The New Mexico State University Wellness, Alcohol and Violence Education Program is using social media to continue health promotion efforts on all WAVE topics including mental health, physical health, alcohol education and violence prevention.The Wellness, Alcohol and Violence Education Program at New Mexico State University is a risk reduction and prevention program that educates the campus community on issues of personal safety and well-being. The WAVE/WAVE Rx Program are a staff of 15 working from home to ensure health promotion stays at the forefront of the NMSU campus, according to Olivia De Leon, WAVE Program health education specialist.

"During these uncertain times, the NMSU WAVE Program is working hard. We have taken to social media to continue our health promotion efforts on all WAVE topics including mental health, physical health, alcohol education and violence prevention. In addition to these WAVE topics, we have included coronavirus information and tips on navigating our new social-distancing lifestyles," De Leon said.

Social media posts are planned based on what students may need to know at certain times. When the COVID-19 outbreak was in its early stages, information about proper handwashing and hand sanitizer effectiveness was developed by the WAVE Program. To help students with fear of the unknown, the WAVE Program taught its followers breathing techniques to lower stress levels and coping skills.

"Now that we are back to school and adjusting to online schooling, we will focus more on encouraging healthy habits from home. This includes promoting TeleHealth services offered by Aggie Health and Wellness and AggieFit's new Zoom group fitness classes both available for students, faculty and staff. Moving forward, WAVE will be creating a YouTube channel where we can provide even more educational material for the NMSU community as we continue to work and learn from home," De Leon said.

The NMSU WAVE Program is open to suggestions, leave a comment or send a direct message on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook @nmsuwave.