Balancing responsibilities as a Student
Student life is often described as carefree, but the reality is more complex. Alongside your studies, you may be juggling work, finances, friendships and your wellbeing.
Finding balance isn’t about doing everything perfectly. It’s about understanding your priorities, setting boundaries, and knowing when to ask for support.
The responsibilities you’re balancing
Your studies
Your course is a key priority, but it rarely exists in isolation. Deadlines, exams, group work and revision all take time and energy. When academic work starts to take over everything else, it can affect motivation and wellbeing.
If you’re struggling academically, support is available through your School, tutors and KnowHow, which exists to help you develop your academic skills and library support.
Your social life
Meeting new people and getting involved can be a great part of university life. Joining a society, or getting involved with the Guild of Students activities is a great way to meet new people. But saying yes to everything can quickly lead to feeling overwhelmed.
It’s okay to step back sometimes. Protecting time for rest or study isn’t missing out; it’s part of looking after yourself and not burning out.
Money
Managing money can be stressful, especially if you’re budgeting independently for the first time. Worries about rent, bills or food costs can quickly affect your mental health.
If money worries are causing stress, you can speak to our Money Advice and Guidance Team for money advice, budgeting guidance and financial support.
Looking after yourself
Self-care isn’t a luxury; it’s essential. Eating regularly, getting enough sleep, moving your body and taking breaks all help you manage pressure more effectively.
Looking after yourself can be even more important if you’re also managing a disability, long-term health condition or specific learning difference. You may be using extra energy to navigate study, assessments or daily routines, so building in rest and support is key.
The University’s Disability Advice and Guidance team can help with reasonable adjustments, study support and advice to help you manage your studies alongside your wellbeing.
Small, consistent habits often make a bigger difference than trying to change everything at once.
When responsibilities start to feel too much
Some stress is normal, especially during busy periods such as exams. But ongoing pressure without time to rest can lead to burnout, anxiety or low mood.
If you’re feeling exhausted, overwhelmed or stuck, that’s a sign to pause, reassess and reach out for support.
Practical ways to manage competing demands
Get clear on priorities
Write down what’s coming up and what matters most right now. Focus on what’s urgent first, then break tasks into smaller, manageable steps.
Set boundaries
You don’t have to say yes to everything. Saying no, whether to social plans or extra commitments, can help protect your time, energy and wellbeing.
Keep money in mind
Budgeting can help reduce stress later on. Planning ahead for essentials first can make it easier to manage your money across the whole term.
Make time for yourself
Even short breaks matter. Scheduling time to rest, move or do something you enjoy can help you reset and cope better with other responsibilities.
Know when to ask for help
You don’t have to manage everything alone. Support is part of being a student, not a last resort.
You might turn to:
- friends on your course or at home
- family
- the Student Experience team, or the Learning & Teaching Support Officers (LTSOs) in your School/Faculty
- Student Services
- your GP (You can register with Brownlow Health on campus, to help keep on top of your health whilst you're at University)
- Health Assured, the University’s Student Assistance Programme, which offers free, confidential support 24 hours a day.
You’re not expected to do everything perfectly
Every student’s situation is different, and balance looks different for everyone. What matters is recognising when something isn’t working and knowing that help is available.
Using the right support at the right time can help you stay well, succeed academically and make the most of your time at university.