There are many simple things you can do to improve your own wellbeing and support the wellbeing of those around you
Focusing on the basics will give you a solid foundation to stay well and thrive. If you are healthy, you will be able to look after your mates.
A great starting point are the five ways to wellbeing.*
STAYING CONNECTED is critical to boosting your wellbeing
- Meet up with some old friends. If you're in second- or third-year, catch up with some old college mates
- Go to OUSA Clubs and Societies they have over 150 groups you could join
KEEP LEARNING, and seek new experiences
- Learn a new language
- Visit the museum – it's just across the road from Uni
- Listen to an inspiring podcast
BEING ACTIVE not only improves your physical health but can decrease stress and anxiety
- Go for a walk up Baldwin Street
- Step outside and enjoy the fine weather Dunedin has to offer (occasionally)
GIVING makes you feel good inside
- Compliment your flatmate on their new outfit or hairstyle
- Get involved with volunteering, Unicrew has many groups that need your help
TAKE NOTICE of the environment and people around you
- Go and sit down at Woodhaugh Gardens and enjoy nature
- Listen to your favourite music
Look out for others, too.
As well as looking out for ourselves we need to look out for our mates. Take notice of your flatmates, your friends that you go to lectures with. It can be as simple as asking someone how they are and listening to their response and actions.
* The Five Ways to Wellbeing were developed by the New Economics Foundation (NEF) on behalf of the Foresight Commission in the UK and adapted for New Zealand by the Mental Health Foundation who have extensive resources that help you understand these five ways.