Conducting doctoral studies is interesting and intriguing. It is also challenging, and an engagement of several years. Research may not proceed well, and funding may cease leading to a need to obtain another job. Therefore, it is important to proactively take care of your well being. The major stress factors according to an extensive (n=6000) international survey done by Nature are uncertainty of career prospects as well as difficulty to maintain a work–life balance.
Tools to support wellbeing
Social support from the supervisors and other members of academic community, intentional limitation of working hours as well stress management methods have been found as effective ways to prevent a burn out.
Therefore, take care of yourself:
- reserve time for family and friends, hobbies, relaxation and sleep
- exercise, learn more about UEF sport services
- find a supporting academic society (e.g. Association of doctoral researchers, ItäVä or ISYY Student Organisation)
You can test your own psychosocial load using the Workload Assessment Tool created by The Centre for Occupational Safety.
You can also strengthen and maintain your well-being at work by completing the hands-on exercises of the Wellbeing at work for grant-funded researchers- workbook by TJS Opintokeskus.
Also, check student psychology Maria Törnroos’ tips for stress and time management in her blog PhD pathfinder.
(Work) life crises
You can find information about other providers of help in Kamu. NB! The services of a study psychologist are not available to doctoral researchers.
Support for difficult situations at work
To be updated shortly.