Why is this important?
Working towards and achieving our goals has been the focus of Modules 1 to 3. But what if we encounter problems along the way? What if our negative thoughts stop us from progressing, or we experience real setbacks in our goal-striving? This module focuses on strategies and tools to maintain and improve our well-being. The tools are evidence-based, which means that for the majority of people they are helpful, if properly applied.
What's in this module?
1. WHAT ACTUALLY IS WELL-BEING?
The below video provides a brief introduction to well-being, with an important evidence-based message that you CAN improve your well-being!
In MORE you will find a video introduction to positive psychology, a new field in psychological science and practice, that is having a positive impact on the well-being of individual as well as work and educational organisations.
2. APPROACHES TO NEGATIVE THOUGHTS AND FEELINGS
This video suggests that we challenge thoughts that are not helpful to our well-being (but have become habitual).
This video presents a metaphor for creating a new relationship with our thoughts and emotions—to stop struggling with our thoughts and emotions, and to accept that they are a product of our defence-oriented brain.
When we stop struggling with our negative thoughts and emotions, we will be able to devote more energy to striving towards our valued goals. If you would like to find out more about this approach, see The Happiness Trap. Also see Mindi’s perspective on this issue in MORE, as well as another video about mindfulness.
3. DISCONNECT TO RECONNECT
When things go wrong or when you want company to celebrate your achievements, sometimes a virtual hug or a smiley face from your 500 Facebook friends just won’t cut it… Engaging (in person) with your friends and family helps meet the human need for relatedness, which is important for our social well-being.
Reflection
Introduction to positive psychology:
This video gives another perspective on how to relate to your negative thoughts and feelings.
Another video on mindfulness meditation, which has been shown to increase attention and decrease stress.
Check out this interactive presentation on Growing your Psychological Flexibility.
There is increasing evidence that what is good for the heart, is good for the brain/mind: enough sleep, healthy food, and physical exercise. So to increase your self-management capacity, return to the time-management tools in Module 1, and schedule time for these activities! And see the below video--if you do half of what they suggest in the first week, you are doing well!
UNSW Services
The Hub
The Hub is a welcoming space set up by Student Life and Learning for students to study, access support, and explore development opportunities.
The Learning Centre
The Learning Centre offers academic support services to students UNSW such as adjusting to academic culture, new approaches to learning, and a range of learning and language assistance programs.
Counselling and Psychological Services [CAPS]
CAPS provides a free and confidential service to all students enrolled at UNSW. CAPS sometimes holds mindfulness meditation workshops—check their website.
Other Services
For other services for students visit the University Student Success, Resilience and Well-being website