There are numerous studies that show the consequences of doing a doctorate for mental health, and it is possible to highlight several negative aspects in this regard. Many people choose to pursue a PhD to advance their professional careers, seeking new knowledge and improving their employment situation. However, one of the fundamental aspects that must be taken into account when doing a doctorate is how it will affect our mental health.

The PhD is a student and professional stage that offers an opportunity to delve into a field of study of interest and obtain a higher education degree. Although the benefits of higher education are many, there are some who wonder if pursuing a PhD can have negative consequences for mental health. This question is totally valid, as pressure and lack of support can sometimes affect the mental health of PhD students. In this article we will explain the consequences of doing a PhD for mental health.

Doing a PhD affects mental health

Academic pressure is one of the main concerns for PhD students. There is no doubt that the doctorate is a difficult stage, and students often feel pressured to achieve high academic achievement. This can lead to feelings of anxiety and stress, which can directly affect students’ mental health. A study conducted in the UK found that PhD students had a higher rate of depression than those who were not pursuing a PhD. This suggests that stress and academic pressure can negatively affect the mental health of doctoral students.

In addition to academic pressure, PhD students often have to deal with a lack of support. Recent studies have found that many PhD students do not receive the support they need to complete their PhD. This can be particularly true for PhD students who do not have access to a tutor or a suitable tutor. This lack of support can be problematic for the mental health of PhD students, as it can affect their motivation and commitment to the program.

It is also important to note that the time spent on PhD can limit the time students spend with friends and family. This can affect mental health, as students may feel isolated and unsupported. Also, a PhD student’s lifestyle can be very different from their friends and family, which can make it difficult to connect with them. PhD is a very hard work stage and many students find themselves working alone for long periods of time. This loneliness can be decisive in the mental health of the person, since students can feel isolated and without support. This loneliness can also affect students’ motivation and make them feel discouraged and bored.

The main consequences of doing a PhD for mental health

PhD can be a challenging and demanding experience both mentally and physically. It can take a great deal of time and effort to complete a PhD thesis and defend it before a panel of experts. This can be stressful and can affect the mental health of some people. Some possible mental health consequences may include:

Stress

Research work and writing a thesis can be very demanding and can generate a great deal of stress.

Anxiety

Uncertainty about the outcome of the thesis and the possibility of not completing it on time can generate anxiety.

Depression

Isolation and lack of social support during the doctoral process can contribute to depression.

Sleeping problems

Stress and workload can interfere with your sleep pattern and affect mental and physical health.

It is important to remember that each person is different and may experience different effects on their mental health during their PhD. It is essential to be aware of any changes in mental health and seek support if necessary.

Conclusion

In conclusion, pursuing a doctorate is a decision that must be taken carefully, since it implies many commitments and consequences for mental health. Academic pressure, lack of support, loneliness, and time spent on PhD can negatively affect students’ mental health. PhD students should be aware of these factors and seek help if they are experiencing mental health problems. In addition, PhD students should seek the help of their peers and tutors, as they can provide the necessary support and motivation to help students achieve academic success.