Student Health and Well-Being
Health Promotion and Prevention Services
Welcome to Health Promotion and Prevention Services at Oberlin!
We are committed to supporting students in living healthy, balanced, and empowered lives. Health Promotion and Prevention Services (HPPS) provides inclusive, evidence-informed education and programming that centers student wellness, resilience, and community care.
Our work focuses on key areas that impact student well-being—mental health, substance use prevention, sexual health, nutrition, sleep, and stress management—through engaging initiatives, campus-wide campaigns, and collaborative partnerships.
Signature programs include:
Wellness Ambassadors (Certified Peer Educators): A student-led peer education initiative that promotes wellness across campus through outreach, events, and peer-to-peer engagement.
Truth Initiative Smoke- and Vape-Free Campaign: A campus-wide effort focused on tobacco and vape prevention, health equity, and policy awareness.
Wellness Week and Special Events: Opportunities for students to explore holistic wellness through interactive programming, giveaways, and campus collaboration.
Self-Care & Resilience Workshops: Skill-building sessions focused on managing stress, improving coping strategies, and enhancing personal well-being.
Support for Students Returning from Medical Leave
At Oberlin, we understand that returning to campus after a medical leave can bring a mix of emotions and questions. That’s why we offer specialized programs focused on stress management, community building, and personalized support—all designed to help you thrive in every aspect of life.
Whether you’re preparing to return or have already arrived back on campus, we’re here to support your transition.
How We Can Help
Schedule an appointment to:
Receive guidance on the reintegration process
Explore academic and wellness resources tailored to your needs
Talk through any concerns about transitioning back to campus life
Additional Services Offered:
The Office of Student Health Promotion and Prevention offers training and consultations. We can speak to student groups, staff, or faculty regarding various topics, including:
- suicide prevention gatekeeper training (QPR, JED YCHAF)
- mental/emotional well-being
- physical and sexual safety
- preventative services and campaigns
- harm reduction
- student leadership development
Contact Dr. Tara T. Woods, Director of Student Health Promotion and Prevention Services, at twoods1@oberlin.edu for more information and consultation.
Physical wellness consists of recognizing the need for physical activity, healthy foods, and sleep, preventing illness and injury, or managing chronic health conditions.
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Emotional wellness is coping effectively with life and creating satisfying relationships.
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Social wellness is developing a sense of connection, belonging, and a well-developed support system.
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Intellectual wellness is recognizing one's creative abilities and finding ways to expand knowledge and skills.
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Environmental wellness is occupying pleasant, stimulating environments that support well-being.
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Spiritual wellness is expanding a sense of purpose and meaning in life, including one's morals and ethics. It may or may not involve religious activities.
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Occupational wellness is defined as gaining personal satisfaction and enrichment from one’s work, whether that be academic work while in college or a job after graduation.
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Financial wellness is defined as satisfaction with current and future financial situations.
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