Content warning: this article references self-harm and suicide prevention.
This exam period we want to make sure you’ve got the support you need in place so you can look after your wellbeing while sitting your exams and assessments. If you need any tips on how to support a friend, we have six tips to help a stressed out friend and how to start a conversation about mental health, if you feel that someone is dealing with more than exam stress or is finding things particularly hard. This blog we’re focussing on how you can look after yourself, and each other, this exam season – read on to find out more.
We’re in it together
Feeling part of a community can provide a huge boost to your wellbeing. This exam period we want to encourage you to look out for each other and remember how far a small act of kindness can go. Whether it’s taking an extra five minutes to check in on your housemates or starting a conversation with a friend about how they’re feeling – it all counts towards feeling part of our community.
Our student content creator, Georgia, shared her experiences of the value of communication and community – check it out for some great advice.
Take a break
Scheduling in study breaks – and making sure you take them! – can support you to achieve your goals in the long-run. It’s important to find the time for the things you enjoy, even during the exam period. Need some break-time inspiration? Get inspired with more ideas for ways to take a break.
Six ways to wellbeing
When it comes to your wellbeing, a small action can make a big difference. Our six ways to wellbeing are designed to help you make positive changes to keep feeling good and living well at anytime, but during exams you might find the following especially useful:
Connect with others: Feeling close to and valued by others is key to our happiness. Even when you’re busy revising and working remember to catch up with friends and family.
Take Notice: Being aware of the present moment and your own feelings and thoughts, can help you to positively change how you’re feeling about life. Think about trying a mindfulness app such as Calm or Headspace.
Be Active: Physical activity isn’t just about keeping fit. Research shows it can help us to think and feel more positively, sleep better and have more energy which can improve our physical and mental wellbeing. This makes it a great way to take a break from your studies!
Looking for inspiration? Join in on the Manchester Walking Festival walks happening all throughout May or keep it on campus with Sporticipate’s wide and varied range of accessible, inclusive sport and activities for everyone.
Be Healthy: Taking care of yourself by paying attention to nutrition, hydration, getting enough sleep and looking after your personal safety will benefit your wellbeing.
Reach out and get support
It’s easy to feel alone when you’re stressed or burnt out but remember that there’s a whole host of support you can access whenever you need it.
The student support services are here to help with a wide range of resources to support your wellbeing – including tailored support, workshops and 121 sessions with our wellbeing advisors.
If you’re struggling with revision or need exam support, the Library is on hand with specialist help, including practical workshops, drop-in support and revision guides.
Our exam blog rounds up everything you need to know about assessments, so if you’re feeling lost, this is a great starting point and should give you all the practical information you need.
If you’re after immediate support, our crisis support blog sets out how you can get the help you need. Please familiarise yourself with this information so you know how you can help yourself and those around you if needed.
We wish you all the best of luck this exam season!