It’s no secret that university can get stressful at times.
Trying to stay on top of all your assignments, earning money around study and class hours and maintaining a social life is no easy task. However, a few simple steps can be taken to help reduce stress and ensure that you're organised and refreshed during studies. Here are some easy ways to plan ahead and look after yourself.
1. Prepare a study plan and goals for each day / week. Make sure it's balanced with other important things in your life – that way it will be easier to stick to.
2. Talk to your employers early to let them know you need to limit your shifts/hours while studying.
3. Create a study space that is comfortable, quiet, well lit, organised, and has no distractions nearby such as a TV, phone, people talking, etc.
4. Don't get hungry before or while studying. Grab nutritional snacks that keep you going, such as fruit/nuts/dairy, etc. Fill up on good food (like veggies, fruit, whole grains) and drink plenty of water to give your body and brain all the power it needs to function well.
5. Get enough sleep. Getting enough sleep is good for your brain and body, and helps you feel energised, stay focused and protect your mental health.
6. Every day, do at least one activity that you find relaxing – for example, aromatherapy, going for a walk, listening to music, gardening, reading for enjoyment, keeping a personal journal or diary or playing with your pets.
Work out which issues are causing you stress and try to address them. For example, if you are having problems with a particular subject or assignment, talk to your lecturer or other students about it. If you feel you are struggling or slipping behind, contact JMC student support
for academic support sessions, which is available to all JMC students on campus free of charge.
8. Keep up regular exercise such as walking, swimming, jogging or gym work – perhaps using it as a break from study. Benefits of regular exercise include improved energy and sleep, which are vital in helping to stay on top of stress.
9. Feeling connected to others is an essential part of being human. So spending time with friends and family (including pets) and people in your community in between study sessions can really strengthen your mental health and wellbeing.