Taking care of your health and wellbeing during the Covid-19 pandemic global crisis

‘We are all living in an exceptional time in the year 2020. University students in the UK and across the globe have had to adjust to the sudden and unforeseeable to our way of lives and communications. 

These changes have affected every student and staff in almost every aspect in our lives. The way how we live now has been restricted as we moved towards working and studying from home. 

I believe that any changes in our lives can bring challenges and may require a substantial amount of adjustments and focus. However, with sudden and unexpected change it can be extremely stressful to individuals. 

For me, the Covid-19 pandemic has been a period of upheaval.  It affected my ability to focus on academic work, knowing what to trust in the news and social media. Other stresses such as student residence evacuation, cancellation of exchange studies and graduation ceremonies and the loss of part time jobs as local business close. With the anxiety about the job market for final year students. 

What we need to do

• stay informed. This is vital, try to keep informed with trusted information as misinformation can cause undue anxiety
• stay connected. There may be times when you feel isolated during these difficult times, away from your regular communities and friends circles, but staying connected is a great way to support your wellbeing at this time, so make sure you check in with your family, friends  and university support groups.

Here are a few websites I found useful for maintaining good mental health during this difficult time as a student:

Student minds - Student space 

Mental Health Foundation - How to look after your mental health during the coronavirus outbreak

Mind - Coronavirus and your wellbeing

The Covid-19 pandemic is definitely making a significant negative impact on mental health for many university students. We must take proactive initiatives to support the mental health and well-being of ourselves.'