We understand that the current Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak is extremely worrying. It is easy to feel overwhelmed and that’s why we have put together a few self-care tips for you during this time.
Look after yourself
Whilst staying at home, it is important that you take care of yourself and try to remain as healthy as possible:
- Try to maintain a routine and avoid sleeping too much.
- Exercise daily if you are feeling well enough – there are many home workouts available online, including these from Les Mills which are free for University Sports Centre members.
- Try and get some fresh air outside if you are able to.
- Stay hydrated and eat well. BBC Good Food have many recipe ideas.
- Avoid ‘fake news’ about the current situation. Instead keep up to date via our webpage, Public Health England and the NHS.
- If social media is making you feel anxious, take a break from it.
- Keep your room and home clean and tidy. A clutter free environment can help towards a healthy mind.
Supporting those around you
We can make a big difference by supporting the people around us and showing solidarity with our community:
- Check your phone list and see if there’s someone you have been meaning to catch up with for a while. Now could be the time to reach out to them.
- Treat everyone with empathy and compassion and come together to look out for others.
Social distancing doesn’t mean you cannot be social
Whether you are currently in Bristol or at home, it is really important that you keep in contact with family and friends to stay positive. Here are a few ideas for you:
- Video call friends and/or family (e.g. during meal times so you can eat together).
- Netflix party is a new way for you to watch series and films with loved ones.
- Create a joint playlist which you can listen to with friends at the same time.
- Join Facebook community groups for your local area and the SU’s online Living Room.
- Follow Government guidance about social distancing – when this is all over, there will be time to get together.
Wellbeing support
If you need some support, here are a few resources:
- If you are worried about your studies or you feel you need help managing these changes, please contact our Wellbeing teams or email coronavirus-student@bristol.ac.uk.
- Talk Campus is an app which enables you to speak with fellow students from around the world for instant support day and night.
- Big White Wall is a digital support service you can access 24/7 and talk to others anonymously.
- Shout (crisis messenger) offers free mental health support. Text Bristol to 85258 to be connected to a trained volunteer.
- Mind have lots of useful tips if you are feeling anxious.
- Nilaari is a culturally appropriate counselling service providing help and support for Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic people.
Keep up to date
- Visit our webpage for the latest updates.
- Read the NHS Guidance if you have questions about the virus.
- The World Health Organisation offer specific country guidance.
Would you like to share your tips for self-isolation? Have you got a stay at home goal? Know any tips for exercising in small spaces? Got great recipes for tinned food? We would love to hear from you! Get in contact at student-comms@bristol.ac.uk and you could feature in our next blog.