Looking after your wellbeing during the summer break

Whether you have exams or your dissertation to work on, Erin from our Wellbeing Team has some advice on how you can look after yourself and flourish.

After a busy academic year, the summer holidays are a chance to unwind, relax and recharge.

However, for some students the change in routine can be a bit overwhelming. You might find yourself with a lot of free time or missing your uni friends or family. Some of you might be busy revising or studying for summer assessments.

Whether you’re still working away or finding it hard to fill your time, here are some helpful tips to boost your mental health and wellbeing. 

Stay active 

It can be tempting to stay in bed watching Netflix when you’re out of a routine, but it’s important that you stay motivated.

One of the best ways to do that is to plan time in your day to do some physical activity – whether that’s a trip to the gym or trying something new like swimming or cycling.

If you’re on campus or local, Sport & Fitness have a range of student memberships that you can look into.

But being active doesn’t have to be anything strenuous either. Spending some time outside and walking for about 15-30 minutes is a great way to clear your mind, reduce stress and improve your mood.

If you’re spending most of your summer sat behind a desk, check out these activities that can be done without any special equipment and without any cost.

Two male students sitting on a gym machine talking to each other

Take a break from tech 

Whether it’s our laptops, phones or TVs, some of us end up spending a lot of time looking at our screens daily. If you’re feeling a little low, a digital detox in your day can help to boost your mood.

Start off with limiting your usage and find a hobby to fill the time. It can be something as simple as having a pamper session, visiting a free museum and gallery, going out for food – either with friends or on a solo date or even reading a good book. Student Lucy has some great self-care tips if you need some inspiration.

Make fun plans 

Although the British weather can be unpredictable, summer provides an opportunity to make plans with friends, old and new. Having something to look forward to can really lift your mood. Making plans doesn’t have to be expensive too.

If the weather app is showing sunshine, why not grab some snacks and a blanket and head down to your local park or field for a picnic? The UK also has lots of free museums and galleries including a few on campus to explore if it’s raining.

Don’t forget to make use of your student status for discounts. Apps such as UniDays, Student Beans and TOTUM UK have lots of offers on food and travel. For cheaper train travel, invest in a Railcard and book tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of travel.

On campus? Keep an eye on our events and activities page to see what you can get involved in for free (unless stated otherwise).

Female student is looking at a painting of a woman in a red dress

Seek support

We’re still here for you over the summer.

If you think it would be helpful to talk to someone about how you’re feeling or what you’re going through, support is available.

UBHeard is a free confidential listening and support service for all registered students (undergraduate and postgraduate) that gives you immediate emotional and mental health support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Call the service on 0800 368 5819 (Freephone UK*) or 00353 1 518 0277 (International), or visit the UBHeard portal (you can easily create an account with your UoB email address). You can also Text ‘Hi’ to +44 74 1836 0780 for SMS & WhatsApp Support (standard rates apply) or contact UBHeard via Live Chat.

You can find a full list of our support services over on our Time to Talk? intranet page.

Our Cost of Living Support page also has more tips and guidance to help you save and manage your money, as well as guidance on financial help.

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