Today, it’s not uncommon for people to pursue personal and professional goals simultaneously. About half of all full-time college students have jobs outside of school. One study showed that 70% of college students are stressed about finances. One of the biggest issues faced by those pursuing school while working full-time is the negative effect it can have on their mental health. Trying to balance work, school, and personal life can leave you feeling burnt out and anxious. Plus, it's hard not to feel overwhelmed with the pressure of doing well in both areas. But if you’ve been concerned with the stress of simultaneously maintaining academic responsibilities and work duties, there are key initiatives you can take to manage your stress and take care of yourself.
Why Work and Pursue Academic Goals at the Same Time?
There are many great reasons someone might choose to work full-time while pursuing academic goals, such as improving financial stability, career advancement, and personal fulfillment. The benefits of doing so can also be fulfilling, such as gaining practical experience, developing time management skills, and expanding your professional network. However, there are also pitfalls that can creep in, such as burnout, stress, and lack of work-life balance.
The Impact of Academic Stress on Your Mental Health
According to CompareCamp.com, heavy workloads, poor sleep schedules, not enough downtime, and poor time management are factors that may lead to academic stress. 80% of college students experience frequent bouts of stress. Another factor that aids academic stress is the financial hurdles tied to getting a great education. Students who are already working to make ends meet have the added cost of putting themselves through school, leading to increased anxiety.
Here are 4 Essential Ways to Help Manage Academic-Work-Life Balance
- Practice self-care: Take care of your physical and emotional needs by getting enough sleep, eating well, and engaging in activities that you enjoy. Explore stress management techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, yoga, or journaling. Find what works best for you and incorporate these practices into your daily routine.
- Set boundaries: Establish clear boundaries between work, school, and personal life to avoid burnout and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Use tools like planners or digital calendars to stay organized and ensure you don’t overcommit yourself. It’s okay to say no, so practice saying no when necessary to take time to study or take quick breaks between projects. To help boundary set, break down your tasks into manageable goals and prioritize them based on importance and urgency. Celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small, and be kind to yourself if you encounter setbacks.
- Seek a support system: Reach out to friends, family, and mental health professionals for support and guidance. Look into support groups at school that you can join that can provide encouragement, understanding, and perspective during challenging times. Make a list of your family and friends to remind yourself who you can go to ask for help when needed.
- Use Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): EAPs can provide confidential counseling, referrals, and other resources to help you manage stress and support your mental health. This is a benefit your work or school should offer that can provide guidance, coping strategies, and additional resources to help you manage physical, mental, and financial stress. A modern EAP will offer a mobile app with multiple on-demand resources and activities to maintain your well-being and prioritize self-care. It’s free and confidential for you to use.
The Bottom Line
Stress from working full-time while pursuing academic goals is real, but finding an equilibrium without getting your mental health down is doable. By following the tips outlined in this blog post and seeking support when needed, you can achieve your academic and professional goals while maintaining your mental well-being.
