London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine

Ella Noyes, MSc Public Health

If you find yourself having a bad day or a challenging week, take note of these quick tips to try and help boost your mood:

• Speak
  If you’re having a low day and you feel a bit lonely and isolated, try and confide in someone you trust. Whether that be a friend, a family member or a counsellor, it will help to make you feel better knowing you have shared some of your thoughts and feelings with others. They will probably give you advice and this will help make you feel better.
• Exercise
  I find that getting my body moving really helps me to shake off any negative thoughts I am having. I personally love swimming as I find being in the water helps to take my mind off the present. Do some form of sport or exercise you enjoy, and I promise it will make you feel 10x better. Even a walk around your local park will help.
• Eat well
  Eating good, healthy food will help to make you naturally feel more energised. This is likely to boost your mood too. Also, cooking is fun for many people and may help to take your mind off things whilst doing so.
• Take time out
  One thing I found throughout the MSc was feeling like I needed to work all the time. However, it is essential to take time out and relax, watch a movie or chill out with your friends. Constantly studying will wear you out and may cause burnout, which may make you feel low. Taking time out and putting yourself first will help to stop you from getting down in the first place.

Sapna Kurade, MSc Public Health

To my peers and anyone finding themselves in a similar boat, here are some tried and tested tips:

• Attentional Intelligence
  In a world where multitasking seems like second nature, understand its cost. It's like having too many browser tabs open, depleting your mental energy. Focus on one task at a time, and you'll be surprised at your efficiency.
• Self-care is Paramount
  Always prioritize yourself. As the saying goes, "You can't pour from an empty cup."
• Emotional Awareness
  Be in tune with your feelings. If you're feeling overwhelmed, step back, breathe, and reassess.
• Seek Help
  There's no shame in reaching out. Whether it's academic stress or personal challenges, someone is always ready to lend an ear.
• Initiate Counselling Early
  Build a rapport with the counselling team early on. They're there to guide you, every step of the way.
• Kindness is Key
  Always be gentle with yourself and others. Kindness has the power to transform, to heal, and to connect.

Alan Lim, MSc Demography & Health

Studying abroad is an exciting opportunity but can also bring about unique challenges, including the impact on mental health. Here are some top tips for those who are in similar situations:

• Reach out for support
  Don't hesitate to seek help from friends, classmates, or support services available at your institution.
• Engage in activities that bring you joy
  Find hobbies or interests that can provide a sense of fulfilment and happiness.
• Establish a support network
  Join clubs, organisations, or religious communities that align with your interests and values.
• Prioritise self-care
  Take time for yourself, engage in activities that promote relaxation and well-being, and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
• Seek professional help if needed
  If your mental health concerns persist or worsen, consider reaching out to mental health professionals for guidance and support.

• They also shared a time when their mental health was a concern and how they managed the situation – Read their blog.
• Find more help and resources on mental health by visiting the Mental Health Foundation.
• Want to find out how other students connect? Speak to your course representatives or student ambassadors.
• Seek confidential support from Student Support Services