University can be tough. Juggling weekly readings, assessments, work commitments and your social life can be stressful. But it shouldn’t feel completely overwhelming. Here’s what to do if you are struggling to keep up with the workload this semester.
1. Talk to someone
The most important thing you can do is talk to someone close to you. Whether that’s a family member or one of your friends, just let them know what’s going on. Having a heart-to-heart can help lift the weight of stress off your shoulders and allow those around you to offer their support and advice.
2. Write a list
Get it all down on paper by writing down a list of every assessment, task and commitment. That way you can clear your head of all your deadlines and focus on working through them, one at a time.
3. Reduce your workload
The fact that you are feeling under pressure likely means you have too much on your plate. So, reduce your workload if you can. Look at everything written on the list you made above and consider what tasks can be pushed back or temporarily removed. For example, can you reduce your work hours for the rest of semester? Little changes like this can make a big difference, not just to your free time but also your headspace.
4. Make a schedule
Use your list of tasks to create a schedule. It could be just for today, or it could be for the next week. Take the time to consider how long each activity will realistically take and block it out, hour by hour. Make sure to leave quality time for yourself, whether that’s watching a movie or hanging out with friends.
5. Reward yourself
Don’t overwork yourself. Each time you finish something on your list, celebrate. For smaller tasks, you could take a bite of your favourite snack or take a five-minute break. For bigger tasks, order takeaway or go for a walk. Use the rewards as a way to motivate yourself to get through each task, one at a time.
6. Talk to a Student Wellbeing Advisor
If you are still feeling overwhelmed and would like some advice from someone within the uni itself, reach out the Student Wellbeing Advisory Service at Curtin. Booking a session with a Student Wellbeing Advisor is free and allows you to chat with someone who understands the pressures of being a student. Additionally, Student Wellbeing Advisors can offer their support and advice, as well as point you in the direction of further resources if needed.
Written by creative writing and professional writing student, Abbey Carson.
