How can I tell whether I am actually falling behind or just feeling overwhelmed?
Start by checking the syllabus or learning-management system for assignments, attendance, and exam dates. Repeatedly missing work or classes, being unable to progress because you do not understand the required material, or falling below the expected level on quizzes suggests that you may actually be behind. If you are completing work on schedule and broadly understand it but still feel intense anxiety, you may be overwhelmed rather than academically behind. Keep a brief record, and if the feeling continues, speak with the instructor or an academic adviser.
Key points
- Check deadlines, attendance, exam dates, and assignment progress using concrete information.
- Use quizzes or practice problems to test your understanding.
- Do not rely on anxiety alone; keep a record of what is happening.
- Early consultation can help with both genuine delays and strong anxiety.
Things to check
- The ways to check progress and the available consultation services vary by university, faculty, and course, so check the official course information.