By: Nosagiegbon Igiede, Zuckerberg College of Health Sciences Well-being Leader
Hello everyone! For those of you who haven’t met me yet, my name is Sai Igiede, and I am a Well-being Leader for the Zuckerberg College of Health Sciences. My office hours are Mondays and Wednesdays from 1-3 pm in HSS 195! Today, I will be discussing a temperature check.
As a fellow Health Sciences major, I understand how our coursework can be hard. Whether it’s for Human Anatomy and Physiology, or Clinical Chemistry, I’m here to remind you that it’s okay to do mental checks. Here are a few things that help me stay well during the semester:
- Taking a 5-minute break from school
- This is important, especially when juggling heavy classes like Anatomy. Sometimes, taking a five minute breather and decompressing after studying not only helps you retain more knowledge, but it can also give you a better outlook on what you are studying.
- Making sure I give myself time to have fun
- Yes, everyone understands that we are here for a degree. However, it’s important to not rob yourself of some fun time. Whether that includes going to the gym or simply hanging out with friends, making sure you are treating yourself is very important for your overall well-being.
- Talking to friends and family
- Communication is key! Making sure you have a good support system, especially in college, is very important. Talking to someone about your week (both the good and bad) helps keep your mental health in check whilst also allowing you to catch up with the people around you.
- Getting proper rest and sleep
- Losing sleep to study isn’t an effective way to study, as it mainly leans to burn out. I always tell myself to never study past 11-11:30pm, and to simply sleep once it gets this late. Sometimes, over studying doesn’t help either, as it can lead to more stress and overall anxiety.
These suggestions may not work for you, and that is okay! Just know that if you are ever struggling mentally and/or physically, you can always reach out to the many different support systems that we have here at UMass Lowell.
Here are some of the resources we offer on campus:
- Counseling Services: Call the Wellness Center (978-934-6800) to book your first counseling appointment
- Wellness Center: Located on the 3rd floor of University Crossing
- Well-being Leaders: Book an appointment via Calendly (walk-ins are also accepted) https://www.uml.edu/wellbeing/well-being-leaders.aspx
- Mental Health Crisis Hotline: 855-890-2879
- And many more !!!
Remember, it is never too late to reach out for help!
Til next time,
Sai