During Mental Health Awareness Week 2024, Queen’s Sport is excited to announce the relaunch of the Active Lifestyle Programme, dedicated to enhancing student mental health through physical activity. The Active Lifestyle Programme (Student Referral) commenced in December 2020, in collaboration with Queen’s Student Wellbeing Department. Originating as a 6-week physical activity initiative aimed at uplifting the mood and mental health of struggling students, the programme has now evolved into an 8-week initiative, integrating with the Queen’s Student Union’s Social Prescribing Programme. This expansion aims to reach a broader spectrum of students previously overlooked, fostering the development of a toolkit to bolster their mental and physical wellbeing.

Throughout the programme, an Exercise Referral Coordinator will provide personalized assistance to students during their 8-week journey. Participants can engage in a variety of interventions, including:

• Personalized Confidence Building Gym Sessions
• Group Exercise Classes
• Access to Sports Clubs and Societies
• Active Campus Initiatives such as the Couch to 5K Programme or Student Social Sport

Ciaran McMullan (Active Lifestyle Programme Coordinator) states, “Through the Active Lifestyle programme, our goal is not only to improve your physical and mental wellbeing but also to enrich your student experience at Queen’s. We are here to guide and support you in discovering activities or clubs that align with your current desires and needs.”

Teresa Reid (Participation Sport Development Officer) adds, “Aligned with Queen’s 2030 Strategy, we are committed to enhancing the student experience and preparing them for life beyond graduation. Collaborating with the Students’ Union and Wellbeing Services, we are thrilled to offer this programme, enabling students to develop a toolkit of coping mechanisms, primarily through physical activity. Research underscores that students engaged in physical activity exhibit greater resilience and coping abilities, essential for navigating academic and life challenges.”

Students interested in participating or seeking additional information can sign up by contacting Student Wellbeing Services or email the Active Lifestyle Team at activelifestyle@qub.ac.uk.

Student Feedback from Previous Participants on the Programme:

“The programme helped me discover new activities that I enjoy and can sustain beyond its duration... I've significantly improved my physical health and developed a more positive mindset towards it.”

“When feeling low, I now prioritize outdoor activities like running/exercising instead of isolating myself, both physically and digitally.”