Whether you’ve got exams coming up or assessments due soon, this time of year can be tough. We want to make sure you’re looking after yourself (and your friends) during this demanding time, so to help, we’re sharing some of our top tips.

Check in on someone

Whether it’s friends, flatmates, or course mates, take five minutes today to check in on someone else and ask them how they’re (really) doing. Feeling part of a community and taking the time to think of others can boost your wellbeing. You may even find someone you care about is struggling, and knowing you’ve taken the time to see how they are can go a long way.

Our student content creator Georgia has shared her experience of the value of communication and community – read here for some great advice.

Make sure you take breaks

You’ll hear us say it again and again (and again), but it’s important to schedule in study breaks and actually take them. It’s not healthy to spend too long staring at your screen or textbook, so take some time to step away and do something you enjoy. It could be going for a walk, getting a coffee with friends, reading a book, or whatever it is that will have a positive impact on your mood. Looking for more ideas? Read this post for six ways to take a break.

Do something for your wellbeing

When it comes to your wellbeing, a small action can have a big impact. Our six ways to wellbeing are designed to help you make positive changes to keep you feeling good and living well – especially important during exams and assessments.

Here are some of the positive things you could do:

• Connect with friends and family: feeling close to and valued by others can be key to our happiness. Even when you’re busy studying, remember to catch up with the people you’re close to.

• Take notice: being aware of the present moment and your own feelings and thoughts can help you positively change how you’re feeling about things. You could even try mindfulness apps like Calm or Headspace.

• Be active: Physical activity isn’t just about keeping fit. Research shows that it can help us to think and feel more positively, sleep better, and increase our energy – all really important for your mental and physical wellbeing, even more so during stressful times. May is National Walking Month, so why not use one of your breaks from studying to go for a walk if you’re able to?

• Be healthy: Taking care of yourself by paying attention to nutrition, hydration, getting enough sleep, and looking after your personal safety will all benefit your wellbeing.

Want to hear what other students do for their wellbeing? Our Manchester Voices student podcast has an episode on exam wellbeing which is worth a listen for some first-hand advice.

Reach out for support

If you’re struggling with stress, anxiety, feeling overwhelmed or burnt out, there’s lots of support available to help you. It’s easy to feel alone during stressful times, but remember there’s a whole host of support for you to access whenever you need it, including:

• Student Support Services have a range of resources to look after your wellbeing, including tailored support, workshops, and one-to-one sessions with wellbeing advisors.

• Struggling with revision or need exam support? The Library have specialist help with practical workshops, drop-in support, and revision guides.

• Our ultimate guide to exams rounds up everything you need to know and is a great starting point if you’re feeling lost.

• If you feel you need immediate support, read here for crisis support available for you. We recommend reading through this even if you feel you won’t need it as it could end up helping you or those around you!

Make sure to also listen to your friends – do they sound stressed or like things might be getting too much for them? Send them this link or signpost them to the support available. If you’re struggling to start a conversation about their mental health, read this blog for advice.

Wishing you all the best of luck!