The Effects of Depression on Academic Performance
I’ve already addressed what Depression looks like in a relationship.
Now I would like to talk about how it affects you as a student.
It impacts your ability to learn and you’re unable to perform as you normally would.
If you didn't quite figure out if you might be suffering from it as a student, the effects can be as follow:
- Low involvement in engagement activities
- Poor relationship with facilitators and peers
- Disinterest in pursuing hobbies and passions
- Uncertainty about your efforts and future
- Inability to recall or remember concepts that were taught
- Retention and interpretation difficulties
- Mental capacity is used to deal with your energy-draining symptoms
- Fatigue and unexplained pains
- Incapable of performing activities that require advanced motor and cognitive abilities
- Easily perplexed, distracted, and irritable
- Simple daily tasks are challenging
- Any pre-existing learning problems seem to be harder
Coping Tools
If you don't address your depression, the symptoms worsen which results in a vicious cycle.
So here are some coping tools you can follow that will help you fight it.
Avoid All-nighters
Sleep deprivation can worsen depression and make it harder for you to study.
You might think you’re socializing when in fact you’re just surrounding yourself with people.
You’ll be better off finding a study partner or group that will help you focus and stimulate your mental and social skills
Plan Ahead as Much as Possible
Make a plan for exams and group works and prep weeks in advance, so you can distribute small amounts of work for each day.
Also, use a planner to help you remember important tasks and deadlines.
Avoid Procrastination
You can never predict when things go south, so it’s important to do stuff on the days that you feel better.
This way you won’t beat yourself up on the days that you can barely function.
Talk With Your Teachers
Tell your teachers about your depression if you’re comfortable doing so.
As more experienced people, they might be more prompt to help you with your studies or even recommend professional help without looking disrespectful.
Prioritize Your Mental Health
Your mental health is more important than your grades.
If you need to drop a class or a course to protect your mental health, you’ll always have next semester.
Don’t Compare Yourself With Your Classmates
You are dealing with your responsibilities while battling a mental illness.
If you do so, you’re just adding more problems to the mixer. Give yourself some slack.
I seriously hope you don’t have to go through this, but if you are, know that there are people you love you and they can always find ways to help you.
And don’t be ashamed to look for professional help if it comes to it.
Inspired by a fellow creator, I decided to challenge myself to publish 100 short-form articles within January. This is article number 45.
