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Five steps to good mental health – by NTU student Alex Mills

Published: 24/11/2021

Third year Broadcast Journalism student and Student Mental Health Champion, Alex Mills, shares her tips for maintaining good mental health while at university.

Five steps to good mental health

1. Try to take regular walks

Life in Nottingham can be very busy and it can be tempting to Uber or take the tram everywhere. But try to walk as often as possible. Take note of your surroundings when you do this and try ground yourself. Taking time to reflect upon your mental state and how things are going in your life can often help to calm you.

2. Be active

Even if you don't want to take on a sport, going for a run or doing some yoga can allow you to create endorphins and when you have those rushing around your body, it can make you feel more positive.

3. Get a good amount of sleep

University can bring a lot of work to your plate, especially mixed with joining new societies. However, try to get at least eight hours of sleep every night, as a tired student is an unhappy student. I understand this cannot always be easy, but even taking a nap during the day can often help keep you refreshed and on your ‘A’ game!

4. Live healthy

Cutting down on caffeine and alcohol can actually have a positive effect on your wellbeing. Having caffeine withdrawals and being hungover can lead to you feeling down and lethargic. Making small healthier habits can give your wellbeing a positive boost too.

5. Connect with people

Whether it’s friends or just people on your course, talking to people can distract you from things that may be stressing you out. Try to make conversation with people you don’t know, they can actually end up being really interesting!

About Student Mental Health Champions

Our Student Mental Health Champions help to promote the support available to students at NTU, as well as helping to run many different wellbeing activities and events throughout the academic year. Champions are also provided with nationally recognised training opportunities to help further their knowledge around mental health and wellbeing.

More support

Here are some resources you may find useful: