Looking after your physical and mental health

Maintaining your health, fitness and looking after your mental health can make it easier to maintain a school/–life balance. We’ve included 10 tips to get you started. More information is available on the myQCE website; (https://myqce.qcaa.qld.edu.au/get-motivated/get-healthy-and-happy).

Top 10 tips for health and fitness

1. Stay active - Aim for 30–60 minutes of activity every day.

2. Mix it up- Try different exercises or activities that you enjoy, so you work different parts of your body and don’t get bored.

3. Hydrate- Drink lots of water throughout the day. It’s good for your body and your mind.

4. Eat well- Enjoy lots of fruit and vegetables, lean protein, whole grains, dairy and healthy fats. 5.

5. Eat regularly- Avoid skipping meals as it can impact your concentration.

6. Get your Zs in- Aim for eight hours sleep most nights. Try to get in a routine and avoid screen time directly before bed.

7. Stay safe- Whether you’re exercising or playing sport or learning to drive, you need to stay safe. Wear sunsafe and protective clothing if needed and pay attention to the road.

8. Avoid harmful substances- You know they’re bad for you and will impact on your health.

9. Get social- Take time to connect with friends and family.

10. Manage your mental health- Find ways for positive relaxation and to reduce stress.

 

Top 10 tips for looking after your mental health

1. Make time -Dedicate some time each day to doing something you enjoy.

2. Get active- Exercise makes your brain release feel-good endorphins.

3. Connect with others- Spending time with others can energise you and means there’s always someone to listen if you’re struggling.

4. Use stress-management- Use strategies like breathing exercises, meditation or creative outlets to boost your mood.

5. Set goals- Setting small goals and sticking to them can give you a boost.

6. Balance your schedule- Build some ‘me time’ into your study schedule.

7. Limit social media- Try to switch off from time to time. While social media has loads of positives, it can impact your mental health.

8. Manage academic pressure- Organise yourself and your workload and remember your grades don’t define you.

9. Be grateful- Look at all of the positives in your life and make a list of things you have to be grateful for.

10. Educate yourself- Learn about dealing with stress and anxiety, mental health conditions and symptoms, and when you may need to get support.

 

Ms Anne-Marie Gerlach, Head of Learning Senior College