Are you a PhD student? Do you have a PhD student as a friend or a family member or as a lover. If you do, then you need to read this till the end. There has been a report in which 3,659 students were surveyed and from the survey, the following assertions were made.
PhD students have been reported to be at risk of developing psychiatric disorders including depression, bipolar disorder and chronic stress. From the study, it was reported that students who are studying for their PhD programs are more likely to experience at least 2 symptoms of poor mental health in addition to depression, social withdrawal and loss of sleep.
The symptoms are likely to be caused by constant worrying and the inability to overcome difficulties and enjoy daily activities. In addition to this, is the pressure from work, low payment and work-life balance that prevented them from meeting their needs and the needs of their families. PhD students face several challenges in their career including meeting deadlines, job security, isolation and sometimes unfriendly supervisors. These challenges contribute to developing mental health problems which can develop into serious threats to one's well-being and career and can lead to harmful consequences in the long-term.
A few things seems to help curb the reported symptoms...students with inspirational supervisors and a well-defined career plan show fewer symptoms of poor mental health indicating that having a clear vision of the future could be a protective factor against mental health problems
Most PhD students graduate unprepared for non academic careers which makes their situation even more worse.
And as suggestions, it was suggested that universities should increase their efforts to help students and give them a chance to achieve a healthy work-life balance. Supervisors should be trained to adopt constructive leadership style.
They should also learn how to spot signs of potential emotional distress and symptoms of poor mental health.
They should look out for students who isolate themselves, who seem anxious and withdrawn and are not meeting deadlines. They should be able to spot changes in their students and have the knowledge required to refer them for support.
Students should also be trained for both academic and non-academic life. If you are struggling, it's important to seek professional help or seek help in your personal environment.
If you see a PhD student please give them a hug and tell them that it will be okay. You might be saving a life you never know.
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