Supporting your health
Your health and wellbeing are an important part of your experience at Oxford. While support is always available if you need it, the University also places a strong emphasis on helping you stay well throughout your studies. This information should be read alongside our advice on who can help.
Bluebells at Wytham Woods. Copyright © OUImages / Elizabeth Lettmann
At Oxford, staying healthy isn’t about doing everything perfectly. We think it's about building habits, finding balance, and finding an approach that works for you - so you can fully engage with your studies and your wider experience.
You might like to explore our supportive resources and podcasts with practical advice for current students on staying well and managing their studies.
Building healthy routines
Life at Oxford can be busy, and your studies demanding, especially during term, so developing simple, sustainable routines can make a big difference. Managing your time and establishing a daily rhythm — balancing academic work with rest and social time — is an important part of adapting to the independence of university study. Making time for regular meals, sleep, and exercise helps you stay energised and focused.
Staying active
Physical activity is a great way to support both your physical and mental health. Whether you enjoy team sports, gym sessions, or more relaxed activities like walking or yoga, there are plenty of ways to stay active. College and University facilities make it easy to take part, whatever your experience level, and many activities are as much about meeting people as they are about fitness.
Your mental wellbeing
Looking after your mental health is just as important as your physical health. This might include finding ways to manage stress, taking breaks when you need them and recognising what helps you relax and recharge. For some, that might be spending time with friends, getting involved in a society or simply taking time out to rest.
Many aspects of Oxford life - from tutorials to living within a college community - encourage you to take an active role in managing your time and wellbeing, and to develop skills such as organisation, self-care, and resilience.
Eating well
Good nutrition plays an important role in your overall wellbeing. Whether you’re eating in hall, cooking for yourself, or picking up something between lectures, colleges, cafés, and shared kitchens offer a range of options to help you eat regularly and maintain a balanced diet. Taking time to eat properly — even during busy periods — can have a real impact on how you feel day to day.
Staying connected
A strong sense of connection can make a big difference to your wellbeing. Building friendships, staying in touch with people at home, and getting involved in college life or student societies can all help you feel more grounded and supported. Within your college, welfare staff, tutors, and peer supporters are part of your day-to-day environment, making it easier to access support if you need it.
Enjoying your environment
Oxford offers a unique environment to explore and enjoy. College gardens, libraries, and green spaces across the city provide opportunities to take a break, reflect, or simply get some fresh air. Taking time away from your desk can help you return to your work feeling more refreshed and focused.
Knowing your limits
It’s important to recognise when you need to slow down. Everyone adjusts at their own pace, and it’s okay if your experience doesn’t look the same as someone else’s. Giving yourself permission to rest and reset is an important part of staying well.
Support if you need it
While this page focuses on staying healthy, it’s important to know that support is always available if you need it — whether for physical health, mental wellbeing, or anything else affecting your time at Oxford.
