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Supporting your Wellbeing at home
When you're studying remotely check out some of our top tips on supporting your mental health while working from home.
- Posted Thu, Dec 17, 2020 1:12 PM
With Teaching Block 1 continuing into the New Year, and we'll be returning to blended learning, we're all still working from home. Whether you're back with your family or still on campus, if you've been self isolating or choosing to stay indoors to study, it's important to look after your mental health as well as your physical health.
Waking up
Without the commute to morning lectures you'll have some extra time in bed, but aim to wake up around the same time each day. This helps stabilise your internal clock and improve your sleep.
Getting ready
Keep to your morning routine if you can. Get ready, washed and dressed as though you're heading into university - it'll help get you into the mindset of studying and will make it easier to get a productive start.
Setting up your workspace
Try to set aside a work area separate from where you sleep. This will help to prepare you for studying, but also make it easier to switch off at the end of the day. Using a desk set up in your room, or a laptop at the end of a kitchen table can do the trick.
Clear your work surface of clutter and set up your equipment to avoid physical strain. If you're not sure if you're set up safely, do a self check with NHS Guidance*.
*If you don't have a chair with back support, try using a firm pillow.
Including some movement into your routine can help with your physical and mental health, from staying awake to helping you concentrate.
Outdoors
If you're not self-isolating, try going for a walk or a jog down your street before you start for the day, almost as though you'd be on your journey to uni. Doing the same when you finish for the day can help you leave the work behind and switch off for the evening.
Indoors
If you're indoors, look online for an activity that suits you, like home yoga videos. No matter what you choose, take regular breaks and stretch throughout the day. Try to take a lunch break separate from your work space.
During times of stress it helps to stay connected. Keep in touch with friends and family where you can, via instant messenger, phone or video calling.
Look after yourself and set aside time to prioritise self case. For information about mental health during this time you can contact:
- The Student Wellbeing Service for support via Skype, email and phone please email wellbeing-admin@port.ac.uk to make arrangements
- The WhatsUp App provides daily tools to promote positive mental health and connections. Download it to your Android and Apple devices.
- Chaplaincy support who will provide a listening ear, please email chaplains@port.ac.uk or call +44 (0)23 9284 3030
- Residential Life support in halls of residence at +44(0)23 9284 3418. or by reslife@port.ac.uk
- Students' Union Advice Centre by calling +44(0)23 92 843478 or by emailing advice@port.ac.uk
- Mind: Coronavirus and your wellbeing.
Some of these may have different operating hours over the Christmas period, so check out all different services available to you, but all will resume on January 4th.
If you're feeling anxious or isolated, remember that support is out there.
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The University of Portsmouth Students’ Union has a vision of creating a positive impact with every Portsmouth student during their time at University.