Feeling a bit stressed or in need of a pick-me-up? Most people turn to alcohol or other substances when they are feeling like this in an attempt to change their mood. However, it's best to try and shift your mood in a more natural way such as boosting your endorphins!
Hannah Hockin & Nisha Bundhun
President & VP Wellbeing & Diversity
Feeling a bit stressed or in need of a pick-me-up?
Most people turn to alcohol or other substances when they are feeling like this in an attempt to change their mood. However, these substances can have negative long and short-term effects on your mental and physical health so it's best to try and shift your mood in a more natural way such as boosting your endorphins!
Endorphins are natural mood lifters that can turn your day around and leave you feeling energised and positive. Below are some examples of some simple and enjoyable ways to boost those endorphins and elevate your mood.
Hit the Pavement
Put on your favourite trainers and head outside for a walk, jog, or run. A bit of fresh air and physical activity is a fantastic way to release those feel-good endorphins. You don't have to run a marathon - just 20-30 minutes of moderate exercise can do wonders for your mood.
Dance Like Nobody's Watching
Put on your favourite playlist and have a dance party in your room! Dancing is not only a great form of exercise, but it's also a fun and expressive way to boost those endorphin levels. So, put on your favourite playlist and let loose.
Laugh It Out
Laughter truly is the best medicine. Watch a funny movie, TV show, or stand-up comedy special. Better yet, spend time with friends who know how to bring a smile to your face. Laughter releases endorphins and reduces stress, leaving you in a better mood.
Yoga and Mindful Movement
Engage in some yoga or mindful stretching. These practices not only improve flexibility and strength but also focus on the mind-body connection. Yoga can be a great way to relax and boost endorphins naturally.
Get Creative
Channel your inner artist! Whether it's drawing, painting, crafting, or playing a musical instrument, engaging in creative activities can be a fulfilling way to release endorphins. It's not about being perfect; it's about expressing yourself and enjoying the process.
Enjoy the Great Outdoors
Take advantage of nature's wonders. A hike, a picnic in the park, or reading a book surrounded by trees can provide a peaceful escape and help you connect with the environment. Being outdoors has been linked to increased feelings of happiness and wellbeing. So, why not get outside and embrace nature? You could walk to Virginia Water or just have a stroll around our beautiful campus.
Practice Random Acts of Kindness
Helping others and spreading kindness can give you a natural mood boost. Whether it's volunteering, helping a friend, or doing something unexpected for a stranger, the act of giving triggers positive feelings and releases endorphins! By doing this you're not only benefitting yourself but also others.
Savour the Moment
Engage in activities that bring you joy and fully immerse yourself in the present. Whether it's enjoying a delicious meal, reading a good book, or taking a long bath, savouring these moments can enhance your overall wellbeing.
Remember, it's essential to prioritise your mental and emotional health. Incorporating these natural endorphin-boosting activities into your routine can contribute to a more positive and balanced lifestyle. So, go ahead, give them a try, and let the good vibes flow!
Support
Remember, it's crucial to be aware of your choices and their potential impact on your health. If you or someone you know is struggling, reach out for support. Your wellbeing matters, and there are resources available to help you navigate these challenges.
Take care of yourself and each other!
University Support
Remember if you are worried about your own or a friend's drinking or substance habits, then please don’t hesitate to reach out to the University's Wellbeing team. They will be happy to discuss any alcohol and drug-related issues with you at any time to help you make informed choices, ask questions and seek support.
You can contact the Wellbeing team by emailing wellbeing@royalholloway.ac.uk.
Within the Wellbeing team, there is also the Student Counselling Service, which can help with drug and alcohol-related problems. They work in a non-judgmental way to help you achieve the goals you have set for yourself. Additionally, they do not normally inform anyone of any illegal activity they hear about through counselling. The only exception to this rule is when there is a clear and immediate risk to someone's life.
External support
SADAS (Surrey Alcohol and Drug Advisory Service) offers confidential counselling, befriending, advice and support groups and has an office in Staines. Ring 01483 590150 or email info@sadas.org.uk.
They also run The Engage Project (a street drugs agency providing accessible services for a wide range of drug and alcohol misusers, their families, carers or partners). For more information ring 01784 453512 or visit their website.
AA (Alcoholics Anonymous) - Ring their helpline on 0845 769 7555 or visit their website.
Alcohol Concern - Ring their helpline on 020 7264 0510 or visit their website.
NHS - For more information on alcohol support and drug support.
FRANK offers friendly, confidential advice on any subject related to drugs. Available in 120 languages, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Calls are free from landlines and some mobiles. You can talk to FRANK confidentially at 0800 77 66 00, by textphone (for the hard of hearing) 0800 917 8765 or by emailing frank@talktofrank.com. For further information visit their website.
Surrey Drug Care offers 24/7 confidential and non-judgmental help via phone at 01483 300112 or online.
Drinkaware - If you do decide you want to drink, Drinkaware has provided some easy steps to make sure your nights out don’t end badly. You can call their drink line, 03001231110, every weekday from 9am-8pm or weekends from 11am-4pm.
Rehab 4 Addiction is a free helpline run by people who've beaten alcohol and addiction themselves in London and the Southeast. This is a helpline set up by people who are themselves in recovery from drug and alcohol addiction. Check out their website or speak to them by calling 08001404690.