Hi there,

Lots of people get stuck in a cycle of feeling behind and unable to catch up. It can feel hopeless at times, but there are ways to take control.

The first thing is to take a step back and think about what you need to do. It’s natural to want to cram everything in as fast as possible, but that will leave you feeling burnt out. Breaking things down can make them feel more manageable and easier to get done.

Next, you need to make a schedule you can stick to. Think about how long something would take, what you’ll need for it, and when’s best to plan it. Make sure you’re being realistic and including time for you to take breaks, relax, and look after yourself.

When there’s lots to do, it might not always feel possible to fit everything in. If something’s too hard or the deadline is too close, it’s time to get support. Speaking to that teacher about ways they can help you is an important place to start.

Remember, your schedule doesn’t need to be set for weeks, and it’s okay to change anything that isn’t working. We’ve got other tips to help, and you’re not alone.

Getting to know new people when you’re already busy is tricky, it can help to remember that you have the lesson in common. Try thinking about just one person in a class you might want to talk to and try starting a conversation with them. You could share contact details to help each other with work, or vent together about the deadlines. Making new friends takes time, but it’s okay to start small and work on that.

Childline is here for anyone who’s struggling or needs extra support, and you can talk to our counsellors about anything that’s bothering you.

Take care,

Sam