Good Night Owls

Have fun with your family or housemates! Being together 24/7 is likely to get on your nerves but, rather than focus on the crazy, be mindful about the moments you have together. As well as setting aside some alone time, plan fun activities for everyone. After all, when will you have another opportunity to spend this much time with them?
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https://www.templehealth.org/about/blog/5-ways-manage-stress-anxiety-during-social-distancing

Focus on your strengths! Character strengths are essential in supporting wellbeing. Research shows that recognising and working with our strengths increases our levels of happiness. Identify your top five strengths and consider how these can help you navigate these challenging times.
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https://www.actionforhappiness.org/news/how-to-keep-mentally-healthy-during-uncertain-times

Reward yourself for your achievements! Learning to be kinder to yourself can help you control the amount of pressure you feel in different situations, which can help you feel less stressed. Treat yourself by reading a book, taking a walk or simply telling yourself "well done" - even for small things like finishing a piece of work or making a decision!
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https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/stress/developing-resilience/

Set work-home boundaries! It might be tempting to stay in PJs whilst remote working (or studying), but try to get dressed every day. If things like shaving or doing your hair and make-up make you feel good, or gets you into 'work mode' then there's nothing wrong with continuining to do them too!
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https://www.blurtitout.org/2020/03/18/remote-working-definitive-guide/

Laugh! Laughing feels good, boosts our immune system and helps us keep things in perspective. Laughing with others strengthens relationships and, because laughter is contagious, we laugh more with others. Try watching your favourite comedy movie or sharing funny clips with your friends and family.
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https://www.actionforhappiness.org/news/how-to-keep-mentally-healthy-during-uncertain-times

If you live with other people, set boundaries! It might help to create a household routine, especially if several of you will be at home most of the time. But try to also respect each other's privacy and give each other space. Some people might want to discuss everything they're doing while others won't.
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https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/coronavirus/coronavirus-and-your-wellbeing/

Our Student Support Team’s tip of the week is to give your 👀 a break!

When you are doing a lot of screen work, you may blink less, which can make your eyes dry and uncomfortable.

You could also try the 20-20-20 rule – every 20 minutes look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds, to give your eyes a rest.

If you're stuck at home, keep your brain occupied and challenged! Set aside time in your routine for this. Read books, magazines and articles. Listen to podcasts, watch films and do puzzles.
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https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/coronavirus/coronavirus-and-your-wellbeing/

If you're worried about lockdown easing, talk to someone you trust! It might feel hard to start talking about how you're feeling but many people find that sharing their experiences can help them feel better. If you aren't able to open up to someone close to you, you can call Samaritans any time on 116 123.
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https://www.samaritans.org/

✨ Updated Support Sessions Calendar ✨

📅 This weeks' Support Session: Friday 19 June, 11am: 'General Self-Care', for students who identify as LGBTQ+, provided by MindOut and co-hosted by LGBTQ+ Society and SMuTS.

🌐 To register for free and view all our Support Sessions go to our website: https://www.sussexstudent.com/whats-on/

Get as much sunlight, fresh air and nature as you can! Bringing nature into your everyday life can improve your mood, reduce feelings of stress or anger, and make you feel more relaxed. You could open you windows, sit in your garden or listen to natural sounds.
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https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/coronavirus/coronavirus-and-your-wellbeing/