University life has a unique set of challenges – and more and more students are seeking specialist support for their health and wellbeing.

Sport Canterbury’s Physical Activity team consists of specialists with experience in exercise prescription, personal training and motivation.

The team advocates for the value of sport and physical activity, and the benefits for physical and mental health. As part of this team, Roisin Ellis works with people of all ages who are new and returning to physical activity. In recent times, however, Roisin says a distinct need has increased in the uni environment, given the growing pressures and anxiety associated with student life.

Roisin and her colleagues deliver a core service known as Green Prescription, and they support medical practitioners to identify patients who will benefit from the one-on-one support to make sustainable lifestyle changes.

Roisin shares her thoughts on the start of the uni year, and introduces us to Ann, a student who needed help making her health and wellbeing a priority.

This year, for the first time ever, UC will offer Green Prescription consults on campus, the first university in New Zealand to make this move.

Roisin:

“Students often struggle with beginning a regular wellbeing routine after the holidays.

“Holiday periods often bring endless time to plan activities, access to healthier food choices while being at home and less stress due to having no projects or exams to worry about. On return, planning and sticking to a routine can be a challenge, especially with deadlines and the pressure to exceed.

“Well-meaning plans such as regular study breaks to refresh and reduce stress levels, prepare lunches and have breakfast, let alone plan time to do some exercise simply become unrealistic and study becomes a priority.

“Sport Canterbury’s Green Prescription service now offers one-hour consultations on campus at the medical centre to support students and staff to discuss and plan their health and wellness goals, the service provides follow up support to ensure they stay on track.

“The end goal is for students to have strategies to take care of their physical and mental wellbeing. This enables them to succeed in their chosen discipline, thanks to a balanced approach to study and health.”

Annette, UC Health Centre Nurse:

“Encouragement and changes can have a lifelong benefit, and it (university) is an environment where students are working, socialising and often living, so having someone right here in their own environment is, I believe, effective and a great asset for the future good of each person and the wider community.”

Anne, UC Student:

“It is easy to build good habits over the holiday period, however on returning to college, if you are unsure of your priorities, you may not make time for your health goals. The doctor at UC put through a referral for me to get some support with prioritising my health. Roisin asked me the right questions to get me thinking and to help me come up with a plan that fits into my life. After the consult, Roisin checked in with me to make sure I was on track. The support has helped me realise how important my health is to me and how to be intentional about what I want to do. Roisin has assisted me to approach my goals in a realistic way, they are no longer a daydream.”

For more information on Green Prescription and for services and classes near you follow Sport Canterbury on facebook -
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