How to improve your student wellbeing at university

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In our previous article on dealing with anxiety and poor mental health at university, we have discussed “less tangible” aspects of student wellbeing.

If you’re struggling with mental health and anxiety, giving that a read might be helpful.

However, in this post, we’ll focus on the more tangible steps you can take to improve student wellbeing at university.

A critique to the university education system here:

How to take care of yourself at university should be part of the actual academic programme. Universities should regularly discuss student wellbeing during lectures, not with random emails outside of academic hours.

Nevertheless, this also shows that you are your best friend, so don’t rely on others to take care of you!

Why Should You Prioritize Student Wellbeing?

Your overall wellbeing is closely tied to your academic success and personal happiness.

Studies have shown that poor wellbeing, such as chronic stress or inadequate sleep, can lower cognitive performance and hinder both exam preparation and active participation in class discussions.

The better you feel, the more effectively you can study and retain information. It’s a chain reaction: improving your wellbeing helps you concentrate, which enhances your academic performance and leads to better grades.

But improving student wellbeing isn’t just about academics—it’s about feeling good for yourself.

To illustrate, a study conducted by the National Union of Students (NUS) in the UK found that students with better mental and physical wellbeing achieved higher academic outcomes.

Taking small steps to enhance your wellbeing can have a big impact on your university experience.

Stay Hydrated: The Simple Habit That Boosts Wellbeing

Dehydration can lead to dizziness, disrupted sleep, stress, and disorientation—all things that can negatively impact your studies, whether it’s staying alert during a long lecture or preparing for exams.

Staying hydrated is one of the simplest ways to care for your student wellbeing.

• Always carry a water bottle with you, whether you’re studying from home or on campus.
• Locate water points around your university—many libraries and study spaces have them. For an easier way to ensure you’re drinking enough water, consider using a hydration tracking app like WaterMinder or Plant Nanny. These apps can remind you to drink regularly and make it fun to reach your hydration goals.
• Set hydration goals, like refilling your bottle by midday, to make it a habit.

Did you know that even mild dehydration can affect cognitive performance? Research has shown that staying hydrated can improve memory and focus—key components of effective studying!

How to Eat Healthier at University (Or at Least Snack Smart!)

Eating healthily can significantly improve your energy levels and mood. For instance, meals like a jacket potato with baked beans, vegetable stir-fry with noodles, or a hearty lentil soup are affordable, easy to prepare, and provide long-lasting energy.

Small, nutritious meals like these can be game-changers for students on a budget. While changing your diet completely can be challenging, starting with healthy snacks during study breaks is a great step forward.

• Opt for snacks like almonds, fruit, or dark chocolate instead of crisps or sugary treats.
• Avoid the energy crash caused by junk food by choosing snacks that provide sustained energy.
• Transition gradually to healthier eating habits, as sudden changes can be hard to maintain.

For example, if you’re used to snacking on crisps, try swapping them for air-popped popcorn or roasted chickpeas. Small changes like this can make a big difference over time.

For more detailed tips, check out our guide on eating healthy at university on a budget we covered on a separate post.

How to Stay Active Without Hitting the Gym

Staying active doesn’t have to mean intense exercise or hitting the gym. Explore local activities like hiking trails, community yoga classes, or even joining university sports clubs or societies.

These options can make staying active enjoyable and social, helping you meet new people while boosting your wellbeing.

If sports aren’t your thing, try casual options like walking groups or dancing workshops offered by your student union. Here are simple ways to move more while at university:

• Take a walk between study sessions or lectures. Fresh air can work wonders for your mood and focus.
• Stretch regularly, especially if you’re spending long hours at a desk. This can improve your posture and reduce muscle tension, which helps prevent neck stiffness and back pain.
• Find small ways to stay active indoors during winter, such as stretching or yoga.

For example, many universities offer free yoga or Pilates classes for students. Check your student union for low-cost or free activities.

Know When to Take a Break: Set Realistic Study Targets

Overstudying can lead to burnout and stress. It’s important to recognize when your productivity is declining and take a break.

• Set daily study goals, whether by time (e.g., two hours of focused study) or by topic.
• Try time management techniques like the Pomodoro Method to structure your study sessions effectively.
• Use your breaks to do something you enjoy or practice mindfulness.

Apps like Forest can help you manage your time while encouraging you to stay focused.

By growing virtual trees as you study, you’re motivated to stick to your plan.

Practical Tips for Better Sleep

Sleep is often overlooked but is vital for student wellbeing. Poor sleep can affect your mood, memory, and concentration, making it harder to prepare for exams, participate in class discussions, or retain information effectively. These challenges can build up over time, impacting both academic performance and overall wellbeing.

• Maintain a consistent sleep schedule, even on weekends.
• Create a tech-free zone an hour before bed to help your mind unwind.
• Use apps like Calm or Headspace to aid relaxation and improve sleep quality.

For instance, listening to guided meditations or white noise can help you fall asleep faster and enjoy deeper rest.

We went through 6 practical tips to improve student sleep quality at university on a separate post, you might want to check that out!

(Bonus paragraph) The Best Student Discount! 💸

Want to save money and enjoy exclusive perks? Unlock big savings with Amazon Prime Student, you can get 6 months FREE—and that’s just the beginning! Here’s what you’ll get with your free trial:

• 🚚 Free Next-Day Delivery on all your essentials—because who doesn’t love fast shipping?
• 🎬 Amazon Prime Video: Stream the latest films, TV shows, documentaries, and even live sports events.
• 🎶 Prime Music: Listen to ad-free music, playlists, and podcasts to stay focused while studying.
• 🎓 Student-Exclusive Offers: Get discounts on uni essentials, textbooks, and more.

And, if you love it (which you will), you can keep your Prime membership at half price until you graduate! 🎓

Ready to start? Follow this quick step-by-step guide to set up your Amazon Prime Student account:

1. Visit the official Amazon Prime Student, landing page.
2. Click on “Start Your 6-Month Trial” and then hit “Try Prime Student”.
3. Sign in if you already have an account, or create one quickly.
4. Enter your university email address (ending with .ac.uk).
5. Provide your expected graduation year.
6. Add your payment details (don’t worry, the first 6 months are totally FREE!).
7. Verify your email (Amazon will send a confirmation to your uni address).
8. Enjoy your Prime perks!

Don’t miss out on these incredible benefits—sign up today and get your free 6 months of Amazon Prime Student now!

FAQs: Common Questions About Student Wellbeing

1. What is student wellbeing, and why is it important?
Student wellbeing encompasses your physical, mental, and emotional health during your academic journey. It’s important because it directly impacts your ability to study effectively, socialize, and enjoy university life.

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2. How can I maintain a balance between studies and personal life?
Set clear boundaries, schedule breaks, and make time for hobbies and social activities. Using a planner can help you stay organized.

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3. What university services are available for student wellbeing in the UK?
Most UK universities offer mental health counselling, wellbeing workshops, peer support groups, and online resources. Check your university’s website or student union for details.

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4. How can I reduce stress during exam periods?
Prioritize self-care, use time management techniques, and don’t hesitate to seek help from tutors or wellbeing advisors if you’re feeling overwhelmed.

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5. Are there apps that can help improve student wellbeing?
Yes, apps like Forest (for focus), MyFitnessPal (for healthy eating), and Headspace (for mindfulness) are great tools for managing your wellbeing.

Conclusion: Take Charge of Your Student Wellbeing

Improving student wellbeing at university should be a priority for every student, as it can lead to better academic achievements, a more fulfilling university experience, and an overall happier, healthier life.

By prioritizing your wellbeing, you set the foundation for success in both your studies and personal growth.

While universities could do more to integrate wellbeing into the academic curriculum, the responsibility ultimately lies with you.

By staying hydrated, eating healthily, staying active, and setting realistic study goals, you’ll be on the path to better wellbeing.

Remember, you’re your best advocate. Take small steps, be consistent, and make time for yourself!