Health and wellbeing
University life is exciting, but it’s also a time of change that can sometimes feel overwhelming. That’s why prioritising your health and wellbeing is essential to make the most of your student experience. Whether it’s maintaining good mental health, staying active, or practicing self-care, taking small steps can make a big difference.
This guide will help you navigate the challenges of student life, offering advice and resources to support your physical and emotional wellbeing. Remember, looking after yourself is the foundation for success both at university and beyond.
Mental health is an important aspect of student life, and it’s normal to feel stressed or anxious at times. The key is recognising when you need support and taking steps to address it. From seeking professional help to practising mindfulness and talking to friends, there are many ways to prioritise your mental wellbeing.
Lola's top tips to
manage student stress
- Have a playlist of music you like on hand
- Make sure you stay hydrated
- Try keep healthy snacks around you when studying
- Take frequent breaks, go for a walk or sit outside for five minutes where possible to clear your brain.
- Plan ahead and make sure you leave plenty of time for work, cramming makes everything more stressful
Staying active can help you feel energised, boost your mood, and improve your overall health. Whether it’s joining a gym, taking up a sport, or even going for a daily walk, there are plenty of ways to fit exercise into your schedule. The key is finding an activity you enjoy and making it a regular part of your routine.
Student lifestyle habits to boost your overall wellbeing
The most popular university sports in the UK revealed!
Self-care tips for students
Start by organising your time with a study schedule and breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps. Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or yoga, and make time for hobbies and socialising. If stress feels overwhelming, don’t hesitate to reach out to your university’s counselling services.
Simple recipes like pasta with vegetables, stir-fries, or wraps with protein and salad are quick, nutritious, and affordable. Meal prepping on weekends can also save time during the week, helping you stay on track with healthy eating.
Set boundaries between study time and leisure activities by planning your day in advance. Schedule regular breaks and include activities you enjoy to recharge. Remember, it’s about quality, not just quantity, when it comes to both work and relaxation.
Talk to someone you trust, like a friend, family member, or university support staff. Many universities offer free counselling or wellbeing services for students. Reaching out can be a big step toward feeling better and finding the right support.
Set small, achievable goals, like walking for 20 minutes a day or preparing one healthy meal each week. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and remind yourself that taking care of your health is an investment in your future.
Student wellness is all about balancing the demands of university life with taking care of yourself. From managing stress to eating well and finding time to relax, self-care is crucial to staying healthy and happy during your studies. Prioritising your wellbeing will not only help you academically but also ensure you have a positive and fulfilling university experience.
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Can I get free therapy as a student?
A student’s guide to ‘Hangxiety’
Why Unifresher?
At Unifresher, we understand student life because our guides are written by students, for students. From nightlife and local advice to saving money and finding hidden gems, every article is designed to make your university experience unforgettable.
Featured student writers
Our content is for students, written by students.
Hi I’m Thea! I'm an undergrad anthropology student at the SOAS. I love all things pop culture, going to concerts, journaling and reading romance books.
Top tip for students? Time management is key - waiting until the deadline to start your assignment will only make your life harder (trust me I would know).
Hi I’m Sophie! I’m a creative writing student currently studying in London. I love writing both fiction ranging from short stories to flash fiction and non-fiction consisting mainly of book reviews. In my spare time aside from writing fiction I'm usually head down into a book or two.
Top tip for students? You deserve to be exactly where you are and deserve to want more. Always be willing to take on opportunities that will help you move forward in your career.
Hi I'm Mia, a History & Sociology Student studying in Manchester. My current favourite hobby is taking photos of rave culture at events with my friends in the city, as an EDM music lover myself. I love to post my pictures on my personal blog and fall into wormholes on Pinterest. If I'm not with a camera in hand, I'm probably curled up with a cuppa creating another vision board collage.
Top tip for students? Don't let bad grades in your first year get you down too much. It is such a huge step up from the school system and everyone, even the overachievers (me) need time to adjust. Academic validation isn't everything, but you are capable of anything if you take it one step at a time!
Hi I'm Amy, a University of Salford BA Film Production student. I have a strong passion for creative writing; whether it be scripts or fiction, I can turn almost anything into a story if given the opportunity. Outside of my studies I enjoy reading, taking sky pictures and playing DnD with my friends.
Top tip for students? Don't let any doubt or fear you have take over. You are exactly where you deserve to be. Take university by the horns and make it the experience you want it to be, not what others want it to be.
Hi, I'm Rachel! I'm a student at the University of Exeter and I study French and International Relations. When I'm not doing my seminar prep, I'm either reading a good fiction book, listening to a pop culture podcast or on the New York Times website! I enjoy writing the articles and guides I wished I had when I first started university.
Top tip for students? Make use of your professors' office hours as much as you can!
I'm Lola, an English Literature student in Bangor University. I'm passionate about Wesh culture, and poetry.
Top tip for students? Always make sure you find a good study space! It'll help you get your work done easier.
Hi, I'm Aiden! I'm a student at the University of Manchester studying Medicine! I'm passionate about writing and sharing my experiences to try and keep students well-informed. When I'm not in lecture or at the library, you can find me spending time with my friends, hiking on a scenic trail in the Peak District or in my flat's common room writing with a snack in hand.
Top tip for students? Ask why and how, and link new material to things you already know; don't just commit things to memory. A deeper understanding will help you remember, apply, and perform better.
