by Seham Al Amshan and Paula Fischer-Fodor
Students are finding it hard to juggle education, a job and their free time during these difficult times, and not being able to take time away from real life has started to affect their mental wellbeing.
“I hang out with friends, and I pursue my hobby which is dancing. Dancing helps me escape the pressure of this whole crisis we’re in,” said Tom Han, 21, barista at Tea Stall on Holloway Road, who is also a student at University College London.
Many students are struggling to make ends meet in times of rocketing inflation, and uncertainty about the war in Ukraine, the effects of Brexit and if well-paying jobs will be available in future is having an effect. A lot of young people despair about ever being able to get on the property ladder, and some are worrying about whether it’s fair to start families in this economy.
Many people opt to escape the doom and gloom by spending time with their loved ones. Taking part in physical activities such as dancing or yoga has also proven to help not just their mental but also their physical wellbeing. These hobbies help people keep a routine when their schedule is filled up with studying and work.
In fact, according to a Dance4Life program survey, the majority of respondents agreed that taking the dance program helped them improve their well-being and energy.
The need to be around loved ones grows with economic uncertainty
“Hanging out with my friends and talking to my family is a stress-reliever for me,” said Pratibha Saroy, 25, International Business Management student at London Metropolitan University.
The living crunch is causing an imbalance in young people’s social lives. Due to inflation, going out with friends at social venues such as pubs decreased dramatically. According to The Guardian, many pubs and restaurants have increased their prices significantly since 2020. As a result of this, people choose to stay at home and enjoy TV entertainment.
“I take to hobbies such as listening to music or watching sports or movies,” said Charlie, 32, barista at Dreamz Café on Holloway Road, who is also a student at London Metropolitan University and didn’t want to give his surname.
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