We’ve created Top 10 tips for a happy you as a guide in keeping mentally healthy and balanced.
Download it and keep it near by for helpful information of being a healthy version of wonderful you.
01. Have some Good Mood Food
Eating five pieces of fruit or veg a day to stay healthy is not just good for our bodies. Eating healthily prevents you feeling sluggish and tired, increases your concentration and can give you the much needed energy to stay awake for the last ten minutes of that Friday afternoon lecture.
02. Exercise
Ok, so sweating it out at the gym every day may not be everyone’s idea of fun, but just walking more, or even having a dance around your halls, can actually make you feel happier.
Joining a sports team or a walking group will also give you the chance to meet people and try new things. Exercise, even done moderately, releases endorphins in the brain, stimulating a better mood.
03. Socialise without alcohol
Socialising can also be beneficial to you, but this doesn’t always have to involve alcohol. Although you may think a drink will help you forget your worries, it can actually do the opposite.
Alcohol is not a stimulant it is a depressant drug. Like everything, alcohol should be consumed in moderation and not used as an escape from worries or mental health concerns. Visit www.drinkaware.co.uk for further information on alcohol and your recommended alcohol intake.
04. Spend time laughing
Having a laugh is always a good way to improve your mood. Spending time with friends and family can make you feel good about yourself and life in general.
An easy way to do this is by joining a society at your students’ association – whether you want to join a society related to your degree or a random interest, you’re bound to find something you like!
05. Live well
Your mental health is influenced by your surroundings, so try to make your living space somewhere you want to be. Put photos on your wall, make your room comforting and make sure your halls or flat is good enough for you to be living in.
Managing your money is really important too – debt and financial difficulties are very stressful. Living well doesn’t mean spending lots. Being with friends and taking care of yourself can be done within a budget. For advice on finance or housing visit: www.adviceguide.org.uk
06. Take a break
Make sure you don’t over do it. Being a student does mean revision, coursework and exams but try to take breaks in between to keep a good balance between work and social time. Take a walk and get some fresh air
– being in green spaces can help lift your mood.
07. Volunteer
Make the most of your spare time and do something fun. Volunteering isn’t just something good to write on your CV, it’s a great way to make new friends, learn new skills and do something for others.
Your students’ association will be able to help you find a project suited to you. There’s lots you can do, from being a course rep to campaigning for a good cause.
Talk to your students’ association about how you can get involved. If you want to volunteer in your local community you should contact your local volunteer centre. More information can be found at volunteerscotland.org.uk
08. Support network
It’s important to know where to go for support. Whether you just want to talk to someone, or need help with a specific issue, there is always someone to offer support and advice.
Friends and family are often your first contact. Learn to be honest with them about what is going on, and share your problems with each other. If you feel you need some extra support, there are plenty of orgnisations out there that can help you.
At the end of this leaflet you will find a card to cut out and keep with our website details on. This has more information on where to find support. Keep it in your wallet, as you never know when you might need it.
Also, take time to familiarise yourself with the support services at your college/university and the support the students’ association can provide.
09. Remember the good
It can be easy to let the bad things overshadow your day and forget the little things that make you smile, especially when times are tough. Try to get into the habit of ending your day on a positive. Before you go to bed, write down the good things that have happened to make you smile.
10. Get some sleep
Sleeping and student life don’t always seem to go together, but you should aim for about eight hours every night. A lack of sleep not only causes tiredness but
has been associated with mental health problems.
