Hi Sam, I've been having a lot of school work recently and I'm really struggling to keep on top of it. I have exams coming up so that means a lot of revision as well as additional homework and school work to be finished at home. I set up a homework/revision timetable to help keep on top of it all but I just can't. I feel depressed and down all day at school but I try my best and use my work and friends as a distraction. However, as soon as I get home it's as if I just can't distract myself anymore. I use all my energy to keep going in school so when I get home I just feel emotionally exhausted. I have no motivation to read, go for a walk or even watch a movie never mind homework. I try my best to do my revision and other school work but I just do it so slow or I'm so spaced out that none of it makes sense. I feel so down I just want to curl up and cry then go to sleep the minute school ends. My homework is now never finished or awful compared to classwork and teachers are getting impatient and just think I can't be bothered. Any tips on improving motivation?
Sam
Hi there,
Thanks for your letter. I'm really glad you're reaching out for support and talking about how you're feeling.
Keeping up with homework and preparing for exams can be difficult when you’re not feeling motivated. And when you’ve got lots of different pieces of work to do it can be difficult to know where to start.
Homework and revision can be stressful, especially when you’re feeling depressed. Not talking about things can make you feel worse or like you’re the only person feeling this way. Remember if you’re starting to feel down or stressed, it can help to speak to an adult you trust or to Childline. When people know how you feel they’re able to be more understanding when you’re struggling.
There are lots of things you can try to help cope with homework and revision. It’s important to let yourself take regular breaks, which can help to make things feel less overwhelming and give you the motivation to keep going.
It's great that you've set up a homework/revision timetable. When there’s a lot to do writing down all of the different pieces of work you need to complete can really help. Having this list doesn’t mean you have to do it all; you can pick the most important pieces and plan what you think is realistic. Remember that it’s better to do some work than none at all.
Childline counsellors are always here to support you with anything that might be happening. They can help you think about what motivates you and support you when you’re feeling depressed. You can also get lots of ideas about how to boost your motivation on the Childline message boards.
Take care,
Sam
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