What are 5 ways to improve mental health?

Mental health is a crucial part of overall wellbeing - particularly for university students like you. It’s not something you can leave off to one side and deal with when it becomes a problem. The best approach is always addressing mental health proactively and trying to improve your base wellness both physically and mentally.

Whether you’re studying to be a psychologist specifically or you just want some tips to smooth your journey at the University of Bolton, today we’ll look at “What are 5 ways to improve mental health?” And we’ll make them super-easy to implement right now, so there’s no reason to put off your wellness.

(Don’t forget, you can always talk to someone at our Life Lounge or, if you’re experiencing a crisis, phone the Samaritans anytime.)

5 ways to improve mental health

These simple ideas can improve your wellbeing dramatically, so why not make space for one or two in your schedule today?

1. Prioritise self-care

We all know getting the right amount of sleep, balanced nutrition and regular exercise is important. But what about those extra things you do that make you feel well groomed, well loved and well looked after? Take a minute to think about what that is for you. Do you like a relaxing face mask in the evening, a soothing bath, a cup of tea with biscuits, a nice haircut or shave, a massage, phone calls with family, journaling or a PT session? Whatever that is, making time for the little extras can make a big difference in how happy you are in your life. And this -in turn- impacts on your mental health.

2. Make connections

Even if you’re more introverted, getting out there and building a strong support network of friends, family and mentors can really enrich your life. Having healthy, regular communication with others (outside your studies) adds another element to your existence and fills it with additional opportunities to connect and experience life. It’s okay (and healthy) to put boundaries around these relationships, however. Don’t let socialising time damage your work or studies. Have a look at what’s going on in Bolton and at our own Student Union to see where you might get out there and meet some new people.

3. Try mindfulness

Mindfulness, meditation and relaxation techniques can lower your blood pressure and help with sleeping well. So, if you want to try building a mindfulness and meditation habit, why not check out an app like Calm? They claim to help you with “personalised “content to manage stress and anxiety, get better sleep and feel more present in your life.” And that’s a great lifestyle practice to get into. But, what if you know you need professional support?

4. Start therapy

Our Life Lounge is a “quiet and relaxing space where you can take some time out from the busy aspects of life and your studies.” From there, you can access counselling, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Wellbeing Advisors and Mental Health Advisors for personal recommendations and therapy services. If that feels a bit too daunting, why not try an online service like Better Help or talk to your GP over telehealth for advice? A physical barrier (the screen) may make it easier for you to be honest about how you’re feeling.

5. Take up a hobby

A lot of people find purpose and fulfilment through hobbies, volunteering or creative pursuits. We have so many groups on campus that make it easy to balance academic and extracurricular activities for a well-rounded experience. Some of the amazing groups you can get involved with include:

● Games
● Postgraduate Research Students
● Table Top
● Netball Ladies
● Christian Union
● Civil Engineering & Construction Management
● Chinese Students & Scholars Association
● Football
● Medieval
● Student Diversity
● Film FX
● Chess Masters
● Cricket
● Biomechanical Sciences
● Geek Culture
● LGBT+
● Law
● Islamic
● Online Debating

Why not reach out to one of them today about membership?

So, to recap, practising self-care, making connections, trying mindfulness, beginning therapy or taking up a hobby are great ways to improve mental health. No matter which you choose, you’re taking proactive steps towards better mental wellbeing.

And, if you’re interested in mental health because you’re studying to join the psychology profession, these are the types of suggestions you might make to your future patients.

Whatever path you’re considering, we can help you find the right course for your journey. Talk to us at +44 (0)1204 900 600 or email enquiries@bolton.ac.uk and experience #UniAsItShouldBe.