What's normal?

I was looking for some thoughts/insights into if I'm running under a "standard" level or I'm just swamped with school.

Mainly because my depression does NOT feel bad right now, I'm actually relatively happy although haven't had time for a social life. So I was wondering if I'm running at the level of a "normal" college student or under, because I can't seem to keep up with school.

I've been getting 8 hours of sleep, maybe a bit less and last night I got 9 because I was so exhausted. I know a lot of college students can survive on less sleep? more coffee? but even with 8 I'm getting exhausted by a few hours before bedtime to the point it's hard to do stuff.


here's a sample week (last week):

M: 11-12:15rehearsal, class 12:35-1:25, 3:30-5:30, I practice for 3-5 hours
T: 10-12:30 class, 4:30 meeting, practice 5 hours
W: class 10:30-2:30, 3:30-5:30, audit class 7:30-8:30 practice 2.5 hours
R: class 8:30-9:30, 12:30-2:30, 5-7, practice 4 hours
F: class 8:30-9:30, 12:30-1:30, rehearsal 2-3:30, another rehearsal 3:30-5:30, I have not practice yet because I'm so behind =(

I've had homework due every day starting on Wednesday, extra dress due to preparation for a performance and buying something expensive/drama going with it.

so I'm wondering if I should be at the end of my rope or if I'm working under level because of a health / mental issue and should call a doctor for fatigue issues Looking for other opinions. sorry this was long.

just my opinion but seems like you've got a lot on your plate. the rehearsal time seems to cause more load in your day. is this a necessary part of each day? not sure. being tired could come from being physically run down. bloodwork from your gp could rule that out or into the equation.
you're being productive. i know homework probably is included too.
another question, turq. how many credit hours are you taking? can you reduce that number next semester to allow for some breaks in your day?
oh and i think normal is quite subjective. having balance in our daily schedule contributes to good mental health, imo.

yes normal def is subjective =) This is my final semester, I'm taking 15 credit hours but the number is relatively meaningless in my opinion as far as what needs to get done.
The rehearsals are necessary - they're like doing some homework for class basically.

thank you so much for your thoughts ((((madisgram)))))

I agree with madisgrams good advice. Honestly you sound extremely over loaded and I would be tired too. I also agree you should get a physical with blood work done - maybe you have low iron etc. You may not be getting a sound sleep - maybe snoring or waking up. I have a similar problem - I feel tired even after a good 8 hrs but I have a stressful life from an unresolved problem, that weighs me down in my mind - stress is exhausting even if a persons not working. Next thought is maybe its a med making you tired or perhaps you're not eating the best.

http://psychcentral.com/stress/
http://www.helpguide.org/mental/stress_signs.htm

I agree with madisgram and lynnP. Just wondering if you are eating right?

I also remember from my years of performing, that the rehersals are exhausting both mentally & physically.....really like a work out & so is practicing. If you are like me, being a perfectionist in performing is required & that in itself is exhausting.

Then if you add to that, a restless sleep even if it is 8 hours & maybe not eating as well. When I am on the go & having to be at rehearsal & putting time into things I have to do, sometimes I even forget to eat until my stomach growls at me & then I tell it to WAIT until I can get to it, then I end up forgetting to eat sometimes (well, more times than not).

That last semester is tough & know you have your senior recital coming up if your school is typical which I don't know about you, but when I have something stressful that is coming up, I stress over it long before it really hits me.

You have so much going on along with taking classes that require homework.....you will have time for social life after you graduate. I wouldn't even worry about that at this point of time or throw it into the equation.

Taking a good vitamin (even a pre natal one because they have the highest quality contents) & omega-3 high mg EPA/DHA fish oil also helps with any depression that might be floating around.....& definitely it might be good to have some blood work done. The stress you are going through the final semester will effect things like the cortasol levels & things that can effect the thyroid until you get through the stress & settle into life after graduation. Your GP can suggest any supplements that might be helpful & get you through.

All good thoughts from above also.....to give you ideas to sort through & see what might fit your situation.

Good luck with your final semester. Know how tough, but how rewarding it will be when you graduate.