University life can sometimes seem overwhelming, isolating and stressful. There are ways to combat stress and feeling of isolation:
Taking care of yourself
- Get moving first thing in the morning – Start the day by warming up with something non-study related. Go for a walk, do some exercise or listen to a podcast. Your energy will set the tone for your day.
- Stay healthy – Make sure that you sleep and eat well. Drink plenty of water and stock your fridge & freezer with healthy kai (food) to avoid snacking.
- Look after yourself –Take care of yourself. Take time to stretch your legs, and limit screen time.
- Call it a day –If you end up working for a long time unproductively or feeling like you haven’t done enough, call it a day. Also set a time to finish studying and stick to it.
- Maintain a good work-life balance – Allocate time for activities that you enjoy such as going to the gym and spending time with friends and family.
- Enrol in University Health and Counselling Service – The University provides students with a professional primary healthcare service and counselling support.
Developing useful study habits
- Create a study space that inspires you – Set up a study zone where you can focus and get away from distractions. Separate it from your relaxing space, even if it’s just between your desk and your bed.
- Prepare your friends and whanau – Let people know when you’re studying and that you may not be contactable during this time. Create clear expectations from the start.
- Make to-do lists – At the start of each week make a plan to structure your week.
Staying social and connected
- Communicate – If you’re stuck with something, ask for help. Keep in contact with other students and reach out to your lecturers and tutors with any questions.
- Stay social – Self-isolation doesn’t mean social isolation. Organise daily check-ins with friends & whanau and set up virtual hang-outs or coffee dates. Whakawhanaungatanga (making connections) is important.
- Be brave and challenge yourself to talk to someone new every day.
- Join a university club – It’s a great way to link with other students with similar interests.
- Become a volunteer – Feel good about helping others.
- Immerse yourself in an art tour around campus – the University of Auckland Art Collection is viewable throughout all campuses.
The University of Auckland has a wide range of opportunities and resources to help you.
