What should I do if I am struggling with my studies?

Struggling with your studies does not mean you are not capable. It usually means something specific is getting in the way, and that something can often be found and fixed. The first step is to work out what kind of struggle you are facing.

Work out what is actually going wrong

Ask yourself a few honest questions:

• Is the material too hard, or am I missing background knowledge?
• Can I focus when I sit down, or does my mind wander constantly?
• Am I studying enough, or am I studying in a way that does not work?
• Am I sleeping, eating, and moving enough to learn well?
• Do I feel anxious, low, or overwhelmed most days?

Your answers point to different solutions. A subject gap needs teaching. A focus problem needs changes to your environment and habits. A wellbeing problem needs support, not just more hours at the desk.

Talk to someone who can help

Do not try to solve this alone. Teachers, tutors, teaching assistants, and academic advisors deal with this every day and can explain things differently, adjust deadlines, or point you to support services. Most schools, colleges, and universities have study-skills centres, writing centres, and counselling services. Asking for help is a normal part of learning, not an admission of failure.

If you are a parent or carer, contact the school or institution directly and ask what support is available.

Change how you study

Many students study in ways that feel productive but are not. Rereading notes and highlighting are among the least effective methods. Try these instead:

1. Active recall: close the book and write down what you remember, then check what you missed.
2. Spaced practice: review material over several days rather than cramming once.
3. Small blocks: work in focused blocks of around 25 to 45 minutes with short breaks.
4. Explain it: teach a topic out loud to yourself or someone else. Gaps become obvious fast.
5. Start with the hardest task when your energy is highest.

Protect your basics

Learning depends on a functioning brain and body. Aim for consistent sleep, regular meals, water, and some daily movement. Cut back on late-night scrolling and all-night study sessions, which damage memory and mood. Reduce distractions by putting your phone in another room while you work.

What not to do

• Do not ignore the problem and hope it resolves itself.
• Do not compare yourself constantly to classmates; compare your progress to your own past work.
• Do not rely on cramming, energy drinks, or stimulants to push through.
• Do not withdraw from friends, family, or activities that support you.

When to seek professional help

If you feel persistently low, anxious, unable to sleep, or hopeless, or if you are having thoughts of harming yourself, speak to a doctor, counsellor, or another health professional promptly. In an emergency, contact your local emergency services immediately.

Struggling is a signal to adjust, not a verdict on your ability. Pick one step today: identify the real obstacle, then ask one person for help.

This is general information and not a substitute for professional advice. If you are in crisis, contact local emergency services or a crisis helpline in your country.