PhD students are at risk of developing psychiatric disorders including depression, bipolar disorder and chronic stress.
Students who are enrolled in PhD programs are more likely to experience at least two symptoms of poor mental health including 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.
3,659 students were surveyed for this study and participants reported that a number of factors contributed to their symptoms including work pressure, low payment and work-life balance which prevented them from meeting their needs and the needs of their families.
PhD students face several challenges in their career including 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 seemed to help curb the reported symptoms. Students with inspirational supervisors and a well-defined career plan seemed to 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 nonacademic careers which makes their situation even more serious.
How to deal with this?
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 styles. They should also learn how to spot signs of potential emotional distress and any 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They should look out for students who isolate themselves, who seem anxious and withdrawn and are not meeting deadlines.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're struggling, it's important to seek professional help or seek help in your personal environment.
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