If you're in high-school or at a tertiary level, it's likely that you are currently studying from home due to the COVID-19 social distancing restrictions. While studying from home has some perks (like not needing to wear pants) it definitely has its setbacks too. Here are a few tips to maintain good mental health and motivation during this challenging season.
HAVE A STUDY SPACE
As tempting as it is, don't study in bed or on the couch. These are meant to be places for relaxation. Set up boundaries in your space to keep your work brain seperate to your relaxation brain. A designated study room or study spot, like a desk in your bedroom, will work.
STICK TO OLD ROUTINES
Not going to school, TAFE or University means no commute! The alarm goes off and you can easily roll out of bed five minutes before your first ZOOM class starts.
Don't fall into this trap. Keep your normal routines wherever possible. Start the day as you usually would, get dressed in the morning and have breakfast and lunch away from the screen. You will find yourself being more productive during the day and more restful at night if you are disciplined with your routine.
TAKE BREAKS FROM THE SCREEN
Virtual study means spending a lot more time in front of a computer, straining the eyes and the mind. It's important to take breaks during the day and cut back on screen time when relaxing after studying. Try to spend time with those in your household after you've logged-off. Read a book, go for a short walk or do something creative. While it's okay to still use your screens post studying, be selective with the content and enjoy quality over quantity (hours of social media scrolling or binging Netflix won't really give your body a chance to relax post-work).
LEAN ON GOD
If you're in Year Twelve or going through a stressful uni semester, the disruptions that social distancing has caused to your learning can be really hard. It's understandable that you may get frustrated that your marks may not be as great as usual or that your coursework has been delayed. It's helpful to remember that Christ allows all things to transpire for our good and, even now, is working for our higher purpose. Marks, ATARs and degrees cannot validate your self-worth in any way. God loves you because you are simply His child and he will use all things for your benefit.
Set time aside each day to pray, meditate and read the Bible, even if it is just a short passage from the psalms. Try to tune into Church services online while in isolation. Drawing on your faith will help you gain peace and perspective during this trial.
Prayer of a Student Christ my Lord, the Giver of light and wisdom, who opened the eyes of the blind man and transformed the fishermen into wise heralds and teachers of the gospel through the coming of the Holy Spirit, shine also in my mind the light of the grace of the Holy Spirit. Grant me discernment, understanding and wisdom in learning. Enable me to complete my assignments despite these testing times and to abound in every good work, for to You I give honour and glory. Amen.
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