The demanding schedule of postgraduate study can be both intellectually enriching and incredibly challenging. While it’s common knowledge that university studies can be very stressful, the demands of the experience may take students by surprise when they are in the process. There are many ways to reduce or prevent stress and boost your mental health, particularly during busy periods like exam season.

The following tips may help to boost your mental health during your postgraduate studies and help you to relax and enjoy your year of study to the best of your ability.

^{Student Disability & Wellbeing Services at Queen's}

Regular exercise

You may have heard this one before and perhaps have your doubts. How can going to the gym help to prevent stress as a result of university studies? And while working out regularly will not solve all your problems, I've found personally that it is a lifesaver at boosting my mood and reducing stress levels.  And you don’t have to commit to huge amounts of exercise to notice a change in your serotonin levels, even a short brisk walk can do the trick and help you cope with your stress slightly better.

^{Regular exercise can help you to destress}

Lower alcohol consumption

A huge part of the university lifestyle for many students is regular partying, which often includes drinking alcohol. While there is nothing wrong with a low level of drinking, some people may react poorly to it and find it leads to problems such as higher stress levels. If you find that alcohol consumption is a trigger of stress for you, it may be worth reducing your alcohol consumption. This doesn't necessarily mean cutting it out altogether, but simply avoiding binge drinking and knowing your limits. Your body will thank you for it the next morning you have a 9am class!

^{Drinking culture not your scene? There's plenty more to do in Belfast!}

Relaxing music

The next tip is something I have been doing for years to wind down, and it's simply listening to some chilled-out, relaxing music. It doesn't have to fit your classic description of relaxing music (think, white noise). It can be whatever relaxes your mind. This could be any genre.

Consider listening to or making your playlist on Spotify, Apple Music, or another music site. I have linked a couple of playlists below that may help you relax.

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2JRWN1Uy5O7ZKnaAHenQy8?si=aebe9f64a17d47ca

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/37i9dQZF1DX4WYpdgoIcn6?si=797fc75c6de34b3f

Spending time with friends

Spending time with friends is a great way to destress from university life, whether you’re meeting up with friends old or new.  It doesn’t necessarily have to involve partying or spending lots of money, it can be something simple such as going for a walk or going to your favourite coffee shop. When you’re going through a difficult or stressful time, having a good support system by your side can make all the difference to your mood and anxiety levels.

Friends are there to support you, and spending time with them in between your studies can do wonders for your mood.

^{Take a wellbeing walk with friends!}

All these tips can provide great comfort and improve your year of postgraduate studies by successfully reducing stress. However, if you're feeling particularly low or anxious, it may be a good idea to talk to someone about how you are feeling. Student Support in One Elmwood is more than happy to help discuss your stresses. They are there to "give you free, confidential, specialist advice and support on a range of academic and non-academic issues. The advice we provide is completely impartial and independent of the University.” (Queen’s Students' Union, 2023).

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Rosa Hasson  MSc Marketing student | Postgraduate Student | Northern Ireland My name is Rosa Hasson, I’m currently a MSC Marketing student at QUB. I graduated with a BA Hons in Journalism in 2022, and since then I have definitely kept my love of writing and content creation alive through my internships, university work and freelance writing. When I’m not working or studying I love listening to new music, trying new coffee places or getting inspiration for any upcoming city breaks!