It’s that time of year where many of us will be heading off to university. Moving away from home for the very first time. It’s a period of excitement, nerves and a chance to become independent and really discover who you are.
That can be incredibly rewarding, but it can also be stressful. In fact, studies have shown that nearly half of students at UK universities are stressed.
While some stress is normal, excessive or chronic stress can be dangerous, with many often turning to the likes of alcohol and drugs to cope. In fact, across many drug rehabilitation centres in the UK, you’ll find people who developed dependencies to try and cope with their studies and the pressures around university life. So, it’s really important to look after yourself.
As we enter a new academic year, many students will be nervous about their mental health and coping with all the challenges university life throws up. So, here are five top tips to help manage that and help you cope across your time there…
Develop a Structured Routine
One of the most effective ways to manage stress is to create a structured routine. Planning your days and weeks helps you prioritise tasks and avoid last-minute panic. Break assignments into manageable steps, set realistic deadlines, and allocate specific times for studying, classes, and relaxation.
Using a planner or digital calendar can be especially helpful for visualising your workload and preventing overwhelm. A routine doesn’t have to be rigid; flexibility is important, but having a basic structure provides a sense of control that reduces stress.
Take Care of Your Physical Health
Stress is not just a mental experience – it affects the body too. Regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep are crucial for maintaining energy and focus. Physical activity releases endorphins, which naturally improve mood and reduce anxiety. Even short daily walks or stretching sessions can make a difference.
Eating regular, nutritious meals and staying hydrated helps stabilise energy levels and mood, while prioritising sleep ensures that your brain and body can recover from the day’s demands. Neglecting these basics often makes stress feel worse and harder to manage.
Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques
Mindfulness and relaxation practices are powerful tools for coping with stress. Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, or yoga can help calm the mind and bring awareness to the present moment.
Mindfulness encourages you to acknowledge stress without being overwhelmed by it, allowing you to respond rather than react. Even five to ten minutes a day of focused breathing or meditation can significantly reduce tension and improve concentration, making it easier to tackle academic and personal challenges.
Build a Support Network
University can feel isolating, especially when stress begins to mount. Building a supportive network of friends, family, or fellow students can provide both emotional support and practical advice. Talking about your worries helps relieve tension and gives perspective on problems that might seem larger than they are.
Universities often offer support services such as counselling, peer mentoring, and stress management workshops so don’t hesitate to reach out. Sharing experiences with others who understand your situation can make you feel less alone and more capable of coping.
Find Healthy Outlets for Relaxation and Enjoyment
Finally, it’s important to make time for activities that bring joy and relaxation. Hobbies, sports, creative pursuits, or simply spending time outdoors can provide a valuable break from academic pressures. Engaging in activities you enjoy helps reset your mind, improves mood, and prevents burnout. Setting aside even a short amount of time each day to do something pleasurable can make a significant difference in overall stress levels and wellbeing.
Remember, relaxation is not a luxury, it’s an essential part of maintaining balance during university life.