Preventative health care is the most underrated college hack

Forget what you’ve heard about college “hacks.” The real secret weapon for success on campus isn’t an app or an energy drink. It’s preventive care, and almost no one is talking about it. As students scramble to snag the best dorm décor and hustle to register for classes, their health takes a back seat.

A simple dental, vision or wellness checkup can make a huge difference, boosting confidence and helping students stay healthy and focused. It’s time to shine a spotlight on how preventive care could transform their college experience.

The real cost of skipping care

What students don’t always realize is how quickly small health issues can become major distractions. That lingering headache? Could be from eye strain. That sore jaw or sensitive tooth? Could be a sign of a dental emergency. These seemingly small issues can snowball: 50% of college students report their health and wellness negatively affect how they perform academically. That’s why staying ahead of health issues with preventive care isn’t just smart, it’s essential. It directly impacts how they feel and how they show up.

The confidence boost college students overlook

Taking care of their teeth and eyes might not seem like a big deal to college students, but it can boost their confidence a lot. In fact, 93% of Arizonans aged 18-24 agree that taking action to protect their oral health enables them to be more confident when they’re around others. Little things like regular dentist and eye doctor visits, plus healthy habits like brushing, flossing and wearing glasses can do more than just keep students healthy — they help college students feel good, show up stronger and succeed in college. Confidence starts with care.

Why this is a preventive care moment

The back-to-school season provides a unique opportunity to champion preventive care. As college students prepare to pack their bags and decorate dorms, it’s also the perfect moment to prioritize habits that support their overall health and confidence. A few small steps now can lead to a healthier, more focused and more productive school year.

• Book a dentist, eye doctor and wellness appointment before classes start to catch any issues early and stay ahead of potential problems.
• Pick up a reusable water bottle—staying hydrated boosts energy, helps clear skin, keeps the eyes from drying out and even freshens breath.
• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss once a day. In fact, 57% of Arizonans aged 18-24 say they brush their teeth to maintain or improve their overall health.
• Take regular screen breaks to avoid eye strain and wear sunglasses outside to protect eyes from harmful UV rays.
• Wear sunscreen every day. Only 38.5% of college students do, but it helps prevent skin damage and protects long-term health.
• Review current benefits or explore student-friendly plans and locate in-network providers near campus to make accessing care easy and affordable.

A smarter kind of prep

College life can be hectic, unpredictable and full of stress, no doubt about it. And it’s easy for students to forget about taking care of themselves with so much going on. But preventive care is the most underrated college hack students can use to boost their confidence and feel their best. Building healthy habits and supporting them in prioritizing their health helps them show up feeling their best from day one.

Editor’s note: Sarah Sharits is the corporate communications manager for Scottsdale-based Delta Dental of Arizona. She lives in Peoria. Please send your comments to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.