Source: Pixabay
Hi, friends! I’m so happy you’re here. :D
As mentioned in our announcement, the 26th of February 2024 is the first day of Student Mental Health Week. In a previous blog, we talked about Homesickness (which you can read here); but today’s blog is devoted to resources and tips to help your wellbeing and to have an enjoyable mobility experience.
First and foremost, understand that most of us have experienced stress or anxiety, so whether you’re a student, a teacher, an intern, or a volunteer; these tips may be able to help you too!
Please note, that the following are tips, but we at OLS highly recommend that you always reach out to professionals who are trained in mental health if you are in need.
Source: Pixabay
1. International Students
Perhaps you're in a new country for the first time thanks to your mobility and find it hard to adapt. Who better to talk to than other international students and organizations dedicated to working with this demographic?! One of the best organizations to connect with is the Erasmus Student Network.
2. Support for Students in Europe.
No matter where you are in Europe, there’s support for you. Click here for the European Education Area's (EEA) list of country-specific resources that focus on student well-being.
3. Your Host School's Resources
Don't be shy about reaching out to your school's resources and advisors! They've helped hundreds of other students in the past and would be happy to assist you too. Schools may have different names for services, so look for offices or departments with names like, "Student Support Services", "Counselor", or "Advisor."
If you're not sure who to turn to, connect with your mobility coordinator who should be able to steer you in the right direction.
4. Don't Isolate
No matter how tempted you may feel to stay alone and suffer in silence, don't! If your mobility program reaches out to you to meet or join events or even just to check in with you, do respond. These are good opportunities to speak with someone about what’s going on with you. Likely, they can offer resources and strategies to help you manage your difficulties.
Sometimes simply moving your body about and shaking things up may be just the thing you need! Hey, why not get the blood pumping with a solo dance party before going outdoors? That’s a sure way to get your energy flowing. Outdoor activities could be something as easy as going for a walk to discover your new neighborhood or something more elaborate like joining an outdoor group to walk in nature together.
Source: Pixabay
6. Breathe.
Yes. It looks super simple, but believe it or not; sometimes we forget to breathe when we’re stressed out or have a lot on our plates! So, in moments of high anxiety or stress, find a safe space to sit to take a moment to check in with yourself to see if you’re breathing fully. If you aren’t, pause and take a few nice, slow deep breaths. If you can manage, sometimes staring at trees or clouds while breathing like this can help calm and steady your senses.
Negative self-talk has no place here, my friend!
Sometimes during fits of frustration and feeling overwhelmed with life or school challenges, you may forget to be kind to yourself. Well, here’s your gentle reminder that kindness is the way to go.
For example, if you’re having a difficult time understanding something you’re learning in school or a task you have to do for your internship; take a deep breath and remember that it’s ok. You’re learning and doing something new or challenging is simply part of your growth. Take a moment to remind yourself of all the things you didn’t know and then learned. For example, you’re reading this right now, right? :D That’s something you didn’t know how to do and now you do! So be kind to yourself as you navigate and learn your next new skill. :)
Source: Pixabay
8. An Attitude of Gratitude
This last tip is not only fun to say, but it can actually help you! Having an attitude of gratitude, friends, simply means that you take a moment to remember and reflect on what’s going well in your life. What are you grateful for? You could make a list of the people, experiences, or memories that make you happy, feel well nourished and peaceful. Sometimes remembering that you have a cozy home, had a nice meal or enjoyed a good laugh could be things to be grateful for. Think about today, what are you grateful for?
OVER TO YOU
There are many of other resources dedicated to helping students navigate some of the difficult patches of school life, so be sure to do some research to find out what other tips may be useful to you.
What about you? How do you keep your well-being in tip-top shape? Share with us by clicking REPLY below.
Your friendly neighborhood community manager,
Iya :]