Ulster University is inviting all staff and students to mark University Mental Health Day, on 1st March 2018, by allowing themselves to ‘Take Thirty4U’, as part of the university’s emerging well-being strategy.
Working together, the People and Culture team, Student Support and Ulster University Students' Union have organised a range of activities on each campus with the aim of bringing staff and students together to improve our mental wellbeing.
The ‘Take Thirty 4 U’ campaign encourages you to take 30 minutes out of your day to take care of yourself and your mental health in a number of ways, to:
- Connect- start a conversation with someone new or chat to a friend
- Be Active- go for a walk or visit the gym
- Take Notice- pay attention to your environment, declutter your room
- Learn- look up a new word and use it; or try a new hobby!
- Give- your time to volunteer or do something for a friend.
On Thursday 1st March from 10:00am - 2:00pm, there will be information stands and displays on each campus for you to browse, letting you know all about the full range of activities and support available at Ulster University, helping you to maintain and improve your physical, mental and social well-being. These will be located in Belfast (front foyer), Coleraine (bridge area), Jordanstown (the Mall, outside Moka coffee shop) and Magee (SU foyer, MG ground floor).
Why not try some mindful colouring at the Belfast campus, enjoy the musicians on the Mall at Jordanstown, give Zumba a go at Coleraine or you can enjoy Laughter Yoga at Magee. The day’s programme continues into the evening with a screening of Inside Out at 7.30pm in The Hive, student accommodation in Coleraine, Jordanstown and Magee campuses.
With a packed programme of events planned for the day there is something for everyone.
Damian McAlister, Director of People and Culture, explained:
“As part of the University’s approach to staff and student well-being, we have been working with colleagues in Student Support and the Students’ Union, to encourage as many people as possible to get involved in this year’s University Mental Health Day by participating in the ‘Thirty 4 U’ campaign.
“I would wish to encourage everyone to avail of the opportunity to access the information concerning well-being in each of the 4 campuses and to enjoy a variety of activities which enable you to help maintain your physical, mental and social well-being. Please take time to take part.”
Keeping fit and taking part in a team activity benefits our mental well-being and resilience, so make the most of University Mental Health Day to connect with friends and colleagues to share ideas on how you can participate in the Mind Your Mood fundraising effort, perhaps by walking/relaying/running the Belfast City Marathon or supporting another local event. This is the ideal way to get fit by taking part in a team activity while raising funds to support Ulster University students’ mental well-being and at the same time, improve your own sense of well-being. Visit https://www.ulster.ac.uk/mindyourmood to get inspired!