How to study with depression

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Wiesal

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Any tips on how to study with depression? I've been at states so low it was necessary for me to be admitted as a psychiatric inpatient, twice.

This is ruining me, any help?
 
You must see a psychiatrist, therapist and/or counselor immediately. Depression is a serious issue that requires prompt attention, and given your prior admissions, it sounds like it's a recurring problem.

Once you have your depression treated and under control, you can focus on studying and using your school's learning services as assistance.
 
This may sound corny, but try to make it as enjoyable as possible. Find a way to reward yourself.

FWIW, music, coffee, and pastries have always helped me study during difficult times.
 
This may sound corny, but try to make it as enjoyable as possible. Find a way to reward yourself.

FWIW, music, coffee, and pastries have always helped me study during difficult times.

n=1 here.

Depression is awful and there aren't really any "get happy quick" strategies to help. I can't even begin to describe how soul-crushing it is, especially without the aid of a psychiatrist. I suggest that OP seek help now if they have access. It is a problem that has the potential to ruin your life if you're not careful. If not, then it may be smart to take a break from school until you can get yourself figured out; it's better to ace classes later than take them with depression and then retake them later to repair.
 
OP, I don't know if this would work for you, but when I feel myself breaking down (I have GAD and severe depression disorder) I put my entire soul and focus into studying. In fact, I obsess. I didn't figure out this helping me until second semester, but because I figured it out I pulled out a 4.0. It's not going to cure you or necessarily make you happy, but, I know a big thing for me is that I can get worked up about things out of my control, and my grades are DEFINITELY something I can control. So it just manages it and takes your mind off of whatever triggered you.

Not sure if this is necessarily help, but I thought I'd share. Feel free to PM me if you want more advice or any detail on this. Definitely see a therapist though.


Sent from my iPhone using SDN mobile
 
Depression is awful and there aren't really any "get happy quick" strategies to help. I can't even begin to describe how soul-crushing it is, especially without the aid of a psychiatrist. I suggest that OP seek help now if they have access. It is a problem that has the potential to ruin your life if you're not careful. If not, then it may be smart to take a break from school until you can get yourself figured out; it's better to ace classes later than take them with depression and then retake them later to repair.

+1 to this.
 
Seek help and all that, you've heard that bit before.

If you can, have a study buddy who knows your situation and can help you cut out extra drains on your energy when you're running low. Can't make it to the library? Difficulty getting dressed? Have them come to you and study in your pajamas. Also as much as possible keep a good support network of peers, tutors, and counselors around you who help you keep on track when you have trouble breaking big tasks into lists of smaller steps.

If you are really suffering in a particular quarter or semester, take a medical leave. Don't rush yourself to complete school on the schedule that your non-depressed peers do. Talk to your school's disability assistance office. You have a psyciatric disability and you are entitled to reasonable accommodations. The trick to getting them, is to ask early, before you need them. Brainstorm with your counselor about what kind of accommodations you might find helpful.
 
Thanks for the advice everyone. I'll definitely be seeing a psychiatrist and psychologist/therapist.
OP, I don't know if this would work for you, but when I feel myself breaking down (I have GAD and severe depression disorder) I put my entire soul and focus into studying. In fact, I obsess. I didn't figure out this helping me until second semester, but because I figured it out I pulled out a 4.0. It's not going to cure you or necessarily make you happy, but, I know a big thing for me is that I can get worked up about things out of my control, and my grades are DEFINITELY something I can control. So it just manages it and takes your mind off of whatever triggered you.

Not sure if this is necessarily help, but I thought I'd share. Feel free to PM me if you want more advice or any detail on this. Definitely see a therapist though.


Sent from my iPhone using SDN mobile
Unfortunately, I'd rather withdraw myself myself when I am depressed. I'm glad that works for you though!
n=1 here.

Depression is awful and there aren't really any "get happy quick" strategies to help. I can't even begin to describe how soul-crushing it is, especially without the aid of a psychiatrist. I suggest that OP seek help now if they have access. It is a problem that has the potential to ruin your life if you're not careful. If not, then it may be smart to take a break from school until you can get yourself figured out; it's better to ace classes later than take them with depression and then retake them later to repair.
I tend to feel rushed to finish school, as if my life is too short to achieve everything that I desire. As you say though, maybe I need to discard
This may sound corny, but try to make it as enjoyable as possible. Find a way to reward yourself.

FWIW, music, coffee, and pastries have always helped me study during difficult times.
Junk food!
 
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