Mental health encompasses one’s biological, psychological and social well-being. It affects our thoughts, emotions, behaviors, decision-making and interpersonal relationships. Mental health is more than the absence of a mental illness—it’s integral to our overall wellbeing and quality of life (NIMH, 2023).

As a university student, you may experience a range of issues that can have an impact on your mental health, such as strained relationships, being away from home, increased anxiety, feeling down, difficulty concentrating and/or lack of motivation. These mental health concerns or stressful events may lead to diminished academic performance or reduce your ability to participate in daily activities. Balancing academic commitments, a social life and self-care can be challenging. Often, taking care of ourselves is last on the list. But it is crucial to prioritize your mental health and overall wellbeing. Fortunately, self-care can be more straightforward than you might imagine

Self-care means taking the time to do things that help us live well and improve both our physical health and mental health. When it comes to our mental health, self-care can help us manage stress, lower our risk of illness and increase our energy.

Self-care is like a personal toolbox of activities and practices that are tailored to each individual. Just as people have varying preferences and needs, self-care can look quite different from one person to another. The key is to discover what suits you best, helps you feel good and improves your overall well being.

For some individuals, self-care may revolve around maintaining a consistent gym routine because they thrive on the energy and sense of achievement it brings. Others might discover self-care in moments of solitude spent reading a book, meditating or introspecting. Some may feel recharged by spending time with friends and family, while others prefer solitary moments for relaxation.

It's also about considering what you need at a specific moment. Sometimes, self-care is about pushing yourself to overcome challenges or face fears, such as trying new experiences or seeking help from a professional. On other occasions, it's about giving yourself a break and allowing indulgence, like treating yourself to a favorite snack or taking a day off to rest.

It’s crucial to take care of yourself.