These impactful sketches in The Guardian are one of a series of recent publications about university mental health, and aptly capture the impact of mental ill health. Additionally, this article features data showing that a record 1,180 students experiencing mental ill health left courses early in 2014-15, up 210% from 2009-10. Mental health can suffer when you are far from home and feel alone when experiencing academic, relationship and financial problems that suddenly feel amplified. In response, we’ve compiled tips for university students to boost their mental health because we believe that emotional wellbeing is just as important as educational achievement. So, read on for tips for university students to boost mental health!
1. Talk about it
University Mental Health Advisers Network website for more information about the services available at your university. These advisers provide support to university students experiencing mental health difficulties and could, therefore, be a fantastic resource. Also, if you’ve exhausted these options and still feel unwell, you can ask your GP to refer you to a therapist, refer yourself or, if you can, browse the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy for a private therapist.
2. Find an online support group
Sometimes it’s easier to talk about mental health online, especially if you’re not ready to speak to someone you already know. Beat, for example, provide peer support and an intimate environment in which people can share their experiences with eating disorders. In effect, they provide a safe haven and ensure that they moderate posts and keep them confidential.
3. Be compassionate
This is easier said than done as we can easily get stuck repeating negative self talk. So, make sure to be kind to yourself, allow yourself breaks when needed and remember things you’re grateful for and that you’ve accomplished to drown out the negative voice in your head.
4. Do more that boosts your mood
No amount of yoga will stretch away your mental health issues but it might help you feel just a little bit better – And if you’ve hit rock bottom, that could be your ray of light. If you start by thinking about the little things that make you feel good on a day-to-day basis, incorporating these into your daily routine could really make a difference. The Student Minds ripple campaign gives students a simple way to share the positive things they do for their mental health and how they tackle feelings of depression and low mood, so check out their ideas for you to try.
5. Track your mental health
Do you know when you feel certain ways? There are many apps like Emoodji that help you track your emotions and help you know when it’s time to seek support. Additionally, meditation apps like Headspace let you boost your mood with meditation (if that floats your boat) as well as share your problems anonymously.
We know very well the pressures faced by university students and if your require help managing your academic workload, please don’t hesitate to contact us by phone (02030867311) or email (info@ubertutors.co.uk).
