We still need to talk about mental health in academia.

There are several cases from students and professors with depression, anxiety, sleep issues, panic attacks, among others.

It is very common to hear colleagues in the department talking about publications and how many papers were accepted but what can sound as a celebration can also be seen as a fierce competition.

For Phd students and young researches there is also the pressure for producing the thesis, write papers, do research, going to conferences,do network, get extra funding… there are the ones that can do all these and even teach in their daily routine and there are others that struggle with those.

There is even a lack of support from supervisors and mentors, who are too busy doing their own research.

The worst part is that in conferences where PhD students from several countries get together to talk, the stress is a common issue for all and the pressure for publication and excellence. It does not matter the country or university they are from.

The universities still need to give more support for young researchers. I know some offer yoga classes, stress management classes and other actions, but inside the departments there are few initiatives.

I know this is a current topic but there is still a need to talk about it.

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