5 steps to wellbeing

The NHS has put together a list of 5 steps to mental wellbeing that, when combined, could make you feel more positive, improve your wellbeing and help you get the most from your life. The steps are interrelated. For instance, giving to others, step 4, helps to create new connections, step 1.

1. Connect

Keeping in touch with friends and loved ones by phone, video apps or social media will help you to feel more connected, especially if you're living away from home.

Check in with others and ask how they really are. Develop your listening skills and empathy and if they are equally willing to listen, it will give you the chance to offload.

Opportunities for connecting:

Check out the SUBU clubs and societies for one (or more) that interest you
The Student Assistance Programme provides a free confidential 24/7 helpline and digital resources to help you with any personal or student-related problem
If you are in a BU managed accommodation, get in touch with ResLifeBU to see what social activities they are providing.

2. Be physically active

Physical health and fitness can have a positive effect on mental health. Take the opportunity when the weather is nice to spend time outdoors, particularly in a natural environment such as a park or by the coast. Physical activity guidelines recommend 150 minutes of moderate exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise every week.

However, some is far better than none. There are plenty of free exercise apps and YouTube videos such as The Body Coach with Joe Wicks.

SportBU on Talbot Campus features a gym, sports teams and group fitness classes. You can even get fit in Bournemouth's local parks with free Park Yoga which runs from May to September.

3. Learn new skills

It goes without saying that you come to university to study and learn. This step is more about picking up additional skills such as learning a new language, leaning to cook or engage in an activity you have always wanted to try.

Learning a new skill can boost your confidence and increase your self-esteem.

Some learning opportunities:

Learn a new language with self-managed guides available for several different languages
Discover tips on looking after your mental health by listening to the Being Well with BU podcasts
Take part in one of the events hosted by SUBU.

4. Give to others

Give the gift of time by connecting with and listening to what others have to say. You could also give some of your time by volunteering. This is small sample of volunteering opportunities within the university and local communities, or even get involved with the Bournemouth Parks in Mind projects.

It may seem impossible or undesirable to let stuff go but as we find ourselves in a very changed social climate, now might be the time to forgive others who may have hurt or offended you in some way.

When others are in distress, give hope. Remind them that the situation we find ourselves in is temporary and it will pass. It will get better.

Give to others through acts of kindness.