Today is University Mental Health Day. For this University Mental Health Day Student Minds are doing a 10 minutes a day challenge, getting us to think about what we can do to look after our mental health.

Our Prevention and Development Team have shared what they do to look after their mental health:

Tip 1: Getting Creative

Leah – Student Health and Wellbeing Project Officer

One thing that really helps my mental health is getting creative, whether that’s taking photos, making zines or going along to an exhibition. It’s a great way to just switch off my mind for a bit and have a re-set. NTU have lots of creative opportunities to get involved in through the NTU Arts Programme.

Tip 2: Getting Outside

Kat- Wellbeing Team Leader

One thing that really helps my mental health is getting outside, even if it’s just for a ten-minute walk in the middle of the day – the fresh air can do you wonders. Every time we have a glimmer of sunshine, I try and get out for the Vitamin D.  Nottingham has so many wonderful green spaces in and around the city! Some of my faves are the lake at University of Nottingham, Wollaton Park, and Victoria Embankment, all easy to get to via walking or public transport!

Tip 3: Get Moving

Hayley – Consent & Sexual Violence Development Officer

Sometimes when I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed the best thing I can do is move my body in some way shape or form. This could be booking onto a gym class, hiring a bike and going round Attenborough or some of the other Nottinghamshire green spaces, or even just putting some music and having a dance party in my living room. The endorphin boost does wonders for your mood!

Hire a bike – Transport Nottingham

Tip 4: Listen to Music

Claire – Consent & Sexual Health Programme Coordinator

Every day on my commute to work I listen to whatever music I’m in the mood for – often really loud. It helps set my brain up for the day and create a joyful moment in what might otherwise be a very mundane and dull journey. Mood shifts through music can be very powerful; there’s an interesting technique called the iso principle that I sometimes use to bring myself out of a low mood – I’d recommend reading about it if you’re into music and mental health!

Tip 5: Find a routine

Paul – Student Health Development Officer

My constant is routine. I have a morning routine for my anxiety which includes doing 20 minutes Yoga with Charlie and 10 minutes Mindfulness. I then have a bowl of porridge. There are so many options with porridge my got to is banana, peanut butter or some yogurt topped off with honey yum. I’m already for the day ahead…..winner!

For help, advice and resources whilst studying at NTU, take a look at the following for sources of support.
Support from NTU
Self-Care books in NTU’s libraries
Silvercloud: SilverCloud is our online system designed to help with a range of mental health issues.
Health and Wellbeing resources
NTSU Information and Advice service
Wellness in Mind: Advice and support for anyone in Nottingham experiencing issues with their mental wellbeing
Student Minds or Student Space
10 Keys to happiness
Mind
Papyrus
CALM