STORY BY MATTHEW DENICOLA AND JONAS CORLISS, STAFF WRITERS
PHOTO BY JONAS CORLISS, STAFF WRITER
The Cypress College Health Center hosted an event called the “Health and Wellness Fair” in front of the humanities building’s right side on April 24 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. This event aimed to offer relevant resources for various health concerns that students may be dealing with.
Numerous health programs participated, each promoting their services and providing assistance to students dealing with mental and physical health issues. Students were able to engage in discussions about their internal struggles and learn how to articulate them.
With the growing need for mental health support on campus, diverse health programs participated in offering resources and guidance, aiming to empower students in navigating their internal challenges effectively.
Each program distributed informational materials and miscellaneous items to showcase their offerings.
AltaMed, a program dedicated to prioritizing individual health, offered information on HIV Specialty Care and strategies for preventing its transmission. They also provided services such as preventive health screenings, treatment adherence education, mental health counseling, in-home case management, and nutrition counseling. The program’s objective is to eliminate healthcare disparities by providing high-quality services to Southern California communities through an integrated system. Their booth distributed informational flyers and condoms for safe sex practices. More information about AltaMed can be found at AltaMed.org/getprepd.
One company present was Healthy Direction, which focused on promoting healthier beverage choices to maintain fitness, cautioning against misleading advertising for certain drinks. For further details on healthier beverage options, individuals were directed to visit www.choosemyplate.gov.
The Tobacco Use Prevention Program advocated for smoke-free parks through peaceful protests, aiming to discourage smoking and vaping in public parks to safeguard individuals, particularly children, from exposure to harmful chemicals. Head Director of TUPP Ronaldo Folsom stated, “We are seeking volunteers to help spread awareness and advocate for smoke-free parks.” Those interested in volunteering could reach out via email at TUPP@ochca.com.
An organization called Partner 4 Wellness which concentrates on creating healthier communities through partnerships and offering support for individuals grappling with alcohol addiction was present as well. They provide counseling and treatment to encourage a healthier lifestyle. Qualified staff deliver tailored substance use, safety, and mental health presentations, supported by a broad network of community contacts and resources. Additional information about Partner 4 Wellness is available at Partners4Wellness.org.
Finally, the Cypress College Health Center conducted Naloxone (Narcan) Training to reduce the number of overdose incidents on campus, as mandated by California State law. The training session covered essential information on recognizing opioid overdoses and administering Naloxone effectively, empowering students with life-saving skills for emergency situations. They acknowledged the importance of this training for students and welcomed all participants. Free Naloxone kits were distributed to interested students.
Dr. M. Ali, the medical director of the Health Center, expressed intentions to install a “Wellness Machine” which will dispense medications including Advil, Tylenol, and birth control, among other items. Details regarding the cost and installation date of the vending machine are yet to be determined.
The Health and Wellness Fair encouraged an open dialogue between the available resources and students regarding personal challenges students may be facing.
