How to manage academic pressure (and prioritise your wellbeing)

Let us impart one truth to you: No grade or assignment is worth sacrificing your mental health. Ortinel, a Master of Occupational Therapy student, says: “The brain is an organ. Just like every other organ, if we don’t look after it properly and take good care of it, it will have a lot of adverse effects on our health.” You’ve only got one brain—one mind. It is essential to take care of it. 

But how do you do that at uni, amongst competing deadlines, work, social life and more? Well, it all starts with learning how to manage academic pressure—and prioritising your wellbeing.

For World Mental Health Day (10 October), let’s talk about some ways you can strike the perfect balance between your studies and wellbeing.

1. Recognise when you’re overwhelmed

One of the first steps to managing academic pressure is recognising when it’s starting to build up. Many students push themselves until they burn out, not realising how stressed they are until it’s too late. Pay attention to the signs; for example, you might have trouble sleeping, you’re feeling anxious or irritable, or you’re procrastinating more than usual. These could be signs that you’re overwhelmed and need to take a step back.

Being aware of your limits and acknowledging when you need a break is essential for maintaining god wellbeing. Don’t wait until you’re feeling completely drained—address the pressure early by managing your workload and incorporating self-care into your routine.

2. Practice time management

Managing your time effectively can make a huge difference in how you handle academic stress. When you’re disorganised, tasks can pile up quickly, making everything seem much worse than it is. Here are some time management tips to help you stay on top of things:

• Create a study schedule: Break down your work into smaller, manageable tasks and assign specific time blocks to each. This can help prevent last-minute cramming, which is a major source of stress.
• Prioritise important tasks: Figure out what needs to be done first and focus on those tasks. Prioritise based on deadlines, the importance of the assignment and how much time it will take to complete.
• Use tools: Planners, to-do lists, and apps like Google Calendar or Trello can help you organise your day and track your progress. This way, you won’t have to worry about forgetting assignments or exams as they appear.

3. Learn to say no

As much as you might want to be involved in everything, it’s important to recognise your limits. Taking on too much, whether it’s extracurricular activities, social commitments, or additional classes, can add to your stress. It’s okay to say no sometimes! Prioritise your mental health and academic success over trying to do it all.

By limiting your commitments, you’ll have more time and energy to focus on the things that truly matter, like your studies and wellbeing. Remember, university isn’t just about academics; it’s also about maintaining balance.

If you’re struggling with knowing how and when to say no, read our handy guide!

4. Practice self-care regularly

As mentioned in an article earlier this week [insert link], self-care isn’t just about pampering yourself. It’s about intentionally doing things that support your physical, emotional and mental health. When you’re feeling the weight of academic pressure, self-care can act as a buffer to prevent burnout.

Want to learn how to create a self-care plan? We’ve got you covered. [insert link]

5. Reach out for help when you need it

It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed by academic pressure at times, but you don’t have to deal with it alone. Reach out for support if you’re struggling. Talk to friends or family members, or connect with one of our Student Wellbeing Advisors. Sometimes, just talking about what’s stressing you out can help you feel more in control.

Managing academic pressure is an ongoing process, but it’s possible to handle it while prioritising your mental health. By practicing time management, setting boundaries, taking care of yourself and seeking support when needed, you’ll be better equipped to navigate university without feeling overwhelmed. Remember, your wellbeing always comes first!

Want to hear more from Ortinel about what he’s learned about wellbeing as a Curtin student? Watch our video below.

Mental Health Week is a celebration dedicated to raising awareness about mental wellbeing, encouraging social connection, reducing the stigma around mental health and promoting prevention strategies to keep our communities healthy.