Author: Wood, Sarah (ASD-W)

HHS Wellness Newsletter

January 2020

12% of HHS grade 7 students reported smoking cigarettes. This increased to 53% of HHS grade 12 students.

Smoking

68% of HHS students report skipping breakfast.
31% say they skip breakfast because they don’t have time.

Breakfast

FACTS:
Tobacco kills up to half its users, making it one of the world’s greatest public health threats.
Most adult smokers start started smoking by age 18.
The immediate and early negative effects include: Reduced physical fitness, early heart disease, poor oral health, and poor skin.
TIPS:
Knowing if your teen’s friends smoke. You may be able to help them practice ways to refuse tobacco products if offered.
It is hard to quit smoking. Have your teen speak with an adult who smokes to understand just how difficult it is to stop smoking. It is vital for parents to have a positive influence on preventing smoking.

18 % of HHS reported smoking daily.

FACTS:
Studies suggest that eating a nutritious breakfast improves brain function — particularly memory and recall.
Breakfast is one of the best ways to recharge. It's the perfect opportunity to get energy-boosting carbohydrates from foods such as whole-grain bread, oatmeal and fruit.
TIPS:
Some quick breakfast suggestions: Cereal bars, cheese, eggs, fruit, overnight oats, smoothie, whole grain bread or toast, and yogurt.

Vaping

25% of HHS students have tried vaping
Facts:
Early use of nicotine increases chances of addiction
Long term health consequences of vaping are still unknown.
One vape pod could be equivalent to as few as 20 cigarettes.
TIPS:
Did you know a e-cigarette can look like a USB key?
Start a conversation with your student. Be open and don't criticize.
For help call 1-866-366-3667 or visit gosmokefree.gc.ca/quit

Sleep

Only 34% of HHS students sleep 8 hours or more each night
FACTS:
Teens need between 8-10 hours of sleep each night.
Sleep deprivation can reduce academic performance
TIPS:
Create clear boundaries about electronics at bedtime
Limit caffeine and energy drinks
Maintain a regular sleep schedule