Of course, my concern is more about having a suitable work environment. I do get work done, but I am often interrupted at home, with little space to hide away and concentrate. I don't want to sound like a moaner, but I am much more productive at the library, I can get work done at home, and I do, but it also adds to the isolation.

I am new to this forum and I apologise for doubling up on threads.

I have been struggling a lot lately. I have passed my upgrade with flying colours, and have started my second year. However, I feel like I am underperforming. I have no idea what I am doing drafting my first chapter, and with my next supervision coming up imposter Syndrome is kicking in. I know my topic is good, I wouldn't have won a scholarship otherwise. But with little money for getting to the library etc I feel I am not getting enough done.

I am a history PhD and if anyone knows a good PhD study guide for history PhDs with advice on chapter drafting/structure that would be helpful. So stressed.

Help!

I am in my first year of a fully-funded PhD. Despite having won a scholarship, I am struggling to pay rent and keep up with the bills living in London. My partner and I moved back to the UK from Berlin, this was a choice we both made (perhaps it was a little naive considering the current political climate) - my partner is European. She has yet to secure a job also. Anyway I have always wanted to do my PhD, and the funding was such a blessing. I am currently looking for work to bump up my monthly income - I have an interview to work as a tutor with the Brilliant Club - but I cannot even afford the train ticket to attend the interview.

I have been thinking a great deal about what I want from life, what I want for me an my partner. More than me she is destined to be an academic, I could be happy doing something else I am sure. So to conclude my professional and existential crisis - I am thinking about leaving my studies to get a job that pays what we need to have a less stressful future, and a family etc, and be able to survive more comfortably. But I cannot make the decision so easily. I worked so hard to get to where I am. I worked three jobs whilst I did my MA part-time so I could pay the tuition fees, I really didn't want to have to do the same for my PhD.

Of course, the other concern is my mental health which has begun deteriorating once again. I know this is a problem throughout academia. It limits my focus and motivation, and find I struggle to produce good work as a result. I know a lot of people suffer the same. I think it is important we show that no-one is alone in this respect. My though are with anyone who feels the same pressures.

Anyway I cannot decide what to do. Any advice?

S