As we end a challenging term, post lockdown realities are coming to light and students are especially vulnerable to stress associated with this. As we all adjust to the new normal, students are asking questions around what is in store for their future and what it may look like?. This uncertainty can impact health in a variety of ways, causing stress, minor illnesses and feelings of anxiety. The next two weeks are a perfect time to rest and repair, consolidate and evaluate by doing a few of the following:
Talk nicely to yourself
You are fantastic, you can do so many great things already, you can build and grow on the knowledge and skills you have, you have so many options for the future which you may not know about yet
Look at how you spend your time
There are 24 hrs in a day, draw up a grid, factor in sleep, school, homework – then how much time do you have left for exercise, connectedness and part time work? Be realistic, school is a priority and you should make time to do well
Be generous
Do something for someone else, they will be so grateful and even if they are not, you can know that you did a good deed. Help around the house, volunteer your time or make a donation
Be active
Physical activity boosts energy,it also supports brain health and stimulates the circulation. A regular hour of exercise a day can do wonders for your wellbeing
Eat well
Commit to increasing your fruit and vegetable intake by finding new ways to include them in meals and snacks. Try to avoid sugary foods which provide energy but no valuable nutrients. Being under stress can cause poor choices, so be aware of what you are using to fuel your body
Self help tools from the Ministry
Feeling down, worried or stressed (SPARX)
Learn more about mental health issues (Mental Wealth)
Recognising and understanding depression and anxiety (The Lowdown)
Aroha is a chatbot that uses Facebook Messenger to provide practical, evidence-based tools to manage stress, maintain social connection and stay active (The University of Auckland)
Youthline’s web chat, where young people can talk one-to-one with a real person
Melon Health has a range of online resources specifically for young people
RainbowYOUTH provides free 1:1 peer support for youth in the rainbow community, their friends and whānau.