You don’t have to go through it alone
When it comes to physical health, it is common knowledge that exercise, an adequate amount of sleep, and a good diet are conductive towards maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Unfortunately, many people fail to make a conscious effort when it comes to mental health and wellbeing. Neglecting to take the time to set up good practices and care for both your physical and mental health can put strain on your overall wellness and can contribute towards the development or perpetuation of mental illness. Taking good care of your physical health can have a direct, positive effect on the state of your psychological health and vice versa, but there are also other things to consider where your mental health is concerned.
Stress management is a large factor when it comes to mental health. Everyone handles the stressors of day to day life in different ways, although, incorporating “me” time is something you should think about including in your daily routine. Setting aside an hour each day to disconnect from your school, work, and social life in order to do something for yourself—by yourself—can work wonders on your stress levels, and thus your state of mental wellbeing.
When a proper stress management routine is not established, the build-up of stress can impair your ability to function and become overwhelming. When you feel like you are struggling, reaching out for help is a natural response, but sometimes there are things which can make you hesitate to do so. Regardless of how close a friend or family member may be to you, sharing how you feel and where these emotions place your state of mental wellbeing can be daunting. For many students who are leaving home for the first time, finding someone to entrust your thoughts amidst the masses of unfamiliar faces can be a difficult task.
In situations where reaching out to family and friends feels challenging, it is important to know that you are not left without options when looking for a confidante. If you are dealing with feelings of depression, anxiety, loneliness, stress, or with sleeping or relationship issues, then don’t hesitate to take advantage of the healthy living resources that are available to you.
At the University of Guelph, Counselling Services can provide you with the support you may need while working to through any personal challenges that may hinder your success in the realm of academics as well as other areas of your life. Open all year from 8:15 a.m. to 4:15 p.m., appointments with a therapist or counsellor for individual counselling sessions can easily be made by visiting their front desk located on the third floor of the University Centre. Walk-in sessions are also offered weekdays from 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. during the fall and winter semesters, and from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. during the summer semester.
If you are concerned about your mental health, want to learn more about your mental health and wellbeing options at the University of Guelph, or would like more information about what to expect during counselling, you can visit the Counselling Services website where a variety of online resources have been made available.