10 Essential Items Every Freshman Needs for a Mentally Healthy First Year at University

Welcome to one of the most exciting and challenging chapters of your life! As a freshman embarking on this university journey, it's crucial to equip yourself not just with textbooks and stationery but also with items essential for nurturing your mental health. Whether you are a first-year student or a concerned parent, ensuring you have the right tools for emotional well-being can make all the difference. So, here are ten must-have items to support your mental health through your first year at university:

1. Comforting Photos and Mementos

It can be difficult moving away from home for the first time, and although it can be extremely exciting and liberating, initially the change can be a real struggle, especially if you already struggle or are susceptible to anxiety disorders.

Keep a collage of comforting photos, postcards, or trinkets from home to create a familiar and comforting space in your new dorm room.

These reminders can act as an anchor for you in times when you feel particularly homesick, having a reminder that you have a team of support behind you regardless of where you are can ease stress.

Maybe you could customise a space with thoughtful photos, making your new room, just that. Yours.

2. Coloring Books or Stress-Relief Toys

Although university can be exceptionally fun it can also be incredibly stressful and the workload at times can seem overwhelming. There may be times when you feel like you absolutely can not stop working, to hit deadlines and it's this time exactly where self-care is so important. Adult colouring books, brain games and self-relief activities can be that 10 minutes you just need to recharge and give your brain a little break.

3. Essential Oils or Aromatherapy Diffuser

This little trick doesn't take any time out of your day and just works away in the background creating a calming and soothing atmosphere (without setting off the fire alarm)!

Most diffusers now are inexpensive and can be plugged in or charged.

Essential oils or an aromatherapy diffuser promote relaxation and focus, two very important things you'll need during uni (trust me).

4. Journal or Planner

Journals are essential during university, it's one thing that saved my mental health in a period that seemed so dark. While meeting new people and making new friends a journal is somewhere you can turn that is completely private and secure. With all these new experiences, a journal is a place where you can explore those changes and keep your mental health in check at the same time.

This is where Discovery Journal shines as it's purposefully dedicated to helping discover triggers or anxiety, which believe me can rear their ugly heads during such a transformative time.

Proven to increase mental stability these journals are a sanctuary for students.

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5. Headphones

Invest in a good pair of headphones to enjoy music, podcasts, or white noise for relaxation and concentration.

Music, podcasts and audiobooks can take you away from the chaos that university can feel like sometimes, so it's worth getting a decent pair that will move through the next 3+ years with you, so there is never a panic about replacing a cheapy pair.

6. Workout Gear

It's very easy to start unhealthy habits when you get to university.

Packing your workout gear or investing in a new set will inspire you to keep up any current workouts or start a new routine once you arrive and get settled.

One tip is not to just rush into joining a gym when you get there, cause the chances are you won't go, especially if you are still figuring out your new routine and workload. Instead, think about a sport, club or class you really enjoy or a skill you want to learn then you will be more motivated to go.

7. Healthy Snacks

The university is full of corner shops and "express" stop-ins, usually with elevated prices, as they are built for convenience rather than health. It can be very tempting after a long day to stop in and just pick something up, but that soon becomes a habit. If you can, invest in some healthy snacks from reputable suppliers online or schedule a weekly shop (maybe with your roommates) this will motivate you to meal plan and save the pennies.

8. Books or E-Reader

Escape the chaos and immerse yourself in a good book or e-reader to relax and unwind before bedtime. Yes, books relax you and help you get to sleep after a long day, but they are also escapism, freedom and joy.

I never read before I got to university, I just wasn't a book reader, but I found a love for them during that period of my life and they did help me during difficult times.

9. Emergency Kit with Self-Care Items

Prepare an emergency self-care kit with items like stress balls, soothing tea, your favourite chocolate, and a comforting blanket for moments when you need extra care.

Having a little stash of all your favourite things; things that have proven to make you feel better in the past can be a real comfort, even if you don't get it out.

Kind of like a journal, this is something you can turn to when you need it, but there is a safety net just knowing it's there for you.

In the whirlwind of university, it's easy to neglect your mental health amidst academic demands and social pressures. However, by prioritizing these ten essential items, you're setting yourself up for a mentally healthy and fulfilling first year at university.

Remember, taking care of your mental well-being is just as important as your academic success. So, be proactive, be prepared, and above all, be kind to yourself as you embark on this new adventure!

Here's to a successful and mentally healthy year ahead!