Festive Wellbeing
For many, the festive period can be a wonderful time of the year but for some it can be an incredibly challenging time especially because many of the regular support services may not be available over the winter break.
For those who may need support over the break, Student Service would recommend Spectrum Life. Spectrum Life is a valuable and accessible online resource with a wide variety of information, videos and podcasts all designed to increase your understanding of health and wellbeing. It provides detail on some very effective strategies that may help you cope with the difficulties you may be experiencing. Those using Spectrum Life also have access to a 24/7 support service run by mental health professionals that operates 365 days of the year.
All calls are answered by clinically trained counsellors or psychotherapists. You can talk to them about anything; stress, anxiety, low mood, financial worries, loss and grief, relationship difficulties and substance abuse issues. This online resource is completely free to all our students and students can make contact via phone, text, WhatsApp or Zen Chat (through the web portal).
Get support
If you are still struggling please don’t struggle alone. Talk to a friend or family or contact a crisis service.
- Call Samaritans on 116 123 (freephone).
- Text SHOUT to 85258. This is a free 24/7 crisis text service run by Shout.
- Use Spectrum Life (Online resource)
- If you are in urgent need of support call 999
Student Services would like to wish everyone a relaxing break and we look forward to seeing you in the New Year.
Merry Christmas
8 useful tips for surviving the festive period
- Planning ahead
Think about what might be difficult about Christmas for you, and if there's anything that might help you cope. It might be useful to write down the situations that you might find difficult and ways to deal with them.
- Be active
Physical activity releases the feel-good chemicals, endorphins, which help you to relax, feel happy and boost your mood. By undertaking simple tasks such as cycling to work, walking in the park, or joining in with Christmas games, you can benefit from experiencing reduced anxiety, decreased depression and improved self-esteem.
- Eat and drink sensibly
It can be easy to overdo it at this time of year. Why not this year try to eat and drink in moderation? You might just be thankful you did later.
- Let technology help with things get too much.
When things get too much why not use technology to help ease the discomfort? This could be listening to music or a podcast, watching a video, playing games or using a wellbeing app. Though try not to overdo it.
- Know when you need to take a break
It can be great spending time with friend and family over the festive period, though it is important to know when you might need a break and make sure you are getting a little ‘me’ time. If the house is busy try going out for a nice brisk walk.
- Rest
Try to build in time for YOU amongst the festivities. This will help you maintain (or regain!) a healthy balance for mind and body. Take regular breaks and allow time for exercise, meditation, sleep or whatever it is that works for you. This could also be an opportunity to take a break from digital devices and social media.
- Talk to others
Talking can be a good way to cope with a problem you've been carrying around in your head. If something is worrying you, whether it's college, family problems or other feelings, just being listened to can help you feel supported and less alone. It works both ways: if you open up, it might encourage others to do the same and get something off their mind.
- Breathe
And when it all gets too much or you are feeling overwhelmed, just remember to Breathe. When we are distressed our breathing can become shallow and this affects our body’s vital functions. Simply breathe in deeply through your nose, hold for a few seconds and then breathe slowly out through your mouth, and repeat for a few minutes. This will help to slow your heart rate and make you feel calmer.
