Freshers Week
Navigating Freshers Week: Your Mental Wellbeing Guide
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Welcome to our student mental wellbeing website, a space dedicated to supporting your emotional and psychological health as you embark on your exciting journey at Leeds University. In this section, we'll be addressing the exhilarating yet potentially overwhelming experience of Freshers Week and offering valuable insights on how to prioritise your mental wellbeing during this pivotal time.
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Embracing the Freshers Experience
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Freshers Week marks the beginning of your university adventure—a time to meet new people, explore your campus, and engage in a wide array of social and academic activities. While this is a thrilling chapter, it's important to remember that taking care of your mental health should remain at the forefront of your priorities.
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Strategies for a Positive Freshers Week
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Balance and Boundaries: The Freshers Week schedule can be jam-packed with events, parties, and social gatherings. While it's tempting to attend every activity, remember that it's okay to set boundaries and prioritise self-care. Make time for rest, study, and solitary activities that help you recharge.
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Connect with Others: Freshers Week is an ideal opportunity to make friends and forge connections. Engage in conversations with different people, join clubs or societies that align with your interests, and participate in group activities. Building a support network early on can be immensely beneficial for your mental wellbeing.
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Mindful Socialising: As you attend events and meet new people, practice mindfulness. Be present in the moment, listen actively, and genuinely connect with others. Quality interactions can be more fulfilling than trying to meet a large number of people superficially.
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Explore and Familiarise: Take time to explore the university campus and surrounding area. Familiarising yourself with your new environment can reduce feelings of disorientation and contribute to a sense of belonging.
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Self-Compassion: Transitioning to university life can be challenging, and it's normal to experience moments of uncertainty. Practice self-compassion and remember that everyone goes through an adjustment period. Be patient with yourself and seek support when needed.
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Healthy Habits: Prioritise your physical health by maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and engaging in regular exercise. Physical wellbeing and mental health are closely connected, so taking care of your body will have positive effects on your mind.
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Counselling and Support: If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or homesick, know that there are resources available to help. Leeds University offers counselling services and support networks that you can reach out to for guidance and assistance.
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Diversity and Inclusion
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Leeds University embraces diversity in all its forms, making it a vibrant and inclusive community. Freshers Week is an excellent opportunity to celebrate various cultures, backgrounds, and identities. Engage in events that promote diversity and engage with student groups that resonate with your values.
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Transitioning Beyond Freshers Week
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As Freshers Week comes to an end, reflect on the experiences you've had, the connections you've made, and the memories you've created. It's normal for the energy of the week to subside, and you might experience a mix of emotions. Remember that university life is a journey with its ups and downs, and seeking support and maintaining self-care practices will contribute to a fulfilling experience.
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Stay Engaged
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Join our community of Leeds University students who are dedicated to supporting each other's mental wellbeing. Share your Freshers Week stories, tips, and challenges on our forums. Together, we can navigate the exciting start of your university adventure while prioritizing mental health and wellbeing.