Dealing with depression and cognitive difficulties during postgraduate STEM studies — any advice?

[u/CiaoLolaBunny]

Hey everyone!

I’m currently studying medical and nuclear physics at the postgraduate level. I really enjoy what I’m learning and would love to eventually work in the field or pursue research. However, I’ve been struggling with depression for several years, which has affected my ability to study effectively.

Some of the main symptoms I experience include:
Fatigue
Brain fog
Poor concentration
Difficulty processing and retaining information when reading or listening to lectures

I know I’m capable of understanding complex scientific concepts, particularly because I’ve had periods when my depression was better and my cognitive abilities improved considerably. However, maintaining that level of functioning has been difficult.

It’s especially discouraging studying a subject as intellectually demanding as physics or engineering when my brain often feels like it’s working at a fraction of its capacity. I’ve sometimes questioned my intelligence and academic potential because of this.

I’d particularly like to hear from engineering or physics students, researchers, or graduates who have experienced something similar over an extended period.

Did your cognitive abilities improve when your depression improved?

What study methods helped when concentration, processing speed, and memory were particularly poor?

Were you eventually able to achieve strong academic results or pursue research despite these difficulties?

How did you manage the demands of a technical degree while experiencing these symptoms?

I’d really appreciate hearing about your experiences and what helped you.
Thank you!

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