Balancing college coursework is challenging enough, but when you’re navigating mental health struggles, it can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, or another condition, it’s important to know that you’re not alone—and that there are ways to study effectively, even on tough days.
Study strategies are crucial in overcoming these challenges and adapting to the increased demands of college coursework. At Integrated Counseling and Wellness in Rexburg, we’re here to support you in both your mental health journey and academic success. Here are 10 strategies to help you study when mental health challenges feel like a barrier:
When dealing with mental health challenges, your first step should be acknowledging your needs and treating yourself with kindness.
Understanding your learning style is crucial to developing effective study habits. Everyone learns differently, and what works for one person may not work for another.
There are several learning styles, including visual, auditory, and kinesthetic. Visual learners thrive on images and diagrams, auditory learners excel with sound and music, and kinesthetic learners benefit from hands-on experiences and movement.
To discover your learning style, experiment with different study methods and observe what resonates with you. Do you grasp concepts better through reading, listening, or doing? Do you prefer to study alone or in a study group? Once you identify your learning style, you can tailor your study habits to fit your needs.
For instance, if you’re a visual learner, incorporate diagrams and charts to simplify complex concepts. Listening to lectures or educational podcasts can enhance your understanding if you're an auditory learner. Kinesthetic learners might find hands-on activities and experiments more effective for retaining information.
Understanding your learning style can help you develop study habits that align with your strengths, making it easier to retain information and succeed.
An adjustable, manageable routine can provide structure without adding unnecessary pressure.
Your environment can have a big impact on your ability to focus and stay calm.
Everyone studies differently, and your approach should support, not drain, your mental health.
When mental health challenges make studying harder, lean on others for support.
Mental health conditions often affect your energy levels. Adjust your approach to match what feels manageable.
Mental health struggles often bring self-doubt or negative thinking, which can disrupt focus.
Despite your best efforts, you may still face obstacles that hinder your learning. These challenges can be internal, like procrastination or lack of motivation, or external, such as distractions or limited resources.
Break your study sessions into smaller, manageable chunks to tackle internal obstacles. This approach can help you stay focused and prevent feelings of overwhelm. Setting specific goals for each study session, such as completing a certain number of pages or finishing a particular assignment, can keep you on track.
Remember, overcoming obstacles is a normal part of the learning process. Don’t be too hard on yourself if you encounter setbacks—use them as learning opportunities to refine your study strategies and move forward.
If you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to access resources in Rexburg.
Your mental health is just as important as academics.
Reviewing and reflecting on your progress is an essential part of the learning process. It helps you identify what you’ve learned, areas that need improvement, and which study strategies are most effective for you.
Set aside time each week to review your notes, summarize key concepts, and formulate questions to deepen your understanding. Reflect on which study strategies are working well and where adjustments might be needed. Celebrate your wins for the week.
By regularly reviewing and reflecting on your progress, you can make informed adjustments to your study habits, stay on track, and achieve your learning goals. This continuous cycle of improvement will support both your academic success and personal growth.
You don’t have to navigate the challenges of mental health and studying alone.
College can be tough, but dealing with mental health challenges doesn’t mean you can’t succeed. By taking small steps, being kind to yourself, and reaching out for help when needed, you can make progress both academically and personally.
If you’re feeling stuck, stressed, or overwhelmed, Integrated Counseling and Wellness is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a session and take the next step toward a healthier, more balanced life.