Self-Care Tips from personal and professional experience
Written by a MSc Child Psychology NTU Alumni
During these unprecedented times, I have realised self-discipline is so important! There have probably been days when you didn’t have anything to look forward too, and as a professional I did too at some point. I procrastinated, slept late, woke up at odd hours. It was too much information which my brain wasn’t ready to process.
It’s important to remind yourself that life moves in cycle, sometimes it’s great for a long time and sometimes it’s bad for a long time. Things happen. If you find yourself struggling being cooped up all day for the foreseeable future. You are not alone! Don’t let fear over power you.
This certainly is a tough time for everyone…
I have been practicing counselling for over three years and at this very crucial time during the pandemic, we are carrying a uniquely different burden right now. While we are contending with our own uncertainty, stress and worry, there are few strategies that can help you maintain your strength and resilience in the coming times:
Time Management
Everyone is experiencing significant disruption to their schedules. However, a framework for structure can help maintain and cultivate habits that promote time management will provide a sense of accomplishment. Take some time to create a schedule that feels feasible while also prioritises the tasks leading to higher productivity levels.
Sleep
My favourite hobby during the pandemic became scrolling the apps for no rhyme or reason and I was a person who used to read a book before sleeping. Trust me guys, it’s a very bad habit. When I interacted with school and university students and noticed that maximum time is spent on the screen and listening to the complaints that we are unable to sleep at night became a common thread! Try to switch off your T.V, mobile phone, laptop at least 15-20 minutes before going to bed. Do something which doesn’t require any screen time as it will help you to sleep better and channel your energy in the morning with a good mood.
Emotions
Everyone has low moments, but recognising and being aware of our emotional self makes all the difference. A good way to express yourself is to keep a journal or a daily diary where you pen down your thoughts. This is a very powerful way to vent and an equally wonderful way to be aware of one’s inner self. Recognise and name the emotions you are experiencing. Check in with yourself, just like you would for a friend. Give yourself permission to feel your feelings, whatever they may be. Practice self-kindness. Treat yourself the way you would treat a friend! This will help you maintain strength and resilience, ultimately enabling you to be a more effective support for others.
Physical activity
This contains so much power! I’m sure you have heard/ or read this 100 times but staying active is one of the most effective ways to stay mentally healthy and to cope with worry, sadness, and isolation. If you don’t want to follow any regime, just trying to get a little bit of exercise in (e.g a short walk) each day can help. It will help you to stay active during the day and make you feel less fatigued. Setting and tracking goals for physical activity can help you get started and achieving even small goals can be empowering.
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Don’t forget that Student Support Services are still here to support you and we are regularly posting through Twitter, Facebook and Instagram as well as over on the Virtual Global Lounge Team
For help and advice whilst studying at NTU, take a look at the following for sources of support.
Support from NTU
Silvercloud: SilverCloud is our online system designed to help with a range of mental health issues.
Depression advice
Counselling
Wellness in Mind: Advice and support for anyone in Nottingham experiencing issues with their mental wellbeing
Struggling at Uni? Go to Student Minds
10 Keys to happiness
Healthy NTU 