Today is University Mental Health Day, an opportunity for us all to be more open about mental health. Remember, if you are struggling with your mental health, you are not alone. Here at NTU there is support available to you, at the end of the blog there are lots of helpful links to support.

For University Mental Health Day some of our Student Mental Health Champions have shared what they do to look after their mental health while at university:

Priyanka Carsane BA (Hons) Childhood and Psychology

Mental health, what even is it? To me, it’s taking care of your brain the way you take care of your favourite pair of trainers: clean it, love it, and keep it in tip-top shape. One thing I have been doing whilst at uni is positive self-talk. I remind myself that what I say out loud or in my head can either lift me up or make me want to crawl under my duvet forever. I’m not saying ignore the negative, but sometimes it helps to reflect whether on paper, to your pet, or in the mirror. I know it’s not easy to always take a positive stance on everything, but as long as you try – trust me, it works wonders. Then there’s journaling. If you think it’s too long or “cringe”, I say only you get to decide. Even if you journal once a month, at your own speed, it’s like cleaning out the mental fridge: sometimes you find old leftovers, but at least your mind feels fresher. I also follow the “Let Them Theory” book by Mel Robbins. I’m sure you’ve heard of it, and if not, run don’t walk – it’s a total life-changer. It’s about letting yourself feel, reflect, and allowing others to do their thing too. I pair this with reading self-help books, not just for myself but so I can share tips and knowledge with others who might benefit. Think of it as levelling up your brain and then passing the cheat codes to others. As a mental health champion, I know how tough it can be to open up, but I encourage you to reach out, whether it’s just to chat about uni life or to waffle on about food, because who doesn’t love food? I have loads more tips so feel free to come and chat at our upcoming events or connect with me on LinkedIn, I’m always happy to talk and I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Ozcan Inanli, MA Education

To look after my mental health, I spend time in nature spots which help me to feel energised and recharged. Also, I make time to do nothing to self-reflect and sit with my own thoughts in a quiet room alone. I also make time to catch-up and socialise with family, friends and the wider community. I ensure that I’m eating and drinking lots of water regularly as well as making time to travel to different places in the UK to learn about the different local and regional cultures.

Emily Bell, Zoology BSc

University can be both stressful and rewarding, difficult and freeing. Taking care of my mental health during these times is so important. Whilst schedules can become busy it’s important for me to take time to myself, even if I have to say no to plans. Activities can include taking a night to have a long shower, to read a new fantasy book, write in my journal, sit in bed with a Netflix series and popcorn. It’s easy to get caught up in a busy schedule but self care is so important.

For help, advice and resources 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.
HealthyNTU: Advice, tools and activities for your wellbeing
NTSU Information and Advice service
Nottinghamshire Talking Therapies: Support for your Mental Health in Nottingham
Student Minds 10 Keys to happiness
Mind
Papyrus