Whether you’re reading this as a soon-to-be university student, someone in the middle of their studies or a concerned parent with a child who’ll be off to uni soon, it’s very important to take health seriously during university. For most people, this is their first journey into adulthood and independence, meaning there are lots of new things springing up all the time. You’ve never really had to take control of your health until this point – so what are some of the key tips to carry through university?
Always Get Enough Sleep
Most students don’t get enough sleep, and this leads to chronic health problems. Sleep is essential for resting your body and recovering after long study days. It also regulates hormones so you don’t feel hungry all the time and get the urge to binge eat – and you also don’t feel as stressed constantly. Prioritise a good sleep schedule so you’re resting adequate amounts.
Exercise & Move Regularly
It’s too easy to slip into the “uni routine” of sitting at a desk all day and night. You need to get up, move around, and do some exercise. Join the university gym or start running around campus. There will also be plenty of clubs/societies that encourage you to stay fit. You’ll spend so much time sitting down during your studies – and you can’t avoid this – but you need to find time to be active or your long-term health will suffer.
Protect Yourself
Don’t neglect your sexual health when you go to university. Yes, this might be an uncomfortable topic, but you can’t hide from the fact that uni is when a lot of people expand their sexual experiences. It’s totally natural, but you need to protect yourself (and your sexual partners) from any potential problems. Always wear protection and take regular STI tests if you have frequent sex. It’s the best way to ensure you don’t catch anything or spread anything around unknowingly.
Focus On Stress Management
Moving to uni is a massive life change – and this causes significant stress. You’re thrust into this completely new world where you fend for yourself, but then you also have to deal with making new friends for the first time since you started school, plus the stress of actually needing to maintain good grades so you can graduate. It’s arguably one of the most stressful periods in your life, so focus on stress management. Luckily, a couple of the things we’ve already mentioned will help with this – getting enough sleep & staying active – but try to find time in your schedule to take de-stressing breaks. Read a book, go for a relaxing walk or go home for a weekend to visit your family.
Find A Local GP
Always, always, always register with a local GP when you move to university. You never know when you might get sick or need medical advice, and this is harder when you don’t have a GP nearby. Registration takes a few minutes and you’ll have peace of mind knowing that someone can help if necessary.
For the uni students reading this: follow these health tips to make your experience better and less damaging to your long-term health. For the parents reading: forward this to your kids so they can learn the right tips!
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