The Martlet asked the UVic community for tips on mental wellbeing
Orielle Henriquez and Nathan Leonard.
Orielle Henriquez, third-year biochemistry student
“That’s [a question] that I’m still trying to figure out. We get so few sunny days in the winter that when they do arrive, I find myself really wanting to get as much free vitamin D as possible. With that being said, I also just take regular vitamin D [supplements]. People with darker complexions and skin don’t absorb as much vitamin D as if you’re fair, which a lot of people don’t know. It can become an issue when it’s all dark and cold.”
Nathan Leonard, third-year chemistry student
“Talk to your health professional, your family doctor. If you’re feeling really bad during the winter that’s probably a sign of something else as well. There is a lot less outside time. You arrive on campus when it’s dark and you leave when it’s dark. It’s like you’re in this sort of limbo.”
Robby B.
Robby B, fourth-year philosophy student
“Talk to other people about it. Connection is one of the best medicines for pain of any sort.”
Rosie Macewen.
Rosie Macewen, second-year psychology student
“Getting out of the house is a big one. Especially in first year when I was living in a dorm it was so easy to just be like, ‘Okay I’m going to go back to [my dorm] to have a sad nap because it’s dark outside.’ I think getting out is really nice — just broadening your space, a bit. You don’t have to study in [your] room. [You] can go study other places on campus … Go on a nice walk even if it’s yucky. Put on your rain suit.”
Kaia Getsios.
Kaia Getsios, second-year microbiology student
“I think that where we live, being outside is super accessible … [Find] the time to look outside or sit outside for a few minutes. It seems stupid, but I’m lucky enough to have the warm clothes that allow me to do that and [get] in touch with nature and [connect] with people. It’s my second year, and my first year I found it really hard moving away from home and adjusting to [living and being] on my own more. So [I connect] with my family whenever I can.”
Cricket Shavit.
Cricket Shavit, second-year English honours and philosophy student
“What helped for me is just knowing that whatever is there is not going to be permanent. It helps to stay warm — keep yourself warm. Go outside and appreciate what beauty is still there.”
