There are many ways to foster and maintain good mental health. Research consistently points to five ways that can help promote a healthy mind. We call these the Thrive 5, and they are simple, easy-to-implement ways to help support your mental health.
The Thrive 5 Are:
And while these are oft-cited ways to learn to thrive, they are not the only ways. That's why we encourage you to think about the Thrive 5+. Read more about it below and check out the Thrive Events Calendar for activities happening across campus based on the Thrive 5 and more!
Thrive by Moving More Move
Adding activity to each day can help you manage stress and can boost your mood.
Thrive by Eating Well Eating
Eating a balanced diet can help fuel your body and mind; many studies have shown a link between a healthy diet and reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression.
During stressful or challenging times, it can be particularly difficult to try and eat well, but fueling your body with nutritious foods can help you eat your way to better mental health.
Thrive by Giving Back Give
Helping others adds to your sense of purpose, connection, and wellbeing. Explore ways to let people know you care and give back in your community.
Thrive Events
Thrive by Saying Hi! hi
Spending time with family, friends, and community can reduce stress and provide a sense of belonging.
What is the Thrive 5+?
Mental health is diverse–and so are ways to support it. While the Thrive 5 are some of the most oft-cited ways to foster and maintain mental health, they are not the only ways. Mental health is different for everyone—and so are the ways to support it. Thrive 5+ acknowledges that what works to support some people, may not work for everyone. It is important to discover the things that help you build resiliency and cope during challenging times — whatever they may be.
For some it might be engaging in arts, culture or music, for others, meditation, or connecting with spirituality— whether that be through religion, meditation, or practicing mindfulness—might help. Many people find being in nature restorative and relaxing, while others practice gratitude. Engaging in cultural tradition can also be a great source of mental health support.
Whatever your path to mental health may look like, we hope that you will explore ways to support it at UBC—during Thrive month and beyond!
For a Thrive 5 poster that you can share with students, faculty or staff, click below:
