Taking care of yourself over the festive period
As the winter break begins, things on campus can feel quieter and, for some students, a bit different from usual. Whether you’re heading home, staying in Liverpool, or doing a bit of both, this is a time to slow down where you can and take care of yourself.
Today's blog is here to offer reassurance, highlight support, and help you look ahead to the new year.
Rest looks different for everyone
There’s often an unspoken pressure to “use the break wisely”, especially with exams coming up in January. It’s okay if rest for you means switching off completely. It’s also okay if you need some structure to feel settled.
You might find it helpful to:
- keep a gentle daily routine
- make space for sleep and downtime
- stay connected with people who matter to you
- do things that help you feel grounded, even in small ways
There’s no single right way to spend the break. Listening to what you need matters most.
If you’re staying in Liverpool
If you’re remaining in your University accommodation or student home over Christmas, you’re not on your own. Support is still available, even though some services are operating differently.
Rather than listing everything here, we recommend reading the University’s main update for practical information about:
- staying in Halls
- who’s available on campus
- festive activities and city events
- changes to opening hours
👉 Read: Staying at University over the Christmas break
That page is the best place to check details if you’re planning ahead or need specific information.
Looking after your wellbeing
The festive period can bring mixed emotions. You might feel relaxed, homesick, relieved, lonely — or a combination of all of these. However you’re feeling, it’s valid.
If you’re looking for ideas to support your wellbeing over the break, Student Minds has shared simple, student-friendly suggestions such as:
- creating a routine that works for you
- staying active in ways that feel manageable
- exploring volunteering if you want connection or purpose
Sometimes small actions can help you feel a bit more steady, especially when your usual routines change.
Support is still available
Even during the University closure period, you can still reach out for support if things feel difficult.
If you need urgent mental health support while you’re in the Liverpool area, help is available through local NHS and crisis services. You can also access Health Assured, a free, confidential support line available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, including Christmas Day.
You don’t need to wait until things feel overwhelming to ask for help — support is there if you need to talk.
Thinking ahead to January exams
If you have exams coming up in the new year, it’s understandable if they’re already on your mind. The break doesn’t have to be about intensive revision.
You might find it helpful to:
- gently plan when you’ll start revising again
- check key exam dates and formats
- think about what support could help you feel prepared
Balancing rest with light planning can make returning in January feel a little less daunting.
A final word
However you spend the Christmas break, you deserve time to rest and feel supported. Student Services will be here when the University reopens, ready to support your wellbeing, studies and next steps.
Take care of yourself.