This article’s message is worth amplifying. Many #phdstudents struggle in silence. They become #faculty who struggle in silence. We struggle in silence because so much of what we do is reputation based & worry about the #stigma attached to #mentalhealth issues & it’s impact on our careers. We struggle because of the tremendous pressure to produce #papers & #ideas - because the #jobmarket demands it - so we don’t take time for self-care. We struggle bc we work in hierarchies, where it is very difficult to say no to demanding #advisors, leaving some feeling helpless & without hope. Ironically, we struggle despite access to mental health care, progressive human resource policies, & long breaks between semesters. There are many reasons we struggle, all of them legitimate. I know, because I struggled as a #phd student, & if I’m not careful, I do as a faculty member. It doesn’t have to be that way. You can be happy. Here are tips that I find helpful for managing my #stress and finding #happiness in academic life. First, recognize your value. You are part of an elite group. You have opted to pursue a challenging goal. Very few people have the fortitude to chase a PhD. When times feel tough, don’t forget that you are special, trust me it helps. Second, practice self-forgiveness. Everyone makes mistakes. Learn from mistakes and let them go. If you don’t practice this skill, you are at risk of spiraling - and it can be hard to overcome a negative spiral. Third, identify resources and use them. Every uni has a counseling center and academic support centers. Sometimes mental health and academic challenges go hand in hand, other times they are distinct. It doesn’t matter - if you are struggling - find support and draw on it. If you worry about people know you are getting help, don’t. These resources are run by professionals, who are discreet and want to support you. Fourth, take time for you. If you take more or less time to realize your goals no one will notice, what matters is outcomes. So structure your work process to have time for things you love, be it cooking, family, or the gym. You will be more productive if you have time for a private life. Fifth, learn to set boundaries. Set boundaries on your time & work & what you share. Your advisor & team don’t have a right to all of your time or need to know everything. Learn to say no. Make time to unwind. Learn to separate work & life. Your work friends should not be your only friends. Sixth, manage your goals. Have small goals that are achievable & reach goals that push you. Know your reach goals may never be realized - it’s ok - not everyone climbs Everest! Acknowledge your progress. You will feel better. Seventh, get help. If overcome, don’t suffer in silence. Reach out. People will listen. #academic life doesn’t have to be unhappy. You can take steps to make it manageable and fun! Best of luck.
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/jason-thatcher-0329764_mentalhealth-mentalhealthweek-phd-activity-6931202859178848256-6giC?utm_source=linkedin_share&utm_medium=member_desktop_web
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