About Wellbeing
What constitutes wellness, the state of being, and remaining well?
1. Values and Meaning
Most happy people have important beliefs and values that guide their choices in life, plus habits of reflection, quiet thought, and ways of calming themselves. Mentors, people whose wisdom and inner strength you admire and trust, are also very useful. These can easily be people you know already. Is your life purposeful? Are you making the right decisions about your goals, how you spend your time (and money), setting boundaries and limits on certain people and activities that are deflecting you from your desired goal?
2. Social Connections
Much of our meaning and sense of worth come from our relationships.
3. Altruism
"Think global, act local." There are almost certainly some initiatives or roles you could take in creating a better university, neighbourhood, or workplace. "What comes around goes around." If you received goodwill and encouragement lately, have you passed it on to others? How open and tolerant of differences are you? Empathy and listening carefully really open you up, and reduce loneliness and isolation.
4. Creativity
When did you last catch yourself doing something spontaneously? It's time to sing, paint, dance, play an instrument, act, tell stories, joke around, embroider, cook, or do anything with sensual enjoyment, beauty and grace. Join with others to jam, rehearse, debate, wonder, think or create something together.
5. Care of Mind & Body
It's very important in student life, and in life generally, to get enough sleep, vigorous exercise and good food. Moderate recreations, regular relaxation and just day-dreaming in positive ways can also enhance feelings of well being. You might need to look at the balance of study, paid employment, friends, family and personal time, and your workload and time management; it's really easy for things to get out of whack. What are your good points, the things you can give yourself credit for? Perfectionism, self-doubt and unrealistic expectations can easily sour your life if you let them. Above all don't forget what makes you laugh, what delights you or gives you a sense of wonder. Maybe it's time to let go and have fun? You're probably doing all right, if you can keep things in balance. See our downloadable page Work Rest and Play.
If you would like to discuss any aspect of wellbeing with a counsellor, please contact the counselling service.