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Exams are approaching...and SSN is here for you!

Its that time of year again, exams are upon us. If you are feeling stressed out, overwhelmed, or just need someone to talk to come visit us! We will be open during exams, Monday to Friday from 12-8 p.m. in Raithby House.

For those of you who are new to the SSN, we are a confidential, non-judgemental peer-to-peer service that provides referrals, listening and support. At the SSN you will find kind and caring student volunteers who have been extensively trained.

Stress can be hard to cope with at times, making self-care activities even more important during exam time. Some activities can include talking or meeting up with friends, cooking/baking, doing yoga, listening to music, watching your favourite show etc. We would like to hear from YOU! What are some self-care activities you practice to decrease your stress level during exams?

#selfcare #wellness #wellbeing #mental health #awareness #midterm stress #exams #stress #support #peers

Stressed about Self-care? Read this.

If you’re a student at the University of Guelph, it’s likely that you’ve encounter the concept of practicing self-care. Self-care is the deliberate practice of any act that contributes to your physical, emotional, spiritual, and mental well-being. This can range from taking a bike ride, to mediation, to goofing off with some friends. Any activity that increases your sense of self-love can be self-care. While the activity itself differs from person to person, the outcome is the same: you are taking time to promote your own wellbeing. Sounds good, right? So, why do we struggle to do it?

One thing I hear a lot is, “I don’t have time to practice self-care”. I definitely empathize with this. As a student, your time is constantly in high demand. It can be easy to view taking care of yourself as unimportant in the chaos of midterms, assignments, extracurriculars, and work. However, self-care is even more important in the times that we feel stretched thin. How can you make time for self-care when it seems like you’re being pushed to your limits?

The secret to practicing self-care during the hard times is quality over quantity. What good does 2 hours in the gym really do if you’re stressing about your upcoming midterm? In busy times, practicing self-care can be anything that gives you a few minutes of simplicity and peace. It doesn’t have to be laborious or time consuming. I’ve compiled a list of ideas for self-care that will take 10 minutes or less.

Quick Self-care ideas:

1. Make a DIY Latte: love Starbucks but hate the price? You can make foamed milk yourself at home in under 4 minutes, and create a speciality drink of your choosing! All you need is a mason jar and a microwave. Here’s how to do it:

· Pour as much milk as you want in the mason jar

· Screw on the lid tight

· Vigorously shake for 1-2 minutes, or until the milk has frothed and approximately doubled its volume.

· Take off the lid and microwave the jar uncovered for 30 seconds. The foam will separate from the milk and rise to the top.

· Pour the warm milk in to a mug containing espresso or strong coffee. Scoop the foamed milk on top.

· Violà! You’re a barista

2. Stretch: Studying at a desk all day can be tough on your body. Take a few minutes for a break to stretch during a long study session. Notice where your shoulders are, and drop them if they’ve tensed up. Roll them backwards slowly backwards 10 times. Many people carry stress in their shoulders, and tense shoulders will raise and tighten throughout the day without us noticing.

3. Make Lists: sometimes the chaos of a busy week can leave us feeling totally overwhelmed. Take 10 minutes at the beginning of your week to visualize what you want to accomplish each day, then write it down. Perhaps this one may seem like “cheating” on self-care to you, but your guaranteed to reap the psychological benefits of not leaving things until the last minute.

4. Practice Gratitude: Before bed, write down all the things that happened that day that you are thankful for. Reflect on the people, feelings, and events that fulfilled you. Focus on engaging with those things that fulfill you more often. I keep a journal with my “gratitude” lists, and I can look back on them to stimulate positive memories.

5. Journal: Take a few minutes to organize your thoughts on the day you’ve had and any conflicts that may have arisen. Consider your underlying beliefs, attitudes, and desires. The act of writing is a powerful tool to help us process our feelings and determine what we want from the future. This step is especially useful to use with #3 and #4.

6. Take a hot shower: The warmth of the water will stimulate circulation and blood flow, while also relaxing sore muscles. If you shower in the morning, end the last 30 seconds of your shower with cold water to wake yourself up!

7. Drink a glass of water: Feeling dizzy? Have a headache starting to form? When was the last time you drank water? Your symptoms might be due to dehydration!

8. Accept a compliment: A lot of people have trouble accepting compliments, and are much more comfortable focusing on the negative qualities they see in themselves. However, negative self-talk can be poisonous to your wellbeing. Counteract negative thoughts by consciously allowing yourself to see the good in yourself that others see in you. Practice this self-care technique consistently will grow your confidence, which will positively impact your success at school.

9. Visualize an affirmation: This one is related to #8. Choose a positive affirmation that you want to focus on, and write it somewhere you will see it every day. I tend to favour writing on my bedroom mirror with erasable marker or lipstick. When you wake up in the morning, read the statement to yourself confidently 5 times. Here are some of my favourites:

· By allowing myself to be happy, I inspire others to be happy as well.

· I am self-reliant, creative and persistent in whatever I do.

· I possess the qualities needed to be extremely successful.

· I am at peace with all that has happened, is happening, and will happen.

· Today, I am brimming with energy and overflowing with joy.

10. 4-7-8 breathing: This one is great for when school’s overwhelming. It’s simple and can be done anywhere, and it only takes 1 minute!

· Centre yourself, where ever you are. Close your eyes if you feel comfortable doing so.

· Take a deep, slow breath from your diaphragm, and silently count to 4 as you breathe in.

· Hold your breath while you count from 1 to 7.

· Breathe out completely while you count from 1 to 8. Try to get all the air out of your lungs.

· Repeat x3

#selfcare ssn guelph university uofg mentalhealth wellness wellbeing quote inspiration ideas love selflove

deeplifequotes

Be mindful of how you treat people. Be mindful of how you handle things. Be mindful of your intentions. Be mindful.

Alex Elle (via creatingaquietmind)

Culinary Therapy by Jennifer Kao

As a student, the stresses that come with balancing an academic and social life can feel like a constant heavy weight on my shoulders. By the time I get home, the feeling of being on-the-go is hard to shake, making it difficult for me to properly relax. Bubble baths are alright but if you’re anything like me, you can’t fill a tub full of hot water without seeing the ghost of last month’s hydro bill. Meditation can also be useful but I personally find it hard to sit still listening to a YouTube video of forest sounds.

Instead, I’ll turn to cooking. There are few things in life more satisfying than watching your sponge cake rise in the oven or stirring a thick stew that’s been braising for a couple hours. Termed “culinary therapy”, mental health clinics have begun to consider cooking as a form of treatment for a variety of conditions (depression, anxiety, and eating disorders, just to name a few!). It teaches nutrition, boosts feelings of self-sufficiency, and is a cheap getaway into a world dominated by sizzles and bubbles. When there are few certainties in life, I can take solace in the fact that cooking butter on low heat for ten minutes will give it a nutty brown flavour. Toss a couple sage leaves in, add slices of garlic, crack some salt and pepper, and I’ve got a decent brown butter and sage sauce going.

Cooking can also be a form of creative expression. Love spicy food? Melt your butter with chili flake before mixing it into the brownie batter. Certain ingredients are hard to come by but I find that it’s more fun (and cheaper!) to challenge the rules of the recipe you may be following and try different flavour combinations. I’ve created some surprisingly delicious dishes and each time, I’ve definitely felt like Jon Favreau in Chef. With all this being said, there is a recipe below for my go-to weeknight dinner. It is incredibly versatile so feel free to remove or add certain ingredients. You are the chef, you can take this dish any direction you like!

Peanut Stir-fried Noodles:

(Suggested) Ingredients:

· A handful of crushed roasted peanuts

· ½ cup of sugar snap peas

· 1 cup of sliced red/green/yellow bell pepper

· ½ cup of thinly sliced yellow onion

· 1 cup of bean sprouts

· 1 cup of broccoli

· 1-2 cups of cubed raw chicken (to make vegetarian, substitute with firm cubed tofu)

· Enough noodles for 2 people (any kind is fine but wide rice noodles works best)

(Sauce) Ingredients:

· ¼ cup of peanut butter

· ¼ cup of low sodium soy sauce

· 4 tbsp of brown/white sugar

· 1 tsp of black pepper

· 1 tsp of sesame oil

· ½ cup of warm water

Steps:

1. Prepare the chicken or tofu by marinating in 2 tbsp of soy sauce, 1 tbsp of sugar, and 1 minced garlic clove for 10 minutes. Soak the rice noodles in warm water and slice your vegetables in the time being!

2. Sauté the chicken and tofu on medium-high heat for a few minutes in a pan with canola oil. Remove when cooked through.

3. Leaving the heat on and in the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil and toss in all your vegetables. Sauté them for a minute or two, before adding the soaked noodles and stirring.

4. Mix the sauce ingredients together until a homogenized mixture.

5. Turn your heat on medium-low, pour the sauce mixture into the pan and on top of the noodles.

6. Return the chicken back to the pan and continue to cook until the noodles are ready.

7. Serve with lime wedges and top with your crushed peanuts.

#self care #mental health #ssn students uog eatwell foodie healthy recipe

Tips to a Stress-Free, Relaxing Bedtime Routine

Do you ever feel like you’re up late working, stressed, wired, and then can’t fall asleep until the early hours of the morning? Maybe it’s time to revamp your nighttime routine! Here are some tips on winding down at night and waking up rested and energized!

1. Shut it Off Our electronics are often a form of stimulation. How many times have you laid in bed on your phone and then all the sudden 2 hours has gone by? Our electronics emit blue light which activates the “wake up” areas of our brain and prevents us from feeling sleepy. Try shutting off all electronics and bright lights an hour before you go to sleep. If you must use electronics, try blue-light blocking aps light Twilight for cellphones and f.lux for laptops.

2. Journal that Stress Away Are you stressed about all the things you have to do? Are you feeling angry? Sad? Excited? Happy? Write it down! Journaling helps you get all your thoughts out so your mind isn’t racing into the late hours of the night. It is also useful to make a “to-do list” for the next day so you’re not stressing yourself out hoping you’ll remember what needs to be done.

3. Don’t Hate, Meditate Meditating before bed is another great way to clear your mind and relax before catching some Z’s. Feeling your breath move up and down your body, cleansing your cells will put you in a dream-like state.

For more tips on winding down at night, check out this post: http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-22522/7-evening-rituals-to-have-a-stress-free-night-every-night.html?utm_source=mbg&utm_medium=email&utm_content=daily&utm_campaign=151125-7-evening-rituals-to-have-a-stress-free-night-every-night

#ssn #wellness #sleep #volunteer #mental health #wellbeing #UoGuelph

why I love being a volunteer

My desire to interact with people and understand their individual needs led me to my present position at the Student Support Network. But, what does The Student Support Network mean to me?

To me, The Student Support Network is: community, comfort, strength and the calm in a storm. As cheesy as it sounds, it’s truly like a breath of fresh air. Volunteering for such an amazing network has been so fulfilling. Not only am I provided the chance to support and guide others, but I have learned so much from those around me. To my fellow volunteers, I have never met such a caring, up-beat group of people. Each and every volunteer is uniquely individual, brings their own special touches to the SSN community and truly makes the Student Support Network the compassionate community it is.

Though I’ve only been involved with the SSN for a short period, I have already gained invaluable skills. First, my ability to listen and interpret what others are saying has increased exponentially. Rather than listening to respond, I have learned to listen to understand. I have grasped how to guide my own and other’s decision making and how to tackle problems before they become insurmountable. Also, this experience has made me recognize that although individuals can be involved in the same environment, everyone has different values, practices, and understandings that influence how they experience the environment.

I am looking forward to my future with the Student Support Network, but I do have one regret- that I didn’t join it sooner

#volunteer #ssn #support #mental health #uoguelph

My experience as a SSN volunteer for the first time

I still remember sitting beside the SSN table during club days last year and I was very intrigued by the tasks each volunteer took on while being part of SSN. I took my chance at applying to be part of the team as well and was very pleased when I was offered the opportunity to be part of the team! It was one of the best decisions I made during my time in Guelph! This is my first year being a volunteer with SSN and my final year of undergrad. Knowing that I'm part of a supportive community during my final year of undergrad is an amazing feeling.

As a volunteer I have the opportunity to be part of a support system that welcomes anyone to come by and talk about anything that's on their mind. We listen, support and offer students with the resources that they need.

I am extremely happy that UofG provides students with such resources because university can definitely take a toll on an individual's health. It's moments like these where talking to someone and having someone listen to you makes a huge difference.

Would you like to learn more about SSN? On Tuesday, October 4th at the UC from 11-2, we will be giving students more information about what SSN does. Additionally, since Thanksgiving is just around the corner, students will also have the opportunity to write what they are thankful for. Come by and check us out!

My Thoughts on Being an SSN Volunteer

This year was my first year being a part of the Student Support Network (SSN) and I can honestly say that it was an amazing and rewarding experience. Firstly, you get to know that you are making a difference in the university community. Even with so many students on campus, it is still possible to feel alone. When students come in, they need someone to be there for them. Maybe they don’t feel comfortable discussing it with their family or friends, and they just need someone to listen to them at that particular time. Even though we cannot tell the students who come in what to do, so many of them still feel relieved by the end. They are happy that we are there to listen to them in a non-judgmental way. Sometimes, when we give resources, you can see the glimmer of hope in their eyes that there may be someone out there who can help them with their specific concern. This volunteer position has been so fulfilling knowing that we are able to help a student and possibly connect them to the resource they need. Either way, we are helping the student just by being there with them in the moment and empathizing with them. It is truly rewarding to know that I am a part of a program that provides so much support to students.

In addition to being able to help people and make a difference on campus, being an SSN volunteer has given me the opportunity to meet all the wonderful people who make up the SSN, and I am proud to call them my friends. First of all, shout-out to my team, they are simply AMAZING. I think I can speak on behalf of everyone when I say that each team was an amazing fit for each person. My team is the most understanding, supportive, and hilarious group of ladies that I know. Every meeting, we discuss our good points and the not-so-good points of our week. Either way, we always support each other; we help each other get through the tough times, while celebrating the good times. Furthermore, our team leader supports us in anything we do, whether it’s whatever is going on in our life at that particular time, or reminding us that we were hired for a reason and that we have the skills to do our job. She also helps us and reassures us when we feel the way we approached a drop-in or the way they left the space was not the best. Lastly, the rest of the SSN team consists of such lovely and straight-up awesome people. I’m pretty sure that I have spent way more time in the space having life chats, talking about TV shows, and laughing way too hard than actually getting any work done. Honestly, they are the most kind and understanding people you will ever meet. I have truly loved every minute of being part of the Student Support Network, and I am excited to say that I will be returning next year. I definitely encourage everyone to apply because it is an experience you will never regret! If you are interested in being an SSN Volunteer check out our page for more information and to access our online application. Deadline to apply for next year is February 26th at 4pm! : https://www.uoguelph.ca/counselling/student-support-network

#ssn volunteering

Why We Need to #KeepTalking

So the 2016 annual #BellLetsTalk day has come to a close, raising close to 6.3 million dollars in 24 hours. WOW! This is incredible!!! Another year has gone by and I am in awe of the level of personal sharing, honesty, support and kindness that this day has received. I am proud to be surrounded by individuals who support ending the stigma around mental illness by tweeting, texting, or sharing on Facebook.

However, I am here to talk about the other 364 days of the year. The ones where sharing your thoughts on mental health don't raise money. The ones that somehow seem harder to talk about depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and countless other recognized psychological disorders or diseases. Or, just about how you’re feeling that day, the highs and lows of daily life.

How is it that yesterday everything seemed a little easier to share? Just for a second. Maybe you even held that hope that today would be the same and even tomorrow, but somehow it’s not. Somehow it feels the same as before.

Or, maybe you do notice a difference, maybe people are reaching out, thanking you for being honest, checking in with you today to see how you’re doing. But are you wondering when that will end? Because sometimes I do. Sometimes I worry that this day creates a hype (not to discredit it, because I LOVE what it does), but makes it trendy to be talking about mental health. Makes it “cool” or even just “ok” to be showing support and advocating for yourself and others who might be experiencing a mental illness.

But what I am often left with is what now? What happens in the 364 days until the next #BellLetsTalk day? Will people care? Will people notice? Will stigma still exist? Will I be judged? What will change?

The thing is that a lot of people will continue to feel alone in this battle, continue to feel judged, discriminated against and feel that there is something wrong with them.

This is why I am here, asking, begging, all of you to #KeepTalking about mental health.

And if you haven't started talking about it take that first step in trying to. Reach out to a family member, friend, teacher, co-worker, boss, anyone. Or if you think someone you know if going through something check-in with them. Ask them how they are doing, and show them you really care about the answer. You never know the impact a caring conversation can have.

Lets spend the next year continuing to talk about mental health and mental illness, because we know that mental illness is not mental weakness. And we know that the more support we have around us, the more resources we seek out, the greater chance we have at feeling even a little bit better. Maybe we take baby steps to reach these goals. Like checking in with a friend and listening for more than the “I’m fine” response we seem to be accustomed to. Or, educating someone who uses offensive and belittling language perhaps without knowing the damage their words cause. Or even taking the time we need to take care of ourselves.

But most importantly, maybe we just keep talking even when its hard, even if you’re scared no one will hear you, even when it doesn't raise money. Maybe this is the way we create a society that is safe and accepting, one that promotes love and kindness, and one that accepts our individual strengths and weaknesses seeing value in all of these things.

So please, lets #KeepTalking.

#keeptalking bellletstalk

Where the Sidewalk Ends

Listen to the MUSTN'TS, child,

Listen to the DON'TS

Listen to the SHOULDN'TS

The IMPOSSIBLES, the WONT'S

Listen to the NEVER HAVES

Then listen close to me-

Anything can happen, child,

ANYTHING can be

Shel Silverstein, Where The Sidewalk Ends;

As the exam season approaches, it may be tempting to give in to negative thoughts. Remember:

thoughts are not facts! It may be difficult to see the light at the end of the tunnel. I can assure you that it's there, and that you will be stronger in the end for getting through this difficult time.

During this stressful time I urge everyone to take the opportunity to practice self care. Be mindful of how long you have been working. Be self compassionate. Take a study break. Go for some exercise. Read a book that's not related to class. Reach out to friends and family for support. Get eight hours of sleep. Most of all, don't give up on yourself. You can do this.

-Kyle

It's very important to take care of yourself! And what better time to do so than during exam period and during the christmas holidays! Here are your self-care challenges for everyday of the month. Happy Holidays from the SSN - good luck with exams and see you next year!~ We are open during the exam period Monday-Friday from 12pm-8pm. Let's Talk!

-Amy

Self Care

Did you know that we have our own Pinterest account! We have great pinterest boards on study tips, self care ideas, inspirational quotes, and much more! Check us out!

https://www.pinterest.com/SSNGuelph/self-care/

Self Care Activities in Guelph

Feeling Stressed? Looking for a study break that doesn't involve binge watching your current favourite show? (…although I have to say this is one of my “go-to’s”). Why don't you try these fun things to do in Guelph:

1. Go Downtown

Not in the typically thought of Trappers, Franks, Doogies, etc idea, but hop on the bus and wander through the cute and cozy streets of downtown Guelph. Being a fifth year student I’ve been around the block once or twice, but every time I decide to spend some time downtown I discover a new hidden gem.

Perhaps you love shopping, and in this case there are tons of places to poke around, maybe The Patch, or Harmony, to name a few of my favourites. Or maybe you’d like to sit somewhere cozy and grab a tea, you could try the Red Brick Cafe! If you’re looking for a little more activity then you could try skating in the Market Square which opens once winter is truly upon us. You can rent skates and spend some time enjoying the rink. If you’re looking for a more relaxed study break, you could try Play With Clay, a paint-it-yourself pottery place. A great holiday gift for someone, or a special treat for yourself, working on something at Play With Clay gives you a fun break from school and a cool thing to take home with you!

From clothes, to coffee, to food, to furniture, and even activities this downtown area of ours is quaint and cute! And might be the perfect place to forget about that term paper for an hour or two.

2. Stay on Campus

I know what you’re thinking…. “But I’m trying to get away from this place”, but hear me out just for a second. Our campus is a beautiful place filled with its own stress busting activities.

On those sunny days when you just need a break from Res, The Library, Thorn, or the Science Complex the Arboretum is a little sanctuary right here on our very own campus. It is home to 8.2 kilometres of trails, 1,700 different kinds of tress or shrubs and is open from dawn until dusk everyday. How cool is that!? From set trails, to gardens, this place is the perfect escape!

If you're more interested in art and staying warm, why not head across Johnston Green and find shelter in the warmth of the MacDonald Stewart Art Centre. The Art Gallery of Guelph is home to works by Canadian artists, as well as some international pieces. This gallery is a premier art gallery within Canada, and it is on our campus! How neat! So if you’re interested in art and culture why not head across campus from Tuesday to Sunday between noon and 5pm! The best part about these two places, they’re free!

#selfcare stress guelph campus downtown

SSN’s Quick Study Snacks!

Hello there! It’s getting closer to exam time, which means stress levels are on the rise! Here’s something you don’t want to stress about: your stomach growling while studying and you not having time to prepare an intricate snack to feed it. Need some ideas for good study snacks that won’t get in the way of your study time? Here are some (decently) healthy and quick snacks you can make and enjoy during studying!

1. Peanut butter and apples

This snack is literally just these two ingredients, so it does not take much time at all! Just cut up some apples, slab on some peanut butter, and enjoy! You can also add oatmeal if you want to make it a bit more filling. This can also be done with celery instead if you don’t like apples. (5)

2. Make a smoothie

Add your favourite fruit (berries, mango, bananas, peaches-whatever you like!) with some yogurt, dates (it just adds sweetness!), milk, and orange juice. You can even add spinach or kale to make it a bit more filling, without really changing the flavour! (3)

3. Carrots with hummus

Add some vegetables to your diet by cutting up some carrots (or just use baby carrots) and dipping them in your favourite flavour of hummus. You can also change it up by using any combination of dip and veggies you’d like! (4)

4. Crackers with peanut butter and bananas

Use bread crackers (non-salted if you want it to be healthier) and spread on some peanut butter. Add a few slices of banana for an awesome and healthy study snack! (6)

5. Kale chips

Cut up some kale into bite size pieces. Drizzle some olive oil and salt and bake in the oven at 350 °F until the edges are brown, but not burnt (about 10 minutes). (1)

6. Pita nachos

If you’re feeling really ambitious (or just procrastinating) you can make some nachos. Just break up a pita in half and again into wedges (as many as you’d like). Stack them onto a baking tray. Sprinkle on grated cheese in between the layers and on top, along with your favourite toppings, such as meat, tomatoes, olives, peppers, and green onions. Bake for 5 minutes in the oven at 350 °F. Enjoy with salsa and sour cream! (2)

Hope you enjoy these recipes and good luck with your studying!

-Yasmin

These ideas come from experience and are supported by the Canadian Nutrient File!

Government of Canada. (2016, July 14). Canadian nutrient file. Retrieved from https://food-nutrition.canada.ca/cnf-fce/index-eng.jsp

Picture References

1. Aichess, K. (2013, October 29). Asian kale chips. Retrieved from http://www.turningground.com/2013/10/29/asian-kale-chips/

2. C., L. (2013, April 26). Mediterranean pita nachos. Retrieved from https://www.landolakes.com/recipe/19151/mediterranean-pita-nachos/

3. Cooking Classy. (2016, January 2). Strawberry spinach green smoothie. Retrieved from http://www.cookingclassy.com/strawberry-spinach-green-smoothie/

4. Debbie. (2011, January 11). Lemon and hummus. Retrieved from http://pencilandfork.net/2011/01/lemon-hummus/

5. ReadySetEat. (n.d.). Apple slices with creamy peanut butter dip. Retrieved from http://www.readyseteat.com/recipes-Apple-Slices-with-Creamy-Peanut-Butter-Dip-6062.html

6. Rachel. (2012, February 22). Go-to breakfasts, Instagram edition. Retrieved from http://www.theavidappetite.com/home/2012/2/22/go-to-breakfasts-instagram-edition.html

#ssn healthyeating examtime selfcare food nutrition

What is #ssn?

#ssn

Yes, we are well aware of how awful these days leading up to reading week can be for students. We too feel the almost crippling anxiety that seems to come hand in hand with the plethora of midterms and assignments thrown students’ way just prior to reading week. Why do professors all decide to make everything due on the same days? Why do they all schedule their midterms within the same week, or even on the same days? Do they not talk to one another about these things? One will never know the answers to these questions really. We’ve all just grown accustomed to having no social lives or fun of any kind leading up to reading week; spending all of our time in the library cramming for midterms or racing to complete an assignment before a deadline.

But fear not! There are things you can do to alleviate some of that pressure and stress! It is important to de-stress every once in a while, especially during peak midterm season. There are many different ways one can practice self-care, and self-care is defined differently for every person. We all have special little things that we do to escape the hardships of our lives from time to time, to unwind and relax and forget about our worries. In case you were looking for ideas for new self-care activities, or just are confused about what exactly self-care is, here are some examples:

Catch up on some of your favourite TV shows you’ve been missing out on, or watch a movie you’ve been meaning to watch for a while. Sometimes nothing feels better than just letting you’re mind go completely blank while watching guilty pleasure television (e.g. The Bachelor, The Vampire Diaries, Keeping Up With The Kardashians, Pretty Little Liars, etc.)

Go for a run or a jog! Sometimes the best way to clear your head is to move your body and redirect your emotions away from your anger towards your brain for its inability to retain an entire textbook of information. But in all seriousness, a quick workout can be great stress relief and is good for you to boot

Journal a little, or write some poetry, or a short story, or a song; whatever floats your boat! Focus on an activity that isn’t work for a little while, even if it’s just for 15 minutes or so. It allows you to use your mind in a different way that could actually prove to be beneficial to your studying later on (maybe? I don’t know)

Listen to music and have a little dance party! Seriously, even if it’s just for a few minutes, it could really help your overall mental health. Let your mind relax and take a dance break from all the stressing and worrying for a while. It’s important to take care of yourself, and music can help remind you of better times when you weren’t studying constantly

Hang out with friends, do something social! Maybe get together with some friends for a quick bite to eat, everyone’s got to eat right? Your friends can be amazing at helping to distract you from your studying anxiety, even if it’s just for a little while. No one can cheer you up and make you feel better like they can

Hopefully this gives you a bit of an idea of how to better care for yourself during these dark times of pre-reading week midterms and assignments. There are so many things you can do to cheer yourself up at times of hardship, and everyone is different in terms of what makes them feel better. It’s okay to be different, being different is awesome! That’s a whole other topic for another day, but the important thing is that you do what’s right for you. No one knows how to take care of you better than, well… you. So good luck from the SSN team on the remainder of your semester, and don’t forget to not let stress and tests get the best of you because you’re awesome :)

-Reece F.

#self care #love yourself #midterm stress #student support network

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You don’t have to be perfect to inspire other people. Let them be inspired by the way you deal with your struggles, your heartache and your imperfections.

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