW–Madison https://www.uhs.wisc.edu Promote, Protect, and Improve Student Health and Wellbeing Mon, 18 Aug 2025 16:46:57 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://www.uhs.wisc.edu/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/cropped-uw-badge-512-1-32x32.png Remote – University Health Services – UW–Madison https://www.uhs.wisc.edu 32 32 It’s Respiratory Virus Season https://www.uhs.wisc.edu/respiratory-virus-season/ Tue, 04 Feb 2025 14:41:20 +0000 https://www.uhs.wisc.edu/?p=17216 Upper respiratory viruses are common throughout the winter months. As students have returned to campus, UHS has seen an increase in respiratory illnesses, which includes influenza (flu). In fact, across Wisconsin respiratory virus activity is high. Common symptoms include a cough, stuffy nose, and sore throat. Fevers are common at the beginning of the illness and should go away in the first few days. Antibiotics do not treat viral illnesses. While symptoms are usually the worst for the first 3-5 days, they usually get better within a couple of weeks. 

Here’s what you need to know to prevent from getting sick, recover if you are sick, and when to call UHS. 

Avoid Getting Sick 

  • Wash your hands often. Use with soap and warm water, washing for at least 20 seconds after using the bathroom and before handling food.  
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Try to keep your distance from those who are sick, like roommates and classmates. 
  • Get fresh air. Better air circulation can reduce your risk of exposure to viruses. Crack a window on warmer days or get outside for a walk. 

Recover When You’re Sick 

  • Stay home if you have a fever and for 24 hours after your fever resolves. 
  • Wear a mask around others if you are coughing. 
  • Get extra rest to allow your body to recover. 

For a cough or sore throat… 

  • Drink hot tea with honey 
  • Use cough drops 
  • Gargle warm salt water 
  • Take Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or Ibuprofen (Advil) to alleviate discomfort 

For a stuffy nose… 

  • Take steamy shower or use a humidifier 
  • Take pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) to reduce congestion 
  • Use a saline nasal spray or rinse (neti pot) 

When to Call UHS 

Calling UHS directly helps you get the right care at the right time. In addition to helping you schedule an appointment, our staff can give you advice on how to care for yourself. If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, give us a call at 608-265-5600. 

  • Fever higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit or 38.3 degrees Celsius  
  • Cough that is painful, getting worse, or lasts longer than 2 weeks 
  • Sore throat lasting longer than 3 days or making it difficult to swallow 
]]> UHS Open House Success: Students Contribute Everlasting Art https://www.uhs.wisc.edu/uhs-open-house-success-students-contribute-everlasting-art/ Mon, 03 Feb 2025 16:15:40 +0000 https://www.uhs.wisc.edu/?p=17196 On January 30th from 5 – 7 PM, UHS hosted an Open House event. It was a hit, with students participating in fun activities while also learning about the health services available on campus.

During the event, students made art through crafts and interactive activities. Their creations, which ranged from colorful drawings to inspiring messages, will be hung in the Mental Health Services (7th floor) waiting area on the to brighten the space and create a welcoming atmosphere for those seeking mental health support.

In addition to contributing artwork, attendees also explored UHS services by connecting with providers in Primary Care, Sexual Health, Mental Health, Nutrition, Psychiatry, and Survivor Services. Snacks were savored, games were played, and mindfulness workshops took place. Bucky Badger made an appearance, adding extra fun to the evening.

The event not only highlighted the importance of student wellbeing but also gave participants a chance to leave a lasting impact on UHS spaces. The artwork will serve as a reminder of the creative and supportive environment that UHS strives to foster for all students.

If you missed the event, make sure to stay up to date with UHS on our event calendar!

]]> Managing emotions during a time of transition https://www.uhs.wisc.edu/managing-emotions-during-a-time-of-transition/ Tue, 21 Jan 2025 14:07:45 +0000 https://www.uhs.wisc.edu/?p=17123 Transitions in any aspect of life, whether it’s a political shift, a change of major, adjusting to new professors and schedules, or starting a new internship or job, can be challenging to manage. As with any big transition, you may be experiencing anxiety, excitement, stress, or other emotions.  UHS Mental Health Services understands that uncertainty and ambiguity can take a toll on mental health and general wellbeing. Reach out to UHS for compassionate and accessible support.

Check out some of our spring offerings:

Thrive Workshops offers students opportunities to build skills and gain tools to support academic performance, relationships, and overall wellbeing. View the spring 2025 Thrive Workshop schedule.

Let’s Talk is a no-cost, informal, and confidential consultation with a mental health provider. Sessions last 20-25 minutes and are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Let’s Talk is available virtually and in person every day of the week. View the spring 2025 Let’s Talk schedule.

Wellness groups and workshops consist of Drop-In Meditation, Mindfulness Sessions, and Hearts & Crafts. Learn more about groups and workshops and register.

Togetherall is a clinically moderated online community where students can anonymously seek and provide mental health support by sharing their experiences in a safe environment. Learn more about Togetherall and register.

Your mental health matters.

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