Student life, in some ways, has become the party life, leaving student health in disarray.

Late nights out with friends, quick, easy, greasy food and countless drinks at the bar have become the norm for students at Queen’s. We need to take a look at what choices we as students are making in terms of our weekend plans.

The binge-drinking that often coincides with partying isn’t conducive to a healthy lifestyle that’s already hard enough to maintain. According to recent studies carried out by the government of Nova Scotia, binge drinking often coincides with missed classes, negative interpersonal relationships, lower grades and sleep disturbances.

It’s hard enough being a student and making semi-healthy meals while staying up to date on reading schedules and maybe even hitting the gym once in a while. We don’t need to put our bodies anymore behind than they might already be.

It’s kind of scary to think we freak out if we dent our iPhone or find a scratch on our car, but don’t take the time to care for ourselves. Why is the replaceable more important than the only body we ever get?

This doesn’t mean that students should stay in and study every weekend, but it’s valuable to acknowledge that our health should still remain a priority in our time at university.

So hit the gym, buy some veggies, watch how much you drink and know that 30 years from now you’ll be happy your body is still functioning in top condition.

Rachel is an Assistant News Editor at the Journal.