University can be overwhelming, as you're juggling your studies, social life, finances, and everything in between. Knowing how to prioritise and manage your wellbeing is essential, as it can sometimes feel like less of a priority when you have lots going on. We've put together eight of our top tips on how you can improve your wellbeing while at university.
1. Get active
This doesn’t mean you have to run a marathon or join a gym; do what works for you. This could be a walk with friends, a run along the seafront, or a yoga tutorial on YouTube. Walking is a great way to boost your mood and creativity while doing wonders for your physical health. A short walk in between lectures or studying could help relieve stress, help you think clearer, and boost brain activity. We also have a range of sports teams and activities you can get involved in with Team Sunderland.
2. Join a club or society
Do you have an interest or hobby you're passionate about? We probably have a society for it, and if not, you can create your own! Pursuing your hobbies and getting involved with a club or society can be a great way to make some new friends and improve your wellbeing. We have a huge range of societies including the Hedgehog Society, Feminist Society, Movie Society, and more! Our SU is also a great way to get involved in any exciting activities or events we're running.
3. Stay connected
Staying connected with others can help tackle feelings of loneliness and boost our self-esteem. Reaching out to friends and family now and again could help ease any worries you might be having and it’s good to chat to people who know you best. Read more about how to deal with homesickness at university. Also, try and chat to new people and make new friends. Although it can be daunting, most people are in the same position as you, so be sure to say hi to the person you’re sitting next to in your lecture, or if you’re feeling extra brave, you could ask how they are or how their day is going.
4. Set small, achievable goals
Healthy habits are an amazing way to form good routines and all-round better wellbeing. For example, if you enjoy reading but can’t find the time, can you challenge yourself to read two pages a day? Or, if you know you need to drink more water, why not set yourself a goal of drinking a whole glass when you wake up? This could be applied to studying too, like setting yourself a small goal of 30 minutes of revising or reading per day.
5. Take breaks
Working or studying relentlessly isn’t good for anyone and you should prioritise breaks, whether that be a five minute break from studying or turning your laptop off at 5pm and switching off for the evening. Breaks have been shown to have a positive effect on our productivity and wellbeing as it enables us to switch off and recharge our minds.
6. Sleep
Making sure you get plenty of sleep is essential to your wellbeing. Too many nights on the town mixed with 9am lectures will catch up to you (just ask third years!) Try and maintain a good sleep routine by going to bed and waking up at the same time every day if possible. Also, try and have a lie in at weekends or even naps after lectures. Sleep is key for your memory and reducing stress and anxiety. Without it, we can experience a low mood, brain fog, and other negative effects on our health.
7. Get support
If you’re feeling low, the best thing you can do is talk to someone about it. A problem shared is a problem halved. There are lots of people you can talk to at Sunderland, but top of that list is our Wellbeing Support team. They’re on campus five days a week and are trained to help you with any problems you may be facing. Find out more about our wellbeing team and the services they offer.
8. Have fun!
You’re at university, potentially experiencing some of the best years of your life. You don’t want to look back and think “I wish I went out more or joined a club!” Take that leap, meet that friend for a coffee, join that team, start that society. Have fun and enjoy your time at Sunderland!
Find our more about the student support we offer at Sunderland.
Published: 23 October 2023