Navigating Social Life & Self-Care in Your First Term at University

In our fast-paced world, especially in the heady, frenetic first weeks of University, socialising can often feel like a performance. We put our best foot forward, engage in fun activities, and meet new people. But in doing so, we can sometimes lose touch with our true feelings.

As students all over the country immerse themselves in ‘freshers’ week and beyond, this week's podcast episode dives deep into the performative nature of social interactions and the importance of reconnecting with our authentic selves.

Marianne, is our insightful guest for episode 81. Marianne highlights the challenge many of us face:

"There's a block between you and kind of what you're actually feeling."

It's easy to fall into autopilot mode, constantly being jolly and engaging in activities that, while enjoyable, may not align with our true needs. This disconnect can lead to emotional exhaustion and burnout.

The discussion emphasises the need for conscious effort in our social lives. Instead of waiting until we're completely drained, we should take proactive steps to check in with ourselves. Marianne aptly puts it,

"It's really important to have moments of reconnecting with what you actually want and need at a certain time."

This self-awareness is crucial, especially during intense periods like fresher’s week and the early weeks of a new academic year at university.

Another key point raised in the episode is the prevalence of burnout and illness during high-stress times. The infamous "Freshers Flu" is a testament to how our bodies react when we push ourselves too hard. By recognizing our limits and prioritizing self-care, we can prevent or at least reduce our risk of experiencing such physical and emotional tolls.

So, how can we strike a balance between socializing and self-care? The episode offers practical tips and insights to help students navigate this delicate dance. From setting boundaries to taking regular breaks, these strategies can help maintain our mental health while still enjoying social interactions.

Tune in to this enlightening episode to learn more about the importance of reconnecting with your true self and preventing burnout. Whether you're a social butterfly or someone who prefers quieter moments, there's something valuable in this discussion for everyone.

Listen to the full episode HERE