University is often described as some of the best years of your life, but occasionally it can feel a little turbulent.
You’re away from home, meeting many new people, whilst trying to perform a juggling act of deadlines, coursework, exams and maybe even a part-time job thrown into the mix.
On top of all that, there’s the pressure to do well, which can feel overwhelming. It’s no surprise that feelings of stress, burnout and loneliness can seep in.
Recent findings by Student Minds indicate that one in four students have a diagnosed mental health condition, highlighting the importance of mental resilience during the university experience.
With such a demanding schedule, it can be easy to overlook personal wellbeing. Here are some simple strategies to support mental health while navigating university life.
- Join a society
Engaging in activities outside of academic responsibilities can have a positive impact on mental health. Whether it’s sports, gaming, music or a university hobby, finding an enjoyable activity can provide a valuable sense of balance.
Joining a society, whether it’s debating, walking, playing Quidditch, or even Lego building, can provide a healthy distraction and boost overall happiness.
- Take some time for yourself
First, getting involved is important, but so is taking a break. University can be non-stop, and it’s easy to feel pressured to say yes to everything. Taking time to rest is just as essential.
If that means spending an evening binge-watching Netflix or treating yourself to some comfort food, go for it. Prioritising self-care can help recharge your energy and prevent burnout.
- Establish a routine
A solid routine can bring much-needed stability to the intensity of university life. Prioritising good sleep, staying hydrated, and adding some extra vitamins and nutrients to your diet can make a real difference (mashed avocado on seeded toast is a healthy example).
It’s also important to set aside time for both studying and the downtime mentioned earlier – finding that balance can help you stay on top of things.
To-do lists can be a game-changer. There’s nothing more satisfying than ticking off those daily essentials.
Having a clear plan for the day creates a sense of structure and control, especially when things start to feel overwhelming. Breaking tasks into smaller, manageable chunks can make even the most daunting deadlines feel more achievable, helping you stay productive without the last-minute panic.
- Connect with others and build a support system
One of the biggest misconceptions students have is thinking they need to handle everything alone, but that’s not the case. Friends, tutors, university wellbeing services, and even your GP are all there to offer support, so don’t hesitate to reach out when needed.
Spending time with others isn’t just enjoyable; it’s great for mental health too! Whether it’s grabbing a smoothie with a classmate, studying in the library with friends, or heading out for a spontaneous night, social connections can boost your mood and make university life more fulfilling.
At times, taking a break from the student bubble can also be beneficial. Catching up with pre-university group chats or engaging with online communities like r/UniversityUK on Reddit can offer a fresh perspective when things feel overwhelming.
And never underestimate the power of a good vent over the phone with a friend from home!
- Use student wellbeing services and mental health resources
Kortext is committed to supporting student success, including mental health. Through our renewed partnership with Student Minds, the student mental health charity, support is always available whenever it’s needed.
Just log into your Kortext account and click through to Student Space, their online hub packed with national support services, helpful info and even a 24/7 text support service. If you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to check out Student Minds for free advice, resources and much more.
You’re not alone. Take breaks, reach out, and most importantly, be kind to your mind – you’ve got this!
