How to support your wellbeing

These are unusual times, and it’s more important than ever to take care of yourself. For those of you still living here at the University of Birmingham, here are some pointers to help make it all more manageable.

UoB, Hall Reps and Student Mentors: here for you

If you’re feeling lonely or bored, we’re here to help. Your Hall Reps, Student Mentors and the whole Guild team have been working hard to come up with ways to keep you entertained, and help everyone still living on site feel connected.

You’re not alone. Join a virtual coffee break or a live quiz, get some wellbeing support, or find out how to get involved in supporting the community.

Five ways to look after your mental health

Feeling overwhelmed, or just a bit fed up? Here are some great tips to

1: Shower and get dressed

It may seem pointless if you aren’t going to see anyone, but it’ll help you feel clean and awake. Change into fresh clothes too, even if it’s another pair of pyjamas.

2: Create a routine

Give yourself daily tasks that bring you a sense of accomplishment: an online workout, an hour’s study, cooking a meal. Remember to include some things to do just because you want to: watching Netflix, taking a nap or chatting to a friend. Add them all to a To-Do list, and tick them off when you’re done. It’s a really effective way to manage your time when the usual structures aren’t available.

3: Exercise

You know it’ll make you feel better! Find easy workouts online from relaxing yoga to intensive HIIT, all without needing gym equipment. Or keep it simple with a daily walk – a great way to get a change of scene and some fresh air.

4: Volunteer

If you have time to spare, there are plenty of ways to get involved locally. Join a local Facebook group: you might be able to deliver supplies to vulnerable people. If you’d rather stay in, you can offer support over the phone as an NHS volunteer.

5: Get creative

Always wanted to learn something new? Music, cooking, arts and crafts: there are lots of ways to try a new skill even if you’re staying home. Remember, it’s not about being productive or perfectionist: the point is the experience of trying, not the result. Give yourself permission to have a go, for fun.

Food deliveries

If you’ve been missing cooking for yourself and you haven’t been able to order groceries online, you might like to know about the Morrison’s essentials food box scheme. It offers next-day delivery, and should keep you stocked up for one to two weeks.

Find out more about Morrison’s food boxes

Costcutter – Easter opening hours

A big thank you to the Costcutter team at the Vale Village, who are doing an amazing job keeping everyone there safely supplied. Please note these temporary changes to opening hours over Easter:

Fri 10 April – Sunday 19 April: open 11am – 4pm

Normal opening hours will resume on Monday 20 April.