Physical Health

Page written and resources collated by Miriam Grace and Mary McCabe, Senior Wellbeing Practitioners

Our physical health is important as it can help or hinder our ability to learn, socialise and participate in all the important parts of University life. It also links to our mental wellbeing.

Maintaining physical health includes:

• exercise
• getting enough sleep
• eating a healthy balanced diet
• drinking plenty of water
• safe use of alcohol
• using contraception
• avoiding drugs (including too much caffeine)
• maintaining vitamin D level by getting fresh air or taking a supplement.

It also includes managing new symptoms and ongoing physical conditions e.g. asthma, eczema and diabetes, with the help of the local chemist, GP and practice nurses. There are also national and local support forums/services for specific problems including diabetes, asthma, skin conditions etc.

Chronic Health and Invisible Illness

Are you managing a long term health condition alongside your studies and a social life?

Have you sometimes found it's not worth trying to explain your needs due to stigma or embarrassment? Or do you sometimes call yourself a pain, stupid, lazy, needy or dramatic? We have often found that in order for a student to access the support they are entitled to, they may first need support to identify their needs as important. Shame, stigma and upsetting history with chronic illness can prevent this, which is why Wellbeing Services work with Disabled Student Support to help students feel more confident about identifying their needs and accepting their condition.

Places to get help