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Depression and studies

7 Replies

Is anyone else dealing with depression while doing their studies? Right now I'm doing a course I don't care for but I don't have many options to change it and I'm finding it hard to cope. It doesn't help that I feel like a failure because I've been studying since I was 16 and I still haven't finished anything. I haven't enjoyed any of my studies and it just seems that I'll never find something I enjoy.

Any tips on coping with a course you don't like and keeping depression at bay?

7 Replies
PastelPink20 profile image
PastelPink20

Yes.

I want to go see my doctor and try a new antidepressant but I have to wait 2 months to get in 😩😭

I think whatever you can do that helps you work on anything is worth trying. Whenever I’m depressed, doing coursework becomes a very low priority. I just don’t care. I am not motivated.

If you can change into a good study space or do whatever you can to hype yourself up or even give Have effort - then, do those things. Getting 6/10 or even 4/10 is better than 0/10.

You really have to give yourself grace and then think about it like you’re playing a game or coaxing yourself out of depression long enough to do whatever you need to do.

If you’ve been studying, you’ve been learning and growing. Even if you figured out all the things you don’t want to do. It might be that your depression is making you not enjoy your studies? Or maybe it’s just what you’re interested in.

I feel like I’ve been lying to myself and everyone for the past year or more while I’ve been taking math and science classes. I’ve gotten more depressed (after being super anxious the first half of the semester)... i feel like im not learning anything and it’s hard to do what’s assigned. I feel stupid. I want to change my major. But, my parents think I should try my best, stay in the math/sciences, and focus on graduating to have a degree.

Music. Change environment. Assign time and COMMIT!! Give yourself a reason to do it - I don’t care if it’s a little stupid reason, it has to be something to give you motivation. It has to be a thought you can cling to when every fiber of your being says “Give up. Don’t get out of bed. I don’t want to study. I don’t understand this. I hate this course.” Whether it’s coffee, wearing your favorite socks, telling yourself “No, I need this grade.” Or “I do care about this class.”

I need to take my own advice. But I did wake up at 8am today for my class so yay.

Basically, it helps to have something... like armor or a weapon in hand, to guard against the thoughts that normally win.

Also: I don’t know how young you are. Take heart! You might have to change your perspective and be content with something you don’t enjoy as much... but it’s okay. Studying and going to class is different than having an actual job in the field. And there are different jobs in the field that can suit your strengths. There is hope.

in reply to PastelPink20

Thanks for your encouragement, it means more than you know 😊 I will try your suggestions and I hope that you're able to study something you actually like ❤️

margaretfinley profile image
margaretfinley

Hey, friend. I am also a college student and can relate to how hard online classes are, especially when I am not interested in many of them. A few things that I have been finding helpful are getting outside to do schoolwork or walk/run, meet up with friends, and even go to coffee shops to do schoolwork. It is such a great time to get involved in organizations on your campus. Have you tried any of those? Let me know if you need any suggestions. The ones I am apart of have been a big lifesaver for me during this crazy time. Also, I find it so beneficial to see a counselor who helps me walk through tough times and navigate life. It was easily one of the best decisions I made a year or two ago when I was in the peak of my struggle with anxiety and depression. Most colleges offer some time of free/reduced price services to students. Does your college offer any services like these? It is also common to feel like you aren't accomplishing much or don't know what you want to do with your life. I would say most college students struggle with that, but I know that doesn't make it easier. Please find someone to talk to and remember that your life is valuable, you are known, and loved. Prayers, friend!

in reply to margaretfinley

Thank you for your answer ❤️ I have just started seeing a psychologist on campus so hopefully that helps me to navigate things better 😊

kgirl13 profile image
kgirl13

i feel you. i was in ap physics last year and it was literal hell. not only was the class hard, the kids in the class would make fun of me for not getting anything (they were like really smart nerds and in a billion ap classes and on the robotics team and everything) and also my teacher was toxic she was so judgemental when i asked for help on like the simplest things (well to her they were basics but to me everything was complicated and i felt like i had to be explained like i was in kindergarten). and my parents were always yelling at me saying that im smart and i should have a better handle on things, that i wasnt trying (which is not true i was), and that i wasnt good enough.

i got so many f's and ended up getting a c in the class. for a while i kinda gave up. i feel like right towards the end of the year i got a little bit better because i had a tutor who was nonjudgemental and really good at explaining things. but even though i got better at the content i still havent gotten over everything else (like with my parents and classmates and teacher).

that was a really long rant im so sorry i just needed to get it off my chest. i guess my best tip is to find a tutor if your trying to study on your own and its not going anywhere. theres nothing wrong with needing a tutor, because tbh sometimes its the only thing that helps with your grades. i honestly dont know how to help with the actual feeling of depression because i struggle alot there too and idk what to do abt it, i'm so sorry i cant help there.

im pretty sure i was useless but i just wanted to let u know that your not alone!! <3

in reply to kgirl13

Thank you, it's good to know that I'm not alone in my struggle ❤️ Finding a tutor is an interesting idea, I hadn't thought of that 🤔 I hope things look up for you soon x

kgirl13 profile image
kgirl13 in reply to

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