5 tips for how to stay on top of your mental health at University

BRAND Ambassador for student accommodation provider, UniHomes, shares top tips for managing your mental health this Mental Health Awareness Week. University's an adventure for all students, filled with endless opportunities from socialising at events, to moving to a new City and experiencing that sweet taste of independence. However, a report from UCAS found that the number of UK applicants declaring a mental health condition upon applying for their studies increased by 450% from 2020 to 2021. This week is Mental Health Awareness Week in the UK, so leading student accommodation provider UniHomes have teamed up with 1 of their Brand Ambassadors, Yasmin Jukes, to provide some advice and learnings on how to manage your mental health whilst completing your studies.

1. Budgeting... Living away from home independently is a big change, and financial stress on top of this can be a burden on student stress levels. By budgeting, you can cut out unnecessary purchases so you can maximise where your money is being spent. If you're struggling with money, speak to your University student union, who will be able to offer advice and support.

2. Home is where the heart is... Whilst it is exciting living in a new City and making new friends, don't lose touch with your home network. Making time to call or Facetime your support system provides a great home comfort. Feeling homesick is temporary and lots of other students will be in the same position as you, so feeling connected to home as much as possible, from arranging visits from home friends, to decorating your bedroom with photos of your hometown memories is a great way to make yourself feel at ease.

3. Self awareness... University's a new chapter for many, but it's important you put yourself and your mental health 1st. Make the most of opportunities that come your way, however, never feel pressured or compare yourself to others. Self awareness will lead to becoming a better version of yourself and putting yourself and your needs first.

4. Planning... We've all been there; assignment deadlines begin to creep in and you're suddenly feeling incredibly overwhelmed. Whilst it may be harder than it seems, planning your time effectively is a great way to reduce your stress levels and make you feel in control. Consider purchasing a diary, or creating an online document to help monitor your upcoming deadlines.

5. Let's get physical... Moving to a new Town or City is the perfect opportunity for you to engage in activities you may not have been able to access before. Whether it's joining a society at your University, to trying a new sport or fitness class, physical activity has a huge potential at enhancing our overall mental wellbeing.

Whilst focusing on managing your own mental health takes number 1 priority, it's important to check in with your friends to see how they're getting on too. It will mean a lot to your friends to ask how their day was, or how they are feeling. This is most likely to be reciprocated and having friends that we feel we can confide in and Trust can contribute hugely to our overall mental wellbeing.

Charities such as Student Minds are dedicated to bettering the mental health of students across the UK, but there is still more work to do to eliminate myths and stigma surrounding mental health, especially amongst the student population.

For further information on UniHomes and their team of Brand Ambassadors, please visit:- UniHomes.Co.UK.

500,000 FREE books given to children for Queen's Jubilee - here's how to get yours

THE Queen's commitment to the country and her Christian faith has inspired a free story book, which will be distributed to half a million children in honour of Her Majesty's Platinum Jubilee.

The book, which is based on faithfulness, honours The Queen's 70 steadfast years on the throne and is being issued by The Church of England and Thy Kingdom Come, The Archbishop of Canterbury's global prayer movement. 450,000 of the books have already been requested and given away.

The free story, Queen CJ and the Bouncy Castle, is a product of The Cheeky Pandas; a children's cartoon series featuring contributions from stars including CBeebies' Gemma Hunt, and Archbishop Justin Welby. In the book, a little panda who owns a bouncy castle and doesn't want to share it with her friends, learns that a good ruler is faithful to her people and serves her country through the ups and downs; just like Queen Elizabeth II.

Alongside the book, there will also be a special 'Royal' themed Cheeky Pandas episode by the makers of CBBC's Andy and the Band and CBeebies' The Baby Club, with voiceovers from Gemma Hunt, and free activity packs (including a widget version for children with additional needs), assembly plans and music videos to use in homes, Schools, and churches. Cartoon episodes will also be available in BSL.

Pete James, the creator of the Cheeky Pandas said:- "It is an honour to partner with Thy Kingdom Come and the Church of England this year to create these resources to nurture young children's faith in a fun way, in celebration of Her Majesty the Queen's Platinum Jubilee"

You can order the free books here on The Cheeky Pandas website, as well as other free Jubilee resources.

There is also an extended version of The Cheeky Pandas free Jubilee book, available for purchase.