How I manage my mental health

Nobody should feel like they can’t speak to anyone about their mental health or think there isn’t light at the end of the tunnel.

Mental health is complex and needs working on, but you can achieve positive results. I mean, I got into university, so that’s a good enough result for me - proving that there is light at the end of the tunnel!

I'm in ‘remission/recovery’ after being diagnosed with separation and generalised anxiety as a teenager. I usually manage university well but I do have specific triggers, including alcohol, over-tiredness, a want for academic perfection and loneliness. 

Does any of that sound familiar? Let me tell you what helps me manage my mental health:

1. Noticing the signs 

How do you feel? Sometimes, being anxious can feel ‘normal’ when it shouldn’t be. Feeling physically ill is not normal and needs addressing. Acknowledging my anxiety helps me to put the steps in place to stay well.

2. Get out

When I’m feeling anxious, I isolate myself but if your friends invite you out, go! If you’re not comfortable with the plan suggest something else, maybe go for a coffee instead? Short walks even just to the supermarket really help me. No matter how small, achievements shouldn’t be over looked.

3. Taking breaks

When working on an assignment I can sit at a desk for eight hours without a break but this doesn’t help. University can get quite stressful especially once you’re into the swing of everything but having ‘you time’ is deserved and well needed sometimes!

4. Talking openly

To family, friends, a lecturer, university wellbeing services, or anyone I trust. Talking about what’s on your mind really helps to rationalise anxious thoughts. A problem shared is a problem halved - cliché but true.

5. Eating & sleeping properly

Filling my body with good food helps me instantly feel better. If you’re struggling with anxiety, there is the temptation to stay up into the early hours but that’s not productive. A good sleep makes the next day a lot more manageable.

6. Admit that you’re struggling 

Admitting it to yourself and to others can be the hardest step as you don't want to be seen as weak. But it’s not! If you're struggling with extreme feelings of fear around university make sure you talk to someone. Academic tutors, university well-being services, your friends are all there to help.

Now that you’ve settled into university life, you may feel overwhelmed or starting to miss home and you’re not feeling like yourself – if any of Rosie’s blog has struck a chord with you, seek advice.

There are many sources of help and support available: 

• Nightline: is a confidential listening, support and practical information service open at night and run by students for students.

• Samaritans Helpline: is for those who are experiencing high levels of distress. Contact this 24-hour helpline on 08457 909090 or email jo@samaritans.org.

• Please remember your Wellbeing Peers are also available for you, where you can schedule and receive face to face and email support (response via email will not be immediate). You can attend a drop-in session or arrange a time by emailing here4u@arts.ac.uk (please reference your hall in the subject line).
  
  

Image: Hannah Barry Gallery