Studying can be a challenging endeavor under the best of circumstances, but when you are not feeling well, the pressure can feel even more overwhelming. Whether it is a common cold, fatigue, or something else. Being unwell while trying to keep up with your studies can lead to significant stress and frustration. Here’s a look at why this happens and some tips on how to manage the study stress when you are not at your best.
Understanding the strain:
When you are feeling rundown and ill, your body is already working hard to fight off whatever is ailing you. This means that your energy levels are depleted, your concentration will not be the same, and your ability to retain information can be compromised. The added pressure of deadlines, exams, or assignments can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and helplessness. Here are some factors that contribute to this stress:
1. Cognitive Load: Illness can affect your cognitive functions, making it harder to focus, process information, and recall what you have studied. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy, especially if you are used to performing well academically.
2. Fear of Falling Behind: The fear of missing out on important lessons or falling behind in your studies can create a sense of urgency that adds to your stress. You might find yourself comparing your progress to that of your peers, which can be disheartening.
3. Physical Discomfort: The physical symptoms of being unwell—like headaches, fatigue, make it difficult to concentrate on textbooks or lectures. This discomfort can create a cycle of stress and frustration.
4. Self-Expectations: Students often hold themselves to high standards. When illness interrupts your study routine, it can lead to feelings of guilt or disappointment in yourself, further compounding the stress.
Strategies for managing stress while studying:
Studying while feeling poorly is undoubtedly tough and I never recommend it, but some students feel they need something to focus on as it helps their stress levels - so if you really feel you need to do some light studying during this phase then there are some effective strategies you can employ to help manage your stress and make the most out of your situation:
1. Prioritise Rest: Your health should always come first. Allow yourself the time to rest and recover. A well-rested mind absorbs information better than an exhausted one.
2. Break It Down: If you must study, break your sessions into shorter, more manageable chunks. Instead of cramming for hours, aim for 25-30 minutes of focused study followed by a break. When I say break I mean a good break! This can help maintain your concentration without overwhelming you. You could even just read over your last couple of chapters instead of using energy to learn something new.
3. Use active learning: Engage with the material in different ways. Try summarising what you have learned, use colour on paper to bring what you are reading to life. These techniques can make studying more interactive and less taxing.
4. Set Realistic Goals: Adjust your study goals based on how you are feeling. It is okay to lower your expectations. Focus on completing essential tasks rather than trying to cover everything at once. This phase will pass.
5. Seek Support: Do not hesitate to reach out to your teachers or study groups for support. They can provide additional resources or help you catch up on what you have missed without adding to your stress.
6. Stay hydrated and nourished: Eating nutritious foods and drinking plenty of water can help your body heal. Avoid heavy or unhealthy snacks that may leave you feeling sluggish.
7. Practice Relaxation Techniques: Incorporate stress-relief practices like deep breathing, meditation, or gentle yoga into your routine. These can help calm your mind and reduce anxiety.
Conclusion
Studying while feeling unwell is a struggle many students face this time of year, but it is important to remember that your health and well-being always come first. By recognising the challenges and implementing strategies to cope with them, you can alleviate some of the stress associated with studying during illness.
Take it one step at a time, and know that it is okay to ask for help when you need it. You will come out stronger, ready to tackle your studies when you are back to feeling your best.
You need some time xx
Comments