Mental Health

The higher education environment presents students with many challenges that can negatively affect their mental health. Increased academic pressure, financial worries, lack of sleep, uncertainty about the future, or social isolation are only some of the factors that may contribute to long-term stress, anxiety, or depression. It is therefore extremely important to ensure support for students’ mental health and to create an environment in which students feel safe, welcome, and respected.

Why take care of mental health?

Health is a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity, as defined by the Constitution of the World Health Organization. We only have one health, and we must take care of it if we want to be productive individuals and members of society. Long-term neglect of mental health care can lead to various physical symptoms, ranging from hair loss or insomnia to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.

In general, it is recommended to avoid unhealthy habits, an unhealthy lifestyle, and stress factors, and to get enough sleep, physical activity, a varied and balanced diet, and to maintain healthy relationships with the people around us. Following these recommendations may not be an easy task for students at Higher Education Institutions.

Communication is key

In difficult situations, the worst feeling is often loneliness and the sense that we are dealing with everything on our own. A simple rule applies here: do not isolate yourself and do not be afraid to reach out. Be honest with yourself and your needs, and if you feel that you are unable to cope with something, do not be ashamed to talk about the problem.

Communicate with the people around you, write to your friends, and meet new people in communities. Do not be ashamed to seek professional help. Pay attention to your surroundings — if someone suddenly changes their behaviour in a significant way, it is important to be perceptive, patient, and supportive of your loved ones. Listen and truly hear others, talk, share. Mutual support and understanding are essential factors of a healthy relationship and good mental health.

Good study habits

Me – Do not be afraid to work with your emotions, turn to the people around you, seek advice, or ask for professional help.

Relaxation and mental hygiene

Sometimes we forget to breathe deeply, switch off from school, work, and our surroundings, and set aside time for ourselves.

Sleep

Maintain a regular sleep schedule and get enough sleep. If you are unable to sleep, at least lie down calmly and limit social and visual stim.

Physical activity

It is not necessary to do sports at a high level. Any physical activity benefits both physical and mental health, even a walk in nature, a short stretch, or walking to the shop.

Nutrition

Drink enough fluids and maintain a regular intake of varied and balanced food supplemented with vitamins.

Good habits also include planning activities, dividing tasks into smaller manageable parts and then rewarding yourself after completing them, or separating the place where you study from the place where you spend your free time.

What do Higher Education Institutions offer?

For students who are struggling, most Higher Education Institutions already offer support within their own structures, in the form of professional consultations provided by counselling centres or support communities. Recently, the number of Higher Education Institutions that listen to their students through ombudspersons has also been increasing.

We strongly recommend that all students who find themselves in a difficult situation try to find out what services are provided by their Higher Education Institution.