Whether you’re studying for exams, handling clinical placements, or navigating the complexities of a Master in Nursing Education online, it’s easy to put your wellbeing on the back burner. However, prioritising wellbeing when you’re a student is essential. It can have an impact on your physical and mental health as well as your grades too. The good news is that focusing on wellbeing doesn’t have to take up a lot of time and energy. There are a number of easy ways to do it.
The importance of wellbeing for nursing students
Students often face long hours of study, stressful exams, and even emotional demands during placements and clinical changes. These challenges can take their toll and lead to burnout, especially if you are neglecting your mental and physical health. While it’s essential to look after yourself, prioritising wellbeing is important for a number of different reasons. Studies have shown that students who engage in self-care and prioritise their wellbeing are more likely to perform better academically, making it more likely that they will succeed long term. This shows that it’s not just an investment in your health, but also in your education too.
Strategies for maintaining mental health and physical wellness
There are various ways students can look after their wellbeing. It’s important to note that everyone is different, so you need to find out what works best for you. Trying out different strategies is the best way to find out what’s most effective – here are some practical tips to consider:
Time management
Creating a structured schedule for studies and other responsibilities is a great way to stay on top of everything. It also means you can schedule time for yourself. By managing your time, you can use it more effectively and therefore allocate time to different areas. This will help you feel more in control and reduce the stress of deadlines and exams as much as possible. Setting aside specific blocks of time for self-care can be extremely effective in helping to prevent burnout. Try to use these breaks to do something that you enjoy, whether that’s watching a movie or going for a walk.
Physical health
Your physical health can have an impact on your mental sharpness as well as your emotional balance. This is why it’s important to move your body in order to allow your brain to work properly. By regularly taking part in simple activities like stretching, walking or yoga, you help to reduce stress and improve focus. Even a few minutes of movement can make a difference. It’s also important to make sure your body is getting enough food and nutrients. Food is fuel and that’s exactly what your brain needs to work effectively. Fruit, vegetables and healthy fats help to support brain power.
Mindfulness and stress relief
Mental health also needs to be a priority. Students who are faced with demanding courses, such as nurses, for example, can experience feelings of anxiety and stress. Practising mindfulness is a great way to process these feelings in a healthy way. There are a number of apps, including Headspace and Calm, that can guide you through breathing exercises and meditations. A few minutes each day will help you to stay grounded during stressful periods. Lowering your stress levels is a really effective way to enhance focus.
Social connection
Being a student can be isolating. Especially when exams are just around the corner, it’s easy to hide away in your study bubble. However, this may end up doing more harm than good. Try to stay connected with the world. Keeping in touch with peers and professors is vital for both your academic success and mental wellbeing. Take some time away from your studies to relax with your friends and family. This can be very beneficial and allow you to come back to your desk refreshed.
You might also like to join online study groups or participate in events offered by your programme. This way you can still experience social interaction while working towards your degree. Connecting with other students who are going through the same struggles and challenges as you will help you build a support network. This can be extremely valuable during those stressful busy periods in the academic year.
In summary, being a student is tough. There’s a lot to balance. This can be stressful, which is why it’s so important to prioritise your wellbeing. Doing so will help ensure you’re equipped to deal with the challenges that come with student life. Taking care of yourself comes with a number of different benefits, including helping you perform to the best of your ability in your exams.
