Tips for studying (with depression/anxiety)
Sometimes depression can make it really hard to get anything done. Sometimes it’s hard to get out of bed. Sometimes it’s hard to do anything but binge watch your favorite shows and eat junk food. But if you’re enrolled in classes, sometimes there are just things you have to get done. I have clinical depression and anxiety (I’ve been hospitalized for both a few times and I’ve been to therapists on and off for three years). Something a lot of people don’t know is that procrastination and “laziness” are symptoms of being depressed and anxious (I didn’t know until I was discussing with a friend). Here are some tips that I’ve found helpful in studying.
1. Make to-do lists. It doesn’t have to be a bullet journal, it could just be a notebook. But I’ve found that laying everything that needs to get done out in a visual way helps me a lot.
2. Do as much work as you can when you’re feeling motivated/good. We can never tell when an episode is going to occur. I never know when I’m going to become lazy and stay in bed. No matter how many plans we make, it doesn’t work. So I’ve found that by making the lists and distributing things when they need to get done, I can work ahead if I have extra time when I’m feeling super energized and focused.
3. Have a study buddy. Pair up with someone who will hold you accountable. Me and my high school best friend are starting 100 days of productivity together tomorrow. She doesn’t even go to school anymore, but just having someone who will hold me accountable for doing things will help me in the long run.
4. Discuss things with your professors. At my old school when I was really having problems, I emailed all my professors and met with them to let them know about my situation. They let me come to office hours instead of talking in class for participation points. It was really helpful and they were very understanding. Of course, only do this if you’re comfortable disclosing your diagnosis and with your professors.
5. Take advantage of your school’s programs. I haven’t done this yet, but I plan to this coming semester. Most schools have a counseling and psychological services, so if you’re feeling like you need to talk to someone, do it. You’re paying for these services whether you use them or not. Even if you don’t have a diagnosed mental illness, if you’re feeling overwhelmed or something happens, you can always talk to someone or go to a group meeting.
6. If you like to exercise, do it. Exercising gives you energy and it really does keep you in a better mood.
7. Spend as much time in study areas on campus as possible. I’ve found that I definitely get more work done when I’m on campus (I commute now). Even in the dorm rooms, we get caught up on our phones or with tv. When I’m out in a study environment (library, student center, lounge, etc.), I am less likely to get distracted or lay in bed with no motivation. I do as much work as I can when I’m actually on campus.
8. Drink and eat while you study. Again, you want to keep your focus and keep your energy up, so drink water and eat an energizing snack (like fruit or a granola bar).
9. Keep a planner or calendar. Depression can mess with your memory and your perception of time, so it’s important to keep a planner or calendar that keeps you up to date with assignments. I didn’t start until a few years ago, but it’s helped me a lot. I can’t even remember the number of times when a professor said something like “Okay, your papers are due next class” and I was in total shock.
10. Sleep! Sleep for a set amount of time every day. Even if you’re tired. If you have extra time during the day, take an energy nap, but try not to over sleep or under sleep. I know for me, I tend to stay up really late and then sleep all day. DO NOT DO THIS. Try to keep normal sleeping hours. Oversleeping is just as bad because it takes up all your energy and just makes you tired.
That’s all I can think of for now. I’m sure I’ll think of more and probably make a part two as this semester goes on! Add your own if you have a good one. :)
