A student is drowning in academic demands. How can you help them stay afloat?

Check your capabilities in real world ...not just in your mind. Be practical for every job either your study or Work. Don't hesitate to explain your wish and your thoughts.

One thing I have found helpful is my To-Do Week-alendar. A To-Do Week-alendar is actually To do list and weekly calendar combined for time management. It includes all tasks for a daily and weekly schedule. It includes wake up/sleep time, meal preparation and execution, work/class time, travel time to and from work/school, study time, exercise and relaxation time daily as realistic as possible to promote productivity and limit stress and anxiety. I began using this method as a student when I was struggling to keep up while working. I always encourage my students, friends and family to create same to reap maximum benefits while studying.

In my experience, finding and providing the tools for students to navigate the demands of their academics has been helpful. Follow up emails with direct links or contact information for services on and off campus take the stress of finding support off the student. Brainstorming the best support strategies is essential as well; involve the student in the process.

As someone with experience as a professor, personal tutor, supervisor, and mentor, I have found that one of the main reasons students feel overwhelmed is because they are neglecting their well-being, leading to burnout. Hence, it's crucial to emphasize the importance of self-care, including regular sleep, proper nutrition, exercise, and relaxation. Research has consistently shown that self-care practices are essential for maintaining mental and physical health, significantly improving academic performance, and reducing stress levels.

Recently, I discussed this problem with one of my clients, demonstrating how the Eisenhower Matrix can help: Reduce mental clutter (cognitive load), focus on what's most important (prioritising tasks), use time more wisely (time management), keep long-term goals in mind (goal alignment), lower stress levels, and improve study habits over time (reflective practice).

I advise my students to keep a realistic, balanced course schedule. For example, if they feel they are not a strong writer, don't register for all seminar or heavy writing classes. Balance those with classes that typically have less of a writing component. It's important to know your limits and be honest about what is manageable so you do not feel overwhelmed.

1. BE HUMAN - Our students are human beings so we should treat them as such. When I notice colleagues are having similar deadlines for assignments, I usually delay mine to give my students breathing space. 2. REWARD EFFORT - Students who have far too many deadlines will not perform well. Thus, we must reward even the smallest of achievements so our students will feel appreciated (and rejuvenated). 3. HAVE A CHEAT DAY - Near end of the semester, don't have a proper lecture. Chill with students, have a small class 'party' maybe. You'll be surprised how positively students will react and be able to cope with their studies after that.

I think this is the first step I would take in supporting a student. I need to have a better understanding of the student's holistic experience in and out school, to have a better idea of how best to craft an intervention plan with them. I also have to think about the student means by "drowning" in academic demands, because this could mean the student has 100 uncompleted assignments, or 10. Both are scary, especially based on how the students perceives them, but it also gives me a better idea of how much scaffolding and support we need to provide.

Working as a first year advisor, I take the opportunity during a student's second semester to talk through what worked and what did not in their first semester. We can then take that learning experience and plan for the next time.