Tertiary institution advises matrics to practice self-care amidst Covid-19 pandemic

THE Matric Class of 2020 have to go beyond what Grade 12 learners had to do traditionally as they take the next step of their lives. 

Under the spotlight of Covid-19, student relations manager at The IIE’s Varsity College Westville, Zanele Ntombela advised the Class of 2020 to focus on the things that are within their control.

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“One of these is self-care – crucial to their physical, psychological and emotional well-being,” said Ntombela.

Adhering to the Covid-19 protocols, Ntombela said taking immune system boosting vitamins and supplements, eating healthy and exercising in a safe space should take care of their physical well-being.

The more challenging components of well-being may be, for many young adults, psychological and emotional.

“The pressure of having to charter new waters and navigate a new course post Grade 12 may be, understandably, very overwhelming at times. And Covid-19 is not making it any easier,” said Ntombela.

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“Although these young adults can’t control what is happening, they can control how they respond to it – and one of these responses is to focus on best self-care,” she added.

To assist students, Ntombela shared the following tips:

How to increase mental energy naturally: One of the most effective ways to do this is to control stress levels by talking to someone about what is causing the stress – be it a friend, relative or a professional.  Streamline the essential activities and prioritise what is important and what is not.  Eat for energy – low GI foods translate to energy whereas high carbohydrate foods cause sluggishness. Drink lots of water and limit smoking, alcohol and caffeine.

How to sleep better: Sleeping well can promote better eating, more effective exercising and, in general, better health.  What could improve sleep? Get enough sunlight every day and less blue light (electronic device) exposure at night by, among other things, limiting your exposure to social media and Netflix. Sunlight generates energy. Blue light tricks the brain into thinking that it is still daytime. Following a regular sleep routine should make it easier to fall asleep and will result in more restful sleep in the long term. You may consider taking a nap if you experience fatigue or plan to include naps in your daily routine. Avoid napping for more than 30 minutes.

How to adjust to a new environment: Adapting to a new environment, be it tangible or not, can be challenging especially for young adults. An effective strategy is to get as much credible and accurate information (in other words explore!) about this new environment as possible – visit websites, phone the organisation and access printed material. In the process of finding the information, introduce yourself, be polite to everyone and get names and designations of the person you are speaking to – these may put you at an advantage at a later stage. Be attentive and embrace every opportunity to connect – even if via technology – as it is still a connection.  Ask questions as learning more about your new environment can also put you at ease.