Discover what we have planned between 3 and 7 November.
This piece has been written by our Deputy President, Andrew Wilson.
Whether you are a student studying an access course, an undergraduate degree, or a postgraduate masters or PhD research, we must all remember that when studying in a remote environment, whether internationally or locally, we are bound to find challenges and stresses in life that will throw us off course.
Recognising the stress is only one part of the puzzle, and changing the mindset from the overwhelming objective of one’s studies to looking at small victories enables one to move forward one step at a time.
Despite that being the case, as a member of the Student Leadership Team, I have found that working alone and not maintaining good relationships has been a clear struggle as I personally miss not having a personal, physical and dynamic engagement with the rest of the team, compared to the virtual and asynchronous relationship with both our team members and staff at Open SU. This is not a criticism but rather it is an important element of reminding ourselves that we are all human, and we face our challenges and stresses in various ways.
Regardless of this being a challenge, it is also a challenge in terms of studying. As a parent to two amazing and beautiful girls, and going through some medical problems, it feels at times one is alone trying to establish one’s self and identity, not knowing whether the actions and/or decisions can help change the outcome of the student cohort, or enable future students to succeed at the University.
One of my responsibilities is focusing on wellbeing-themed weeks, and this includes International Stress Awareness Week, taking place from 3–7 November.
As the week begins, Charon (Faculty Rep for WELS) and I, together with Sue Spurr from the OU, will be holding a yoga session on Monday, 3 November where you can learn to destress yourself through movement, whether in a chair or standing, and I hope that this will be beneficial for you.
Take part in our online yoga class on 3 November
There will also be an event on Thursday, 6 November, dedicated to destressing yourself.
Join the 'How to destress one's self' session on 6 November
Jessica Hannington, our VP Student Welfare, has also written a piece on International Stress Awareness Week where you can find a host of relevant links and resources available.
Please, whilst you are studying with us at The Open University, take good care with your wellbeing, and remember that there are support groups, such as the Disabled Students Group, who are there to support you and signpost you to the respective areas you could benefit from.
Also, if you haven’t already, please search via the Apple Store or Google Play for the OU Wellbeing app.