Back to School Scaries: How to Make A Student House Feel like Home Again

BeWellAdmin
5 days ago
2 min read

Coming back to your student house after the summer comes with a lot of emotions. The unique mix of anxiety and excitement can be confusing – you’re in a space that is simultaneously familiar and yet still foreign. During this time, starting school, catching up with friends, and getting your bearings again feels like a priority, and often, your space gets neglected.

However, research shows that the way we set up and interact with our space can influence mood, focus, and even how well we cope with stress. Starting off the semester being more intentional with your space can set you up for the rest of the semester – here are a few ways to make that happen:

1. Clearing Clutter: Cluttered environments can lead to higher stress and a more cluttered mind. Moving back in might be the perfect time for a reset, clearing out items that no longer serve you, and making space for the things that do.

2. Turning Physical Comfort into Mental Comfort: Feeling better in a “cozy” space isn’t just a coincidence. Creating an environment that is cozy to you (adding pillows, blankets, etc) actually signals safety to your brain, decreasing anxiety.

3. Lighting for Better Mood: Lighting plays a big role in how we feel and function on a daily basis. Exposure to natural light boosts your mood and supports in regulating your circadian rhythm. If your room doesn’t get much sunlight, add a warm lamp or string lights — softer lighting cues your body to relax in the evenings.

4. Bringing Nature Indoors: Being a plant parent while at school can sometimes be tricky, but adding greenery to your room can reduce stress and boost your overall wellbeing. Some student-friendly options include succulents or the occasional bouquet of flowers.

As student, budgets can keep us from creating a space that supports us.

Here are a few budget friendly options to liven up your space:

Thrifting: Local thrift stores often have affordable rugs, lamps, frames, and other small tidbits than can help your space feel a bit more like home.
Facebook Marketplace or Buy & Sell Groups: Great for picking up second-hand furniture and storage at lower prices.
DIY Projects: Printing out photos of your family or friends to add to your thrifted frames can be very low cost!

Coming back to school can be overwhelming, but creating a space that serves you can be a step in the right direction to setting yourself up for success.

If you are still struggling with the transition back to university, there are several student wellness resources here to support you! Don’t hesitate to access Mental Health Therapy if you need someone to talk through the transition with, or come out to the PHE Run Club if you’re feeling a bit lonely and looking to boost your mood with fitness & community all at once!

See you back in Kingston!

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