Looking after your mental health
Simple small changes can make a big difference to your mental health and wellbeing. We've come up with a few changes you could make today to make a positive difference.
Talk!!
Talking about how you feel can help you deal with those difficult times. Just like you can become physically ill, you can become mentally unwell also, so talking about it is important. You don't have to talk to an expert either, just talking to a friend or family member could make you feel much better, knowing there is somewhere there to support you.
Talking about your feelings helps break down the stigma of mental health.
Exercise
Although we don't always want to be active- especially when we're feeling down, exercise is one of the best things you can do for your mental health. While exercising, 'feel good' chemicals are released in your brain. It also keeps you physically fit, which increases your confidence and helps reduce illness.
Regular exercise can reduce stress, anxiety, fatigue and help you sleep better
Drink sensibly
We often drink alcohol to change our mood, however the effect is only temporary and can leave us feeling low. Drinking often or heavily has a huge negative effect on our mental health.
The Mental Health Foundation have an excellent guide about alcohol and its effects on mental health which can be viewed here.
Sleep
Getting the right amount of sleep is vital to mental wellbeing. Lack of sleep or sleeping too much can be both a symptom and cause of mental health problems.
Check out Mind's guide 'How to cope with sleep problems' for practical tips of how to establish a good sleep routine.
Ask for help
When the going gets tough asking for help is nothing to be ashamed of. Friends and family are a good starting point, but sometimes you may want to talk to someone else.
The University Counselling Service provides a confidential service and is available free of charge to all students.