Prioritising Wellbeing: A Guide for College Students
By Food & Wellbeing Editor Carolyn Matthews
University life is often depicted as a thrilling mix of lectures, late nights, friendships, and newfound freedom. For many of us, it’s an exciting chapter full of opportunity. But behind this vibrant façade lies the reality that, for countless students, these years are also marked by stress, burnout, and anxiety. Balancing academic expectations, social connections, and personal aspirations is no easy task. Yet, amid this whirlwind, prioritising wellbeing isn’t just beneficial—it’s essential. Here’s how we can make space for our mental and physical health while making the most of our university experience.
1. Understanding What Wellbeing Means
Before diving into strategies, it’s essential to understand what wellbeing truly encompasses. Wellbeing isn’t just the absence of illness; it’s a dynamic state of balance where one’s emotional, physical, and social needs are met. It involves feeling content, resilient, and connected — the kind of happiness that’s rooted in more than just temporary moments of fun. It’s about sustaining a sense of purpose and satisfaction even during challenging times.
For college students, this can mean different things. For some, it’s maintaining a supportive friend group; for others, it’s achieving personal goals or managing stress effectively. Wellbeing is personal, and understanding what it means for you is the first step in prioritising it.
2. Setting Boundaries: The Power of Saying No
One of the hardest lessons to learn is that you can’t do it all. College life often comes with an overwhelming number of opportunities—clubs, sports, volunteer work, social events, internships, and more. While it’s tempting to say “yes” to everything, spreading yourself too thin can lead to exhaustion, reduced productivity, and even resentment toward activities that once brought joy.
Learning to set boundaries and say ‘no’ when necessary is a powerful act of self-care. It demonstrates self-respect and ensures that you allocate time and energy to the things that truly matter. This doesn’t mean shutting out experiences altogether. Instead, it’s about being selective. Take a moment to ask yourself, ‘Will this contribute to my growth, happiness, or overall wellbeing?’ If the answer is no, it might be worth skipping.
When you’re constantly on the go, it’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing yourself to others. Your classmate might be balancing five extracurriculars and still seem on top of their coursework, but everyone’s capacity is different. Remind yourself that your journey is unique, and setting limits doesn’t make you any less successful — it makes you more mindful.
3. The Role of Nutrition in Mental Health
It’s often said that you are what you eat, and science backs this up. The brain is an energy intensive organ, consuming roughly 20% of the body’s calories. The food we choose fuels our cognitive functions, mood, and overall mental health. High-sugar, ultra-processed foods
might offer a quick energy spike, but they’re often followed by a slump that can leave you feeling tired and irritable.
Incorporating nutrient-dense foods—like leafy greens, berries, nuts, fish, and whole grains— can boost brain function and improve mood. Hydration, too, is crucial. It’s easy to overlook water when there’s coffee and energy drinks on every corner, but even mild dehydration can impact focus and mental clarity. Aim for balance and moderation. University isn’t about strict diets, but understanding that what we eat can power our best thinking is a step towards healthier habits.
Eating well isn’t about perfection; it’s about making sustainable choices. If you’re rushing between classes and grab a quick snack, don’t stress — just aim to balance it out with healthier options later. Small adjustments like cooking simple meals with friends or meal-prepping on weekends can make a significant difference in how you feel.
4. Sleep: The Non-Negotiable Foundation
Sleep is often sacrificed on the altar of last-minute study sessions or late-night socialising. However, chronic sleep deprivation can negatively affect memory, decision-making, and emotional stability. Research shows that adults need around 7–9 hours of sleep per night for optimal functioning. This might sound unrealistic during busy semesters, but protecting your sleep schedule as much as possible pays off in the long run.
Try to establish a consistent bedtime and wake-up routine, even on weekends. Limit screen time before bed, as blue light can interfere with your body’s natural sleep cycle. Investing in rest is investing in your academic performance and overall wellbeing. Remember that all nighters may seem like a badge of honour, but their cost often outweighs their benefits. A well-rested mind is sharper, more creative, and more resilient.
5. Physical Activity: Moving Beyond Exercise for Fitness
Exercise isn’t just for physical health; it’s one of the most effective stress relievers available. Physical activity releases endorphins, which can boost mood and reduce feelings of anxiety. The good news? This doesn’t mean you have to commit to gruelling gym sessions or be part of a sports team. Simple activities like walking, yoga, or even dancing around your room can be incredibly beneficial.
Finding activities you enjoy is key. If you’re not into traditional workouts, explore campus fitness classes, hiking, or joining a recreational team. Moving your body in ways that feel good helps you maintain a routine and ensures that exercise isn’t just another chore.
6. Building a Supportive Network
Social connections are at the heart of wellbeing. While it’s easy to get caught up in academic pressures, making time to nurture friendships and build a support network is crucial. Surrounding yourself with people who uplift you, whether they’re friends, family members, or mentors, provides a buffer against the stresses of university life.
It’s also important to be mindful of toxic relationships. If certain friendships consistently leave you feeling drained or anxious, it might be time to reassess. Healthy relationships
should foster mutual respect, support, and positivity. Joining campus clubs or societies that align with your interests can also be a great way to meet like-minded peers and expand your social circle.
7. Embracing Mindfulness and Self-Reflection
Amid the chaos of deadlines and social activities, carving out time for self-reflection can make a huge difference. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation or journaling, help increase self-awareness and reduce stress. Even spending a few minutes each day focusing on your breathing or jotting down your thoughts can promote clarity and calm.
Mindfulness isn’t about achieving a state of constant peace; it’s about learning to respond to challenges with a greater sense of awareness. This practice helps you tune into your needs and recognise when you need to pause and recharge. Guided meditation apps or simple breathing exercises between classes can be a good place to start.
8. Seeking Help When Needed
Finally, understanding that it’s okay to seek help is vital. There’s no shame in reaching out for support; in fact, doing so is a sign of strength and self-respect. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, talking to a professional or even just sharing with a trusted friend can make all the difference.
In conclusion, prioritising wellbeing during university is not about striving for a flawless balance but about recognising what you need to thrive. It’s an ongoing process that involves self-awareness, kindness to yourself, and making deliberate choices that support your health and happiness. By implementing even a few of these strategies, we can all create a more balanced and fulfilling university experience.