Mental health is something we should all take seriously. According to the World Health Organization, mental health is defined as the foundation for well-being and effective functioning of individuals. It is more than the absence of a mental disorder; it is the ability to think, learn, and understand one’s emotions and the reactions of others. Mental health is a state of balance, both within and with the environment. Physical, psychological, social, cultural, spiritual, and other interrelated factors participate in producing this balance. There are inseparable links between mental and physical. 

A study conducted by Deloitte showed that 46% of Gen Z are burnt out. We are born into the generation of digital natives and are shown every single day through social media that we need to work harder to achieve our goals and objectives. However, we need to keep in mind that our emotional and physical well-being are also as important as our education and study.

In 2020, a research by Vietnam National University about Gen Z struggling with mental health: lonely, stressed and depressed, recalled a 12-year-old girl battling depression and school stress. She had haunting memories of homework, sleepless nights, headache and dizziness. Students are often urged to work extra and encouraged to take additional classes outside of school. For the longest time, our Vietnamese education system has placed emphasis on grades and test performance. Forcing us to spend hours and hours by ourselves cramming knowledge and revising questions in the four walls of our room. Too often that I hear parents refusing to let their child play sports because they need to “study”. 

When you spend so much time by yourself cramming knowledge into your head, even the smallest issue can stress you out. With no one to talk to and share your hardships, you might end up in a very unhealthy state of mental-wellbeing.

Here are ways a co-study space can enhance your mental health and study experience:

Reduces stress level

It is no doubt that studying is stressful, however, taking your studies elsewhere, to a co-study space can reduce your stress level. Studies have shown that isolation tends to worsen educational stress and mental health issues.  When you join a co-study space and surround yourself with other students, you connect with other people and relax your mind. Co-study spaces help you create a study-life balance by being able to get your work done while building relationships with others.

Additionally, being surrounded by other people who are also studying and working hard can lower your stress level, understanding that you are not alone. You will in turn be motivated!

At Stucolab, we have two main areas: do not disturb and socializing-scene. When you’re in your grind mode and want to sit in a quiet space, we’ve got you covered upstairs. However, when you need a short break, grab a cup of tea downstairs and get to know someone new!

Make friends and study in groups

Make studying more fun with a group of friends!

Although the people you share the space with don’t attend the same school, being in a co-study space will give you the opportunity to create a network of like-minded students and form groups to study together. Did you know that making friends and taking initiatives can help increase your self-esteem? Which in turn improves your mental health. (Read more here).

Studies have consistently shown that forming study groups and learning together increases productivity and reduces procrastination. You have a community of people keeping you accountable for your work and being in a group setting also aids communication skills. 

At Stucolab, we’ve got all sorts of tools to make studying together more fun, from writing on boards, tables, icebreaker games, to projectors. Grab your group of peers and hop over to Stucolab for some special FRIENDly discounts!!

What are you waiting for? Pop by Stucolab at No. 24 Alley 575 Kim Ma to give co-study a try!