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Student Life

Six things you can do to relieve some stress

Next week is Mental Health Awareness Week at Algonquin College. From January 24th to January 28th, you will learn more about the resources and services available for the AC community. To kick off an important week of discussion about mental health and wellness, we have put together a list of our top tips for taking care of yourself and relieving some stress.

Keep moving

Exercise pumps up our endorphins. Even a 20-minute workout at home will make a difference. When we exercise we increase our sense of well-being. Keeping active also helps you sleep better, another stress-reduction tip. If you are not a big fan of online workout videos, consider other activities such as dancing and going for walks. Anything active will produce the feel-good substances our body needs to stay well.

Get some sleep

While we’ve mentioned sleep already, it’s an important stress-reducer, so deserves to be a tip of its own. When you are tired, your chances of feeling stressed are higher. A good night’s sleep helps you concentrate better and achieve more during the day.

Make some comfort food

Eating healthy is super important to creating balance in your life. BUT, we say every now and then you can choose to make your favourite comfort food to lift your spirits. Go ahead and pick a recipe you want to make this week that will bring that comfort to your heart and will make you smile!

Do something for yourself

It could be taking a bubble bath, learning a new hobby, reading a book, watching that next episode of your favourite show, or anything else that you enjoy. Make sure to take a break and do something for yourself this week.

Don’t forget to socialize

We cannot be physically close right now, but luckily the online world has plenty of options that will help you stay connected to your friends and family. Chat with friends and family on Zoom or watch a movie together on Netflix. “It is always better when we are together.”

Access our AC support services

We have so many people ready to help you, so don’t take on your stress alone. Services are currently available virtually. Seek support from Counselling Services, access resources and services from Health Services, get study help from the Student Learning Centre, Library, or Peer Tutoring, and feed your soul with the Spiritual Centre and Mamidosewin Centre.

We hope our tips will help you feel a little lighter and keep you steady and ready for the rest of the semester. Don’t forget to check out our activities during AC’s Mental Health Awareness Week, January 24-28.