Wednesday 10-05-2023 - 12:00

This blog was written by Mi Nguyen, Global Issues / Advocacy (Carmarthen).

Some recommendations on stress management

There will be times we cannot help but feel very pressured and exhausted. For students, exam time and confusion about their future paths may cause them a lot of stress and anxiety. We hope to help you with some tips and experiences which may be helpful and wholesome during but not exclusive to test time.

Listen to music or inspirational podcasts

This stimulates the production of dopamine - the “feel good” hormone. More incredibly, playing a musical instrument, singing along to music, and using guided imagery with music will also help . My cosy niches include ‘Twinkle Twinkle Little Stars’ by Mozart and ‘I Won’t Give Up’ by Jason Mraz. In addition, with various topics on offer, you can find some podcasts suitable for you while being productive! Listening to podcasts also stimulates the brain, boosting our skills and imagination.

You may want to share a melody/playlist so soothing and heart-warming that helps you stand up every time you feel down. 

Move your bodies

While we are talking about music, how does dancing sound to you? Being active while vibing with your favourite tunes is energising, isn’t it? Walking leisurely, for example around campus, is also a good way to get away from your current problems and give you a new perspective. If you are based in Carmarthen Campus, have you known of the Wellbeing Walk? Smells of nature are believed to reduce stress as well.

We believe going to the sports centre is another effective way to relieve accumulating stress and free your mind. If you have an interest in swimming, it helps you relax and feel motivated. Imagine being gently embraced by water! Talking to the friendly staff at the establishments may wonderfully and surprisingly make your day.

Take photos of things that makes you happy

Photos of you when travelling to different places help you keep memories. And how about photos of things that lighten up your every day? They may be simple yet powerful, familiar but endearing. For instance, the photos may include your havens in the campus, in the city/town you are living in, or a school staff member who brightens your day. When things get too hard, your photo collection may remind you that difficult times will be just for a while, as you have all it takes to surmount the obstacles.

Communicate your thoughts

The importance of talking things out has not received enough acknowledgement. This may sound awkward for some people, but we believe talking works wonders. Things that keep bottling up inside may get heavier if you don’t let them out. Sharing your thoughts with your confidants, or anyone you feel connected to even in a spur of the moment, could lighten the burden. You may receive help and inspiration at places you least expected. 

Further Support

Designed to be the first point of contact, the dedicated Student Hwb team can provide a comprehensive information service on all student-related matters and can refer you for specialist support. Visit: https://hwb.uwtsd.ac.uk 

The Student Services department is a collection of practical professional services designed to enable and support you to reach your full potential.

Any UWTSD student can also access 24/7 support, including mental health support, by contacting the Student Assistance Programme. Professional staff are on hand to offer you support at any time. Call the Health Assured team on 0800 028 3766.

Finally, the Students’ Union’s Advice Service can support you with University processes and signposting to services. The Advice Service is free, independent and confidential. The aim is to empower you to take the decisions that are right for you. 

 

Tams, L. (2021) The role of music in stress management. Available at: https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/the_role_of_music_in_stress_management (Accessed April 28, 2023).

Wellbeing Walks – Carmarthen. Available at: https://www.uwtsd.ac.uk/media/uwtsd-website/content-assets/documents/environment-unit/sustainability/wellbeing-walks-carmarthen-420x594mm.pdf (Accessed May 7, 2023).

Yeager, A. (2020) Smells of Nature Lower Physiological Stress. Available at: https://www.the-scientist.com/news-opinion/smells-of-nature-lower-physiological-stress-66864 (Accessed May 7, 2023).

Pearson, G. (2022) Time to Talk: the importance of communication and community. Available at: https://studentnews.manchester.ac.uk/2022/02/02/time-to-talk-the-importance-of-communication-and-community/. (Accessed May 7, 2023).