On mental health in academe (or practice self-care this Winter). Academics often struggle with mental health issues. For many, depression & anxiety seem to go hand in glove with the creativity & obsessiveness demanded by intellectual work. As tenure demands have grown, we have created an academy that leaves little room for family and even less room for self-care. And tenure demands seem to compound non-academic triggers of depression & anxiety - be it bad weather, divorce, or broader political events. As a result, we see many of our colleagues suffer. I have one friend who loses five pounds every time a paper is rejected. I have another who self-medicated to manage the pressure of tenure. I know another who left academe - after snapping bc the uncertainty of tenure compounded a health condition. I know these issues well because, as an early career faculty member, I struggled with anxiety & depression - I was never good enough! - & often thought about leaving academe - even after tenure. For me and many others, the Winter is tough; the pressure of work and the lack of sun can be a recipe for disaster. So what to do? First, take time for yourself. If work becomes too much, step away. A colleague recently told me about taking a leave bc work became too much. They took the time away to get their head straight and restructure their work. That colleague is a lot happier today. Second, talk out your challenges with a friend or a professional. Talk therapy works. Friends are helpful but take care not to lean too hard. Often, a good professional can help you sort through things more quickly. Third, think carefully to whom you disclose issues. A sad fact of academic life is that while claiming to be open-minded about mental health care, not all of your colleagues or employers will understand. There is nothing to be embarrassed about struggling & getting help. But, you don’t need to share your challenges with your academic community. Not unless you are doing so to make a point (note disclosure above). Fourth, know your benefits. Many universities offer excellent mental healthcare benefits. Many faculty fail to use them. Fifth, know your context. This post is from a tenured professor in the United States. I’ve had my last promotion. I can speak out safely on these issues. That is not true for faculty in many countries - esp. early career faculty. So if you are struggling, take a moment to ensure the path you chart fits your context. For me, the lessons of friendship, discretion, and context were hard to learn. However, I have no regrets about learning to practice self-care in the Winter. I am happier in my life, more productive at work, & a better parent. Best of luck. #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #balance #depression #anxiety #academiclife #mentoring
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