Blog Posts in Category: Mental Health
After our first week of classes I think it is safe to say that some of us are overwhelmed by our class schedules, afraid of future homework and project loads and are already stressing for the exams that span our whole semester. Instead of making yourself crazy, engage in some of these stress reducing behaviors. 1. Get some Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzz's: College students are notorious for staying up all night "cramming" and then waking up for class four hours later. In order to function properly, it is best... Read More
The physical benefits of exercise are commonly known, such as weight control, cardiovascular fitness and muscular endurance. However, studies show that although exercise is a physical activity, it has an effect on our mental state as well. A study conducted at the University of Haifa International School found that exercise reduces depression and burnout rates. The study analyzed 1,632 Israeli workers through questionnaires and follow up appointments over the course of nine years. The... Read More
The World Health Organization defines health as “physical, mental, and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity”. Too often, this holistic view is forgotten. The interdependence of all aspects of health is important when creating wellness programs. Manadnock Family Services, a non-profit, comprehensive, community mental health service in Peterborough, NH, recognizes the important connection between physical and mental health through their In SHAPE program. Launched... Read More
For those of you who have felt bullied, witnessed bullying, or are a bully yourself, what makes a target for such torment? It is frequently believed that bullying causes depression in those being persecuted, which many times it does, but does being depressed also make you a target for being bullied? A recent study discussed in Time Magazine, “The Relationship Between Bullying and Depression: Its Complicated” states that “children’s depressive symptoms in elementary school precede social... Read More
For many years of my life, I have been taught that taking a nap during the day would cause negative effects on my ability to fall asleep later in the evening. However, I recently found an article on WebMD that counteracts this long time assumption and negative connotation that has been applied to the word “nap.” Many people, like myself, tend to feel their energy levels fall when two or three o’clock rolls around. Instead of reaching for that not so nutritious energy drink to send you from... Read More
Is one of your New Year’s resolutions to study better? Or do better in classes? How can you do this? One way is to study smarter! According to an article in the Huffington Post, it is recommended that students take mental breaks approximately every 45 minutes. This is due to the fact that the brain is only able to maintain true focus for around 45 minutes before it begins to lose steam. Therefore it would be wise practice to study diligently for up to an hour and then take a break. Breaks... Read More
When many teenagers first turn on their computers, the first thing they check is Facebook and other social media sites. Now, how much is too much? Researchers have been tracking nearly 1,000 teenagers and the effects of internet use. They have found that the more time online, leads to a greater increase for depression. A post on U.S. News reads, “Teenagers who have an unhealthy dependence on the internet are almost twice as likely to become depressed as other teens, giving parents yet... Read More
Recently I have noticed a campus-wide discussion examining the pros and cons of the sale of energy drinks on campus, specifically Red Bull. Why is it that students are so passionate about having energy drinks on campus? What are effects to the human body from energy drinks? So do energy drinks like Red Bull really have a positive effect on the brain or could students survive with out it? The ingredients in Red Bull include caffeine which stimulates mental functions such as alertness,... Read More
With the constant stress of school, work, or other day-to-day events, a majority of people have a hard time shutting off their brain to get some shut eye. During finals week or feeling completely overwhelmed with other commitments, I find myself not receiving enough of sleep due my racing mind standing in the way. However, an article recently published in Women’s Health, explores some remedies to calm our nerves during one of the most important times of day. Some of the solutions were ones I... Read More
The great outdoors, something that UNH has plenty of. Living on a college campus with lots of green space was a major selling point for me. It not only gave the campus a beautiful look, but it also calmed me. Going to school in Boston my freshman year was quite stressful at times. I would study for exams, quizzes and create presentations, THEN go outside for some relaxation and immediately be bombarded by honking horns, speeding cars, people going here, there and everywhere. It was a lot for... Read More