Looking after your mental health while studying

Navigating the world of further or higher education can be both exhilarating and challenging. Alongside the academic pressures of lectures, assignments and exams, students often face a range of other stressors, from financial worries and social anxieties to the general transition into independent living.

It’s no surprise, then, that maintaining good mental health during this period is crucial.

Why is it important for me to look after my mental health at university?

University and college life is often portrayed as a whirlwind of exciting new experience, academic challenges and personal growth. While this is undoubtedly true for many, it’s also a period of significant transition and potential stress. Looking after your mental health during this time isn’t a luxury, it’s a crucial foundation for academic success, personal wellbeing and a positive overall student experience.

The pressures of college and university life can be multifaceted. Academic demands, including challenging coursework, exams and the pressure to succeed, can all take their toll. Financial worries, adjusting to independent living, navigating new social dynamics and being away from your established support network can also contribute to feelings of anxiety, stress and even loneliness. These challenges are perfectly normal and experiencing them doesn’t mean you’re failing. However, neglecting your mental health can significantly impact your ability to cope with these pressures and thrive in your studies and personal life.

Prioritising your mental wellbeing offers a range of benefits. It can improve your academic performance by enhancing concentration, focus and memory. When you’re feeling mentally well, you’re better equipped to handle academic pressures and engage effectively with your studies. Furthermore, good mental health develops emotional resilience, allowing you to navigate setbacks and challenges with greater confidence. It can also enhance your social connections and overall sense of belonging with the academic community, leading to a richer and more fulfilling student experience.

Crucially, addressing your mental health proactively can prevent issues from escalating. Early intervention and support can make a significant difference in managing mental health challenges and preventing them from becoming more serious. By prioritising your wellbeing, yoi’re investing in your future and equipping yourself with the tools and strategies to navigate the ups and downs of student life and beyond.

Remember, looking after your mental health is not a sign of weakness, it’s a sign of strength and self-awareness.

How common are mental health issues at university?

It’s important to understand that you’re not alone if you’re struggling with your mental health at university or college. Student life, while exciting, can also be incredibly challenging and experiencing mental health difficulties is more common than you might think. In a 2022 survey by Student Minds, they found that a significant proportion of students experience mental health issues, with many reporting feelings of anxiety, depression and stress. The pressures of academic work, financial worries, navigating new social situations and living independently can all contribute to these challenges.

While precise figures fluctuate, studies consistently highlight that a substantial number of students experience some form of mental health difficulty. This can range from feeling overwhelmed and stressed during exam periods to experiencing more persistent and serious conditions like depression or anxiety disorders. It’s crucial to remember that these feelings are valid, and seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Colleges and universities are increasingly aware of these challenges and are working to provide resources and support systems to their students.

What causes poor mental wellbeing among students?

University and college life can be incredibly exciting and rewarding, but it also presents unique challenges that can impact your mental wellbeing. It’s important to understand the potential stressors you might face so you can better prepare and seek support when it’s needed. Several factors can contribute to poor mental wellbeing among students:

• Academic pressures

The pressure to succeed academically is often a significant source of stress. This can include worries about exams, assignments, meeting deadlines and achieving your desired grades. The competitive environment of further and higher education can exacerbate these feelings.

• Financial concerns

Many students experience financial difficulties, which can be a major contributor to stress and anxiety. Tuition fees, living expenses and the pressure to manage a budget can b overwhelming.

• Social adjustments

Starting college or university often involves moving away from home, building new friendships and navigating unfamiliar social situations. Feeling isolated, experiencing homesickness or struggling to fit in can negatively impact mental wellbeing.

• Lifestyle change

Students often experience significant lifestyle changes, which can be disruptive. This might include irregular sleep patterns, changes in diet, increased alcohol consumption or experimenting with drugs. These changes can negatively affect both physical and mental health.

• Uncertainty for the future

The pressure to decide on a career path and the uncertainty about the future after graduation can be a significant source of anxiety for students.

• Pre-exiting mental health conditions

Some students may enter college of university with a pre-existing mental health condition(s), which can be further challenged by the stresses of student life. It’s crucial to continue accessing support and treatment for these conditions while studying.

• Lack of support

Feeling unsupported by family, friends or the institution itself can significantly impact mental wellbeing. Knowing where to find support and feeling comfortable seeking help is essential.

It’s important to remember that experiencing some stress and anxiety during your students is normal. However, if these feelings become persistent or overwhelming, it’s important to seek help. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the college or universities support services or using the Student Assistance Programme.

Why good mental health is important for study?

Studying at university of college can be both exciting and challenging. While academic success is a primary goal, it’s important to recognise that your mental wellbeing plays a fundamental role in achieving it. Good mental health isn’t simply the absence of mental health problems, it’s a state of overall wellbeing that enables you to thrive in your studies and beyond. Prioritising your mental health is not a sign of weakness, but rather a proactive step towards maximising your potential and enjoying a fulfilling student experience.

Several interconnected factors highlight the importance of good mental health for effective study:

• Improved concentration and focus

When your mental health is suffering, it can be incredibly difficult to concentrate on lectures, reading or even assignments. Stress, anxiety and low mood can significantly impair your ability to absorb and process information, leading to decreased academic performance. A positive mental state, on the other hand, provides clarity of mind and enhances your ability to focus, leading to more effective learning.

• Enhanced memory and recall

Mental wellbeing is closely linked to cognitive function, including memory and recall. Chronic stress and anxiety can negatively impact these cognitive processes, making it harder to remember key concepts and perform well in exam. By prioritising your mental health, you’re supporting your brain’s ability to function optimally, improving your memory and recall abilities.

• Increased motivation and engagement

Maintaining good mental health can significantly boost your motivation to learn and engage with your studies. When you feel mentally well, you’re more likely to be enthusiastic about your subject, participate in discussions and persevere through challenging coursework. Conversely, poor mental health can lead to feeling of apathy, disinterest and even withdrawal from your studies.

• Better time management and organisation

Stress and anxiety can often lead to procrastination and difficulty managing time effectively. A clear and focused mind, facilitated by good mental health, allows you to organise your workload, prioritise tasks and stick to deadlines. This contributes to a less stressful and productive study routine.

• Resilience to stress and pressure

Student life inevitably comes with its share of stress and pressure, from exams and assignments to social and financial concerns. Strong mental health equips you with the resilience to navigate these challenges effectively. It allows you to develop healthy coping mechanisms, manage stress constructively and bounce back from setbacks, ultimately contributing to your overall academic success and wellbeing.

Investing in your mental health is an investment in your academic success. By prioritising your wellbeing, you’re creating a solid foundation for effective learning, improved academic performance, and a more fulfilling student experience.

What are the warning signs?

Often, changes in our mental wellbeing creep up gradually, however, it is helpful to be aware of potential warning signs.

Some of the common warning signs that you can look after in yourself, friends and peers include:

• Changes in mood

Feeling persistently low, irritable, anxious or overwhelmed. Unexplained tearfulness or a sense of hopelessness or despair are also red flags.

• Changes in sleep patterns

Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep or sleeping significantly more than usual. Feeling constantly tired even after rest.

• Changes in appetite

Noticeable changes in eating habits, such as eating significantly more or less than usual. Loss of appetite or comfort eating can both be indicators.

• Difficulty concentrating

Struggling to focus on studies, assignments, or even everyday tasks. Finding it hard to make decisions or feeling easily distracted.

• Social withdrawal

Isolating yourself from family and friends, avoiding social events, or losing interest in activities you used to enjoy.

• Decline in academic performance

A noticeable drop in grades or a struggle to keep up with coursework, despite putting in effort. Missing deadlines or skipping lectures more frequently.

• Physical symptoms

Unexplained aches and pains, headaches, stomach problems or a racing heart. These can sometime be physical manifestations of stress and anxiety.

• Negative thoughts

Recurring negative thoughts about yourself, your abilities or the future. Self-criticism, self-doubt and feeling worthlessness.

This is not an exhaustive list, these are just some of the common challenges that students may experience.

How to look after my mental health at university?

University life can be exciting, but it also presents unique challenges to your mental wellbeing. Juggling academic pressures, new social environments, financial concerns and living independently can sometimes feel overwhelming. You need to prioritise your mental health for academic success and overall happiness.

Build a support network

• Connect with others

Join clubs or societies that align with your interests. This is a great way to meet like-minded people and build up friendships. Don’t be afraid to have conversations in your shared accommodation or even after lectures.

• Talk to your tutor and/or support services

Colleges and universities offer a range of support services from counselling and wellbeing workshops to academic advice. Your personal tutor can be a valuable point of contact for guidance and support.

• Stay connected with home

While embracing student life, it is important to maintain connections with family and friends back home. Regular phone calls, video calls or even visiting can help provide a sense of stability and support.

Manage stress and pressure

• Prioritise and plan: Break down large assignments into smaller, manageable tasks. Create a study schedule and stick to it as much as possible to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

• Practice time management Learn to manage your time effectively to balance study, social activities and personal time. Don’t be afraid to say no to things if you’re feeling that it’s too much.

• Take breaks Regular breaks are essential for maintaining focus and stopping your from burning out. When you have a break, step away from your studies and do something you enjoy. Catch up with friends, listen to music or even go for a walk.

• Explore mindfulness and relaxation Practise mindfulness, meditation or deep breathing, if you’re not sure where to start, the Wisdom App from Health Assured is packed full of resources to help you learn mindfulness and relaxation.

Prioritise your physical health

• Eat a balanced diet Nourishing your body with healthy foods can improve your mood, energy levels and overall wellbeing. Try to avoid ultra processed foods. If you’re not much of a cook or never cooked before, there are loads of healthy recipes on the Wisdom app.

• Get enough sleep Sleep is crucial for you to function at your best, aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night. Try and establish a regular sleep schedule and create a relaxing nighttime routine will help improve your sleep quality.

• Exercise regularly Dependent upon your ability, try and have some regular exercise. Whether that’s going to the gym, joining a sports club, going for a walk or whatever you can do, this will help boost your mood, reduce stress and improve your overall health.

Seeking help when you need it

• Don’t be afraid to ask for help If you’re struggling with your mental health, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Talk to a friend, family member, or someone from the support services at your college or university, can make a big difference.

• Know where to find support Familiarise yourself with the support services at your college or university, health centres or you can speak to a qualified counsellor via the Wisdom app, who are available 24/7, so you always have someone to speak to.

• Remember, you’re not alone Many students experience mental health challenges during their time at university or college. Talking about your experiences can help reduce stigma and encourage others to seek help.

Conclusion

Maintaining good mental health while studying is crucial for academic success and overall wellbeing. The pressures of university or college life, from the demanding workloads and financial worries to social adjustments and exam stress, can significantly impact mental wellbeing.

By prioritising self-care, building a strong support network and utilising the resources available, students can navigate these challenges effectively. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness, it is a sign of strength. Whether you’re talking to a friend, family member or professional, support is available.