A student’s guide to taking care of your mental health whilst at university

Hi, my name is Hannah, and I am a Mental Health Nursing Student at Wrexham University. I have written this blog to provide some advice and tips on how to take care of your mental health whilst at university.

Going to university can be a scary, but exciting process. From the day you start your degree to the end of your course when you graduate, university can sometimes feel overwhelming.

Managing your mental and physical health should always be a priority in order to keep yourself safe and healthy. Here are my top tips!

1. Manage your physical health

Managing your physical health can have a massive impact on your overall mental health too!

It is important that, whilst you are at university, you learn to manage your physical health. At the start of the year, ‘Fresher’s Flu’ often occurs which can sometimes make you feel unwell, as well as the usual winter bugs! During the winter months, it is recommended to keep yourself warm, safe and healthy, by layering up when walking outside, drinking plenty of water and resting when you are feeling unwell. 

Top tip: When starting university for the first time (or returning to university after the summer) ensure that you have registered at a local General Practitioners (GP) in case you do become unwell during your time at university!

2. Find hobbies

As much as university is about studying, gaining a degree and exploring the world as an adult, it is important to find hobbies and interests outside of your university studies. You can use these hobbies as a way to relax your mind and body, and to reduce the likelihood of getting overwhelmed with academic work or clinical placements.

Try new hobbies such as running, going to the gym, painting, artwork or reading. This is also a brilliant way to make friends outside of your degree! You can start by reaching out to the Students Union and seeing what societies and clubs they offer.

Top Tip: Try starting a new hobby or joining a society to find something you enjoy!

3. Manage your time and assignments wisely

At university, it’s important to manage your time and assignments wisely - it is quite easy to get yourself worked up or overwhelmed by the amount of work you may have to do otherwise! To combat this, find ways to manage your week, such as using a diary, having a whiteboard with your deadlines on, or having a wall calendar.

Top tip: Carry a diary with you so you know important dates and your timetable at all times.

4. Get outdoors

Sometimes, we forget how much fresh air and being surrounded by nature can have a positive impact on us. Especially if you have spent the whole day indoors! Try spending an hour or so outside a day and you’ll see how much of an impact it can have on your overall health and wellbeing.

Top tip: Wrap up warm in the winter months to avoid getting unwell!

5. Seek support and help if you feel you need it

Never be afraid to ask for support and help if you feel you need it. At Wrexham University, there is a wide range of pastoral support available for all students. Ranging from 1-1 counselling sessions, support groups and awareness sessions. Find something that is right for you!

Alternatively, contact your General Practitioner for more information on how to manage your mental health and wellbeing.

Top tip: Never be afraid to ask!

6. Talk to your friends and family

Starting (or returning) to university can be quite daunting, and can sometimes make you miss home. Phoning your family and friends for a catch-up and seeing how they are can help combat homesickness.

Top tip: Attempt to phone a family member or a friend once a week.  

Why study at Wrexham University?

Now that I am in my second year of study at Wrexham University, I am incredibly settled and feeling grateful for the support and guidance Wrexham University has to offer. Starting university can be a scary process, but it is amazing to try new things, step out your comfort zone and attempt every opportunity given to you. I am loving my time at university and can’t wait to see what the future holds!

- Written by Hannah, BN (Hons) Mental Health Nursing student

To learn more about studying at Wrexham University and the support network available, chat to a current student or come along to one of our upcoming open days to speak to our friendly lecturers and support teams.