Wellbeing: focus on what you can control

With Dr Sarah Halliday, Lecturer in the School of Psychology.

Starting university is an exciting, yet challenging time. You have to manage new relationships, acquire new study skills, you may have had to move and now live away from family and friends, as well as learn how to function as independent adults.

With all of these changes, it makes sense why we see a rise in anxiety and depression levels as students move from high school to university. As research suggests that the transition to university can come with negative impacts on student mental health, it’s important to identify and implement practical tips to help improve your wellbeing.

What is wellbeing?

Wellbeing is a broad term that encompasses lots of different components in your life. Wellbeing can be described as feeling good and functioning well, experiencing positive emotions, developing your potential, having control over your life, having a sense of purpose, and experiencing positive relationships. Having a high level of wellbeing is linked to better physical health, improved performance at work or school, lower levels of absenteeism, and more satisfying and successful relationships.

So, how can you improve your wellbeing while at university?

There are lots of ways to improve your wellbeing!

• Physical Activity – There’s a reason why exercise often pops up when you’re looking for ways to improve your wellbeing. Not only is exercise important for your overall physical health, but it also has huge benefits for your brain – exercise can improve your memory, it releases the ‘happy hormones’ dopamine and serotonin, and can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression levels.
   
• Sleep – Sleep can improve your focus and brain performance, improve your mood, and has many positive outcomes on physical health. Research into the area of sleep hygiene suggests that the best way to set yourself up for a good night’s sleep is to make sure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and at a comfortable temperature, to create a relaxing bedtime routine (I recommend finding meditation/relaxation music that you like!), and to avoid electronics at least an hour before you go to bed.
   
• Practising gratitude — It’s easy to move day to day without noticing the good that’s going on around you. Maybe take some time to notice or look for the good things and appreciate them, or maybe express your gratitude to yourself by writing down things you’re grateful for. You could also thank someone!
   
• Socialising with others — Friends have a huge impact on your mental health and wellbeing. Not only do good friends reduce stress, loneliness, and isolation, but they also provide comfort and joy. Friends also bring a sense of belonging – through the connection with others, belonging can promote positive mental health, wellbeing, can improve focus and learning, and can give us a sense of purpose and meaning.

Now this definitely isn’t an exhaustive list of ways to improve your wellbeing, but it is a good start! You can find more information through the Student Wellbeing Hub on the University of Adelaide’s website. 

Find out more