Mental Health Holidays are Important Too

The holidays are a great time to relax and recharge, but loads of students spend the time off catching up before exams or finishing coursework assignments. Over time, it’s easy for feelings of stress to build up, sometimes without us realising.

Signs of stress

One easy way to see if you’re stressed is by noticing how it impacts you physically. Take a moment to do a quick body scan. Ask yourself:

• Is my jaw relaxed?
• Are my shoulders tense?
• Am I craving food or not feeling hungry?
• Is my breathing short?
• Am I feeling run down or exhausted?
• Am I getting sick more easily?
• Am I having trouble sleeping?

Stress relief for students

If you notice signs of stress in your body, this can be the first sign to take a break and focus on self-care. Here are some tips for building it into your study schedule:

Set clear boundaries

If you’re revising for exams or working on a piece of coursework, try setting clear start and end times and adding regular breaks every twenty minutes. This structure will allow you to enjoy your time outside of studying and not carry stress throughout the day.

Stay connected 

Spending time with friends and family can help reduce feelings of stress. If you can’t meet in person, consider scheduling video or phone calls with your loved ones.

Turn up the volume

Your favourite song releases dopamine, the feel-good hormone, positively impacting overall wellbeing. Consider making study and winddown playlists to get you in the mood for whatever you do.

Move

Exercise is excellent for the mind and body. Starting an online workout regime or getting outside for runs, walks, or cycling is great - but if that’s not for you, starting small can still have a positive impact. Consider stretching for 5 minutes, doing 5-star jumps every time you finish a chapter, walking around if you’re feeling overwhelmed, or taking 2-minute dance breaks throughout your day. No matter how small, movement can positively impact your mental wellbeing.

Practice mindfulness 

If you notice your mind wandering to the past or future, acknowledge these feelings and re-focus your energy on the present moment. What can you do right now to build joy or relaxation?

While the holidays are a useful time to study, giving yourself a mental health holiday is a positive act of self-care that can help reduce stress and keep you refreshed for next term.

If you’re stressed and struggling to cope, text SHOUT to 85258 for free, confidential support, 24/7.

Visit giveusashout.org for more information.

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