Self-care is so I important! If you’re having a bad day, a low mood, struggling with anxiety, or finding yourself unable to cope, it can have a big effect on your day-to-day life. It’s important that you are using the right tools to help look after your mental health.
We have put below five tips, which you can use, to take care of your mental health!
It’s normal to experience higher anxiety and stress levels during the current climate – after all, it’s not every day that we’re asked to deal with a worldwide pandemic.
However, if you are noticing that you are not able to control your worry, it may be helpful to consult a mental health professional. You should never feel as if you have to apologise for seeking help.
Remember, you do not have to wait until the pandemic is over — many providers are now providing options to meet remotely. You may also want to check out the list of resources The Student’s Union and UWE offer for more long term support, even a one-off chat can help.
Do you like baking, writing, dancing, or painting? Take some time out and do a hobby you really like. Sometimes turning off screens and social media and getting the creative juices flowing can really help you distress. The ones that really force you to use your brain are often the best, as they can distract you from your low mood and lift you right up!
Fresh air and getting out and about can clear your mind and give you those awesome endorphins! If you’re able to, going for a walk to your local park, visiting some gardens, or even just growing some plants on your windowsill can do a world of good. Taking some time to slow down, breathe deeply, and notice the little things can be great for your mental health.
Give your best pal a call – a problem shared is a problem halved! We all need people close to us to chat to and some of the best friendships are made when you have a heart-to-hearts!
There is no shame in seeking help and speaking someone, a doctor, or your tutor can be exactly what you needed. The Students’ Union and UWE Bristol have a range of services available, including our Advice Centre, the UWE Wellbeing Service, and our 24/7 Crisis Textline service.
Advice Team: suadvice@uwe.ac.uk
Our Advice Team is on hand to provide free, non-judgemental and confidential advice. The service is independent of UWE Bristol and all advice is impartial, unbiased, and nothing you tell the team will appear on your UWE Bristol file.
UWE Cares: uwecares@uwe.ac.uk
UWE Carers offers support to students who are leaving care, permanently estranged or separated from their parents, and students who care for an ill or disabled family member.
All other resources can be found at:
https://www.thestudentsunion.co.uk/advice-centre/other-useful-information/