Sgoil Cheumnaichean Saidheans Sòisealta na h-Alba
This Wellbeing Support Guide aims to introduce available resources in relation to wellbeing and to offer practical, non-clinical strategies that postgraduate researchers (PGRs) can take to proactively manage common challenges during their academic journey. These strategies are preventative measures designed to help you maintain work-life balance, reduce stress, and support your overall wellbeing.
Please note that this is not a replacement for professional mental health support. If you find yourself needing more specialised help or facing significant mental health challenges, we encourage you to contact your GP (doctor), your university’s counselling or mental health service (details below), or speak to your supervisor(s).
In an emergency
If you are experiencing poor mental health, or if you are in crisis, feeling suicidal or worried you might harm yourself – you can get free, non-judgemental and confidential help. Things can get better. Please contact one of these services to talk to someone who can help:
If you are worried about someone else who is in crisis, you can help them. The Samaritans have step-by-step advice to help your support someone else. In an emergency, where a life is in danger or there is risk of serious injury, call 999.
Below you will find links to resources and support services in relation to student wellbeing from the 16 SGSSS partner universities, which helps you connect with your local institution and seek advice from them if necessary. The majority of the support services listed below operate during the daytime, but some universities also offer Nightline support. Please refer to your institution’s wellbeing page for details.
While many of the above institutional services apply to general student cohort, including PGRs, this section includes further resources in relation to wellbeing particularly for PGRs:
Overarching strategies
Strategies for particular scenarios in research life
Finally, here are some practical self-help strategies associated with particular scenarios in research life. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, struggling with procrastination, or dealing with stress, these targeted advice can be easily integrated into your daily research routine. However, please keep in mind that we do not propose these strategies as one size fits all solutions, but it is important to find what works best for you. You can gather and adapt these tips to create a wellbeing toolkit that suits your individual needs and preferences.
| Situation | What is it? | What can I do? |
|---|---|---|
| Feeling research fatigue | Sometimes the demands of your research can lead to mental and physical exhaustion, making it hard to stay motivated or find joy in your work. |
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| Struggling with imposter syndrome | Sometimes you feel self-doubt and fear that your achievements are undeserved, despite evidence of success. |
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| Feeling overwhelmed with multiple tasks | Sometimes you might find yourself juggling numerous responsibilities, making it difficult to prioritise or move forward. |
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| Finding it hard to concentrate or start a task | You might struggle to focus or take the first step due to distractions or stress. |
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