Our reality has changed so much that sometimes it is hard to differentiate between the real and digital worlds, especially with VR technologies.
Younger generations struggle the hardest with staying attached to reality.
Digital platforms and tools often suggest accessibility and flexibility for students, enabling learners from different parts of the world to join virtual communities. However, as expected, this shift brings new challenges for us. In an educational setting, the situation is more or less stable because you know why you are here and what you want to get. Still, the digital environment has its impact on mental health and addressing it on time is critical for learning success.
Engaging in online learning activities can lead to feelings of mental burnout and isolation. This, in turn, makes it vital to explore the most effective ways to promote mental health and wellness in eLearning. In addition, a study that included 753 participants with an eLearning experience showcased that a majority of students, 58%, were dealing with increased stress levels during COVID-19. Of course, these statistics may be biased because we were all stressed because of the pandemic. Now let’s take a holistic approach to digital transformation and how it affects mental health.
How Does Online Learning Affect Mental Health?
Online learning, like everything in existence, has both positive and negative influences on the mental health of students.
Positive Impacts
Flexibility: Online learning allows students to learn at their own pace and schedule, which can reduce the stress associated with commuting and rigid class schedules.
Personalized Learning Environments: Students can create comfortable study spaces, which can enhance their learning experience and reduce anxiety.
However, when it comes to the negative impact, it is important to mention that eLearning can result in a lack of personal interactions and can lead to feeling isolated and disconnected.
Negative Impacts
Isolation: The lack of face-to-face interaction can lead to feelings of loneliness and disconnection.
Mental Burnout: Constant screen time and the demand for self-directed learning can lead to mental fatigue and burnout.
Physical Health Issues: Prolonged screen use can cause eye strain and other physical health issues, contributing to overall stress.
Common Mental Health Issues in Online Learning
As mentioned above, online learning offers flexibility and accessibility to learners from all around the world. However, there is a high likelihood of having severe mental health issues as a result of eLearning practices. Here are some common mental health issues that can arise due to lengthy online learning experiences.
Anxiety and Procrastination: Online learning can contribute to procrastination and anxiety among online learners. This is particularly true near deadlines.
Isolation: The absence of real-life face-to-face interaction can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation and can significantly impact mental well-being.
Work-Life Balance Issues: Blurred or no boundaries between study and personal life can create difficulties in managing responsibilities, leading to stress and burnout.
Excessive Screen Use: Prolonged screen time is associated with eye strain, headaches, and decreased focus, all of which can negatively impact mental health.
Mental Burnout: Managing various responsibilities and completing major assignments remotely can lead to stress and eventual burnout.
Make sure to take care of your mental health by taking breaks from time to time to regain focus and recharge.
Strategies for Promoting Wellness in Online Learning
It is crucial for eLearners to keep in mind that online learning is full of challenges. Thus, make sure to be aware of some strategies and tips that can enhance wellness in online learning.
Have a Fixed Routine
Make sure to set your daily routine to have a structure of your academic day in your mind. In addition, dedicate some time to exercise, study, relax, and sleep. This will help you manage all your tasks and assignments in a more balanced way.
Prioritize Your Physical Health
Prioritizing mental health is essential, and so is physical health. Make sure to engage in regular physical exercises, maintain balanced meals, and get enough sleep. You can consider taking short breaks between your classes and practicing a 10-minute yoga session, for instance.
Maintain Social Connection
Although studying from home is convenient, especially for introverts, do not isolate yourself from others. Make sure to create an online collaborative learning environment with your peers as well as interact with family members and friends. These actions will significantly help you have a sense of community during the online collaborative learning experience.
These are some of the common strategies for maintaining mental well-being in online collaborative learning as well as in eLearning in general.
Digital Resources for Mental Health Support in Online Learning
With the rise of advanced technological innovations, learners must explore useful tools and resources for mental health support. Software applications and tools regarding mental health, counseling services, and virtual support communities can assist in coping with stress and promote well-being. Specifically, virtual support communities, social media groups, or forums provide an opportunity to share your experience and seek advice if needed. Thus, integrating such digital resources can be critical for students' mental health maintenance. Here are more resources to consider.
Mental Health Apps
Headspace: Offers guided meditation and mindfulness exercises.
Calm: Provides relaxation techniques and sleep aids.
Virtual Counseling
BetterHelp: Online counseling with licensed therapists.
Talkspace: Therapy sessions via text, voice, or video.
Support Communities
7 Cups: Emotional support through anonymous conversations.
ReachOut Forums: Peer support and resources for mental health.
Creating a Collaborative Online Learning Environment for Mental Health
If you are an educator or an instructor who creates a collaborative online learning environment, this section is for you.
Encourage Group Work: Facilitate group projects and discussion forums to promote interaction and reduce isolation.
Foster Empathy and Respect: Cultivate a supportive and inclusive environment where students respect diverse perspectives and backgrounds.
Provide Mental Health Resources: Ensure students have access to counseling services and mental health resources.
Additional Strategies for Educators
Frequent Check-ins: Regularly check in with students to address any issues or concerns.
Flexible Deadlines: Offer flexible deadlines to accommodate students' varied schedules and reduce stress.
Workshops on Time Management: Provide workshops to help students manage their time effectively.
Conclusion
Education is vital, and so is mental health. Sometimes it is hard to set the correct priorities when you have deadlines and tasks, but remember that only stable mental health can consume information and transform it into a skill, which in turn will make you a professional. Seek support if you can’t cope with issues alone. Remember, there are always people—your family, friends, and professionals—to help you.