Skip to Main Content

Revision & Exams: Looking after yourself

Look after yourself

For you to thrive during your university studies it is important to focus on your health and wellbeing.

Here are some tips on how you can look after your health and wellbeing at university:

  • Eat a healthy diet. This doesn't mean you have to follow a strict diet, but make sure you're eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. 
  • Get enough sleep. Most adults need around 7-8 hours of sleep per night. When you're well-rested, you'll be better able to focus and concentrate on your studies.
  • Exercise regularly. Exercise is not only good for your physical health, but it can also improve your mental health and wellbeing. Check out the sports clubs and societies run by the Student Union.
  • Manage stress. Stress is a normal part of life, but it can be harmful if it's not managed effectively. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, relaxation techniques, or talking to a friend or therapist.
  • Connect with others. Social support is important for your mental health. Make an effort to connect with friends, family, and classmates.
  • Take care of yourself. This means making time for things you enjoy, such as reading, listening to music, or spending time in nature. It also means taking care of your physical health by getting regular check-ups and staying up-to-date on your vaccinations.

If you're struggling with your mental health, don't hesitate to seek help. There are many resources available to you, check out what is on offer from Disability and Wellbeing Services.

Here are some additional tips that may be helpful for specific groups of students:

  • First-year students: It can be tough to adjust to university life, so it's important to be patient with yourself and to reach out for help if you need it. Make sure to get involved in activities that interest you and to build a support network of friends and mentors.
  • International students: Moving to a new country can be stressful, so it's important to take care of your physical and mental health. Make sure to get involved in your new community and to connect with other international students.
  • Students with disabilities: If you have a disability, there are many resources available to help you succeed at university. Disability and Wellbeing Services have a range of support on offer. 
  • Students with mental health conditions: If you have a mental health condition, such as depression or anxiety, it's important to get treatment. Check with Disability and Wellbeing Services on what support you can get.
     

University study is not just about learning new information - it's about developing your skills in order to succeed in your studies as well as in any future career you choose. 

Think about how you can develop one of the following skills by browsing the Academic Skills collection in the library.

Independence   Find the confidence to create your own work plan and make executive decisions regarding your studies and assignments.
Self motivation   Find ways of working on your own and rewarding yourself to maintain motivation.
Willingness to work with others   Although much work will be your own, it is also expected that you will become a team player and partake in group learning. 
Organising your time   Get into the habit of creating a work schedule to keep yourself on track with your assignments and generate a sense of progression and achievement.
Ability to reflect on your learning  Figure out how you work best, recognise your preferred learning style, and look at finding an environment conducive to effective study for you.  

Working independently doesn't mean that you shouldn't ask for help and advice. Contact the Library & Learning Services team for academic support, the Careers, Employability and Enterprise team for careers ideas and the Student Services team for financial support and wellbeing.

 

Further Reading