TOO MUCH STRESS, thinking about taking a break from college...

This sounds really dumb and all, but I have a lot of stuff going on in my life right now, I was taking one college course but between my work, issues with my family back home, my own personal demons that I have been dealing with and constantly flying out (at least once a month) for job training.  I just don't think I can keep up with the class.  This just makes me feel even more like crap that I can't handle one simple class, but it is just adding so much more stress.  I have sacrificed a lot just to balance all the issues above and the class, like I used to be able to come home from work and relax and play video games for an hour or so each night, now I am lucky if I get in an hour a week.  The even crappier (I know that’s not a word) thing is that when I do have some extra down time for video games, or going out to the movies, etc... I can't because I am stressing to much about the things mentioned above, the only issue that can alleviate some of that stress seems to be dropping this class.  I don't know, what do you guys think?  Thanks in advance

I can totally relate to feeling this way and I don't think it sounds dumb at all--it sounds like you have a lot going on. Don't feel bad about yourself for being stressed out thought because it seems like it isn't that you can't handle one class it's that you're having a hard time managing a class, a job, training/travel, family and personal things without having much time to relax. That is definitely stressful. How far into the class are you? Is it possible you could just make it through the end and then re-examine what's going on.

What are some other changes you could make? I don't know if any of these are possible because sometimes you truly are doing all you can and it's still not working out (grr!) but maaybe you could:

cut back on work?

opt out of travel? or just go every other month?

enlist someone to help you with some day-to-day chores so you could have a little more free time?

(without knowing about your family) let go of family probs a little and accept it?

see a therapist/counselor every couple weeks to vent a bit?

It sounds like you're really trying hard to do well and you are managing a TON of things so you're probably doing the best you can. I hope something lets up and gives you a break soon, feel free to message me if you want to vent or need some help.

Hey, keep your chin up.

I have been in your position before, and I did once give up college for a semester to deal with my eating disorder. This semester I dropped one paper so that I would be less stressed, as stress is a real trigger for me. So I totally see where you're coming from!

Two things - firstly, remember there are times when your health should be your first priority, definitely at the expense of other things in your life. There's nothing wrong with focusing on yourself. Particularly if you can take time out to fix yourself, it means everything is a lot more smooth sailing later.

Secondly, you can always go back to studying later. I have dropped plenty of papers in my time and am still well on my way to getting my degree. You have the rest of your life ahead of you.

I am sorry you are facing so much. I think there is always time for school. Health mental and physical is number 1. It sounds like you know what you need to do and I would follow what is in your heart. I do feel that even if you drop this class you need to look at ways to deal with the rest of what is going on because it sounds like a lot. I wonder in addition to the class what other things may help you?

Hey Osainto,

Is this a for-credit course that will leave a ding on your transcript or GPA if you drop it now? If not, you can give yourself permission to drop the course... especially if you've still got a long way to go before it's finished.

I had to drop a math course this semester and at the time I really struggled over the decision because I didn't want to be a "quitter." I'm now incredibly glad that I did drop it, though. Life's just too short to to be in a stressful state all of the time - and besides, you'd probably learn more if you had more time to dedicate to the course.  =)

Hey there! 

Here's a thought... can you finish up this semester, take the summer off, and do some online courses in the fall?  That way you're still doing -something- and you won't feel like a "quitter" or a "slacker" or anything like that.  In my experience, online classes aren't nearly as demanding--that way you can regroup, so to speak.  Sounds like you're closing in on burnout, been there, done that, and trust me, you want to avoid it.

As for the one class, have you spoken to the professor and explained what you're thinking and how you're feeling?  Sometimes they can be a little less aggressive if they know where you're coming from.  If it isn't someone you can work with, and there's no other way, I'd suggest dropping it.  You need some mental health time, truly. 

Thank you all for the advice, I am pretty sure I am going to drop the class, I am less then half way through it and given the situation...  But thanks again for all the input, hopefully it will alleviate some of the stress..

If you really need to take time off then do it, but know that there are always going to be other things going on in your life - just don't let those other things get in the way of your education.