Written by Lewis Donaldson
University is an exciting chapter of our lives – but it can also bring with it stressful times.
Whether it’s starting out at uni, relationships, work, family or your studies, I’ve compiled some tips to help you boost your mood during those tougher moments.
Music
I find music to be the GREATEST mood lifter. Studies have revealed that music even helps reduce depression and anxiety. How good’s that!?
Music is not only used to distract from daily stresses, but can reduce burnout and make it easier to fall asleep. I can’t stress the amount of times music has helped me out.
From my experience (and I’m sure you’d agree too), when you’re feeling down, don’t play sad, depressing songs. Play something upbeat, inspirational and perhaps a little fast-paced!
Meditation
Sometimes we just need to take a small break out of our busy days to refocus. We can get so caught up in life that the mind gets left behind.
Feeling stressed or overwhelmed? Try meditation. Take 5 minutes alone to close your eyes, focus on your breathing and tune into your senses.
Of course, there’s plenty of sites online that you can visit to get you started. I personally quite like what headspace has to offer.
Gratitude
Don’t dwell on everything you don’t have or what’s gone wrong. Look at the things you have that others around the world might not.
Don’t be limited to ‘shelter’, ‘family’ and ‘friends’. Dive into character traits, reflect on your childhood or consider your ability to read this blog (let alone access it).
By practising gratitude daily, you can reduce stress, increase your happiness, mental wellbeing and life satisfaction.
Say to yourself 3 things you’re grateful for before getting out of bed. Even better – write them down and stick them to your desk so they act as a frequent reminder.
Exercise
A weapon against stress. The focus involved with physical activity clears your mind and the feel-good chemicals produced will help rid stress.
Get outside and go for a walk. Forget about your phone. Tune into your senses. Feel the wind, listen to the wildlife and concentrate on the smells.
You’ll realise how caught up we can get in our own little worlds. Sometimes stepping outside is all that’s needed to help us reset!
Additionally, you can head to the gym, go to the pool or play social sport with friends.
Enjoy Yourself
When was the last time you had a good laugh? The last time you really enjoyed yourself?
Sometimes we get so caught up in day-to-day life that we forget to look after ourselves. Now, you’re a bit stressed and you’ve come to this blog for help.
Do something fun – whatever you enjoy most. Catch up with friends, read, enjoy a night out, exercise or watch your favourite movie (nothing beats watching Shrek).
More Support
If you’re looking for a bit more support than the tips provided above, Charles Sturt offers a range of support services.
These services include student counseling, mentoring and mental health resources as well as a range of other services.
Additionally, there are countless other support services out there. Some of these include:
● Lifeline
● Black Dog Institute
● MindSpot
● Headspace
● 1800RESPECT
Charlie blog is a SSAF funded initiative.
