It's more common than you might think
Have you ever heard of Stanford Duck Syndrome (SDS)? The term was coined at Stanford University to describe students who appear calm and collected on the surface while frantically struggling beneath the surface, much like a duck gliding effortlessly across a pond while its feet paddle furiously underwater. This phenomenon highlights the pressure students often face to project an image of success and composure, even when they are experiencing significant stress and anxiety.
Understanding the signs of SDS is crucial for both self-awareness and supporting peers. Key indicators include:
Constant overwhelm: Students may feel perpetually overwhelmed by their academic workload, extracurricular activities, and social obligations. Despite maintaining a composed exterior, they might be experiencing high levels of anxiety and stress.
Perfectionism: An intense drive for perfection can lead students to set unrealistic standards for themselves. This often results in an inability to accept mistakes or failures, contributing to increased stress.
Isolation: Individuals experiencing SDS might withdraw from social interactions, fearing that others will see through their façade of calmness. They may avoid discussing their struggles, believing they are alone in their feelings.
Physical symptoms: Chronic stress can manifest physically. Symptoms like headaches, fatigue, insomnia, and digestive issues are common among students dealing with excessive stress.
It’s important to note that, while SDS is not a mental health condition, managing it requires a multifaceted approach that includes self-care, seeking support, and fostering a healthy academic environment. Here are some strategies to consider…
Acknowledge your feelings: It's essential to recognise and accept your feelings of stress and anxiety. Acknowledging these emotions is the first step towards addressing them effectively.
Seek support: Don't hesitate to reach out for help. Talking to friends, family, or a mental health professional can provide relief and perspective. If you need counselling support, the Counselling and Wellness team are always ready to help.
Practise self-care: Prioritise self-care by engaging in activities that relax and rejuvenate you. This can include exercise, hobbies, meditation, or simply taking regular breaks from studying.
Set realistic goals: Avoid setting unattainable goals. Break down tasks into manageable steps and set achievable objectives. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small.
Time management: Effective time management can alleviate feelings of overwhelm. Use planners or digital tools to organise your schedule, ensuring you allocate time for both work and relaxation.
Challenge perfectionism: Learn to accept that perfection is unattainable. Embrace the idea that mistakes are a natural part of learning and growth. Practise self-compassion and be kind to yourself.
Stanford Duck Syndrome is more common than you might think. Many students face similar struggles and feel the pressure to appear flawless.
Have you ever had the thought, “Everyone seems to be doing great except me”? Understanding that you are not alone is a reminder that we all struggle at times (even if we don’t show it…) and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
"Remember, you have been criticizing yourself for years, and it hasn't worked. Try approving of yourself and see what happens." ~ Louise L. Hay
