How perfectionism can impact students and what help is available

Setting high standards for yourself can support academic and personal fulfilment. It may be why you made it to the University of St Andrews.  

But these high standards cause problems when they prevent us from completing goals and academic work.  

Perfectionism is a result of anxiety and worry about not meeting our high standards. It can lead to avoidance, procrastination and self-criticism. 

Often, students who struggle with perfectionism will think about work and deadlines in unhelpful ways. This could be anticipating negative outcomes, ignoring your own past achievements, or thinking that if you don’t know everything then you know nothing.  

Managing unhelpfully high standards you have set yourself can help you feel less anxious and adapt to challenges. 

How the University can help 

Student Services offer a range of help including specialist support and resources for your wellbeing and mental health.  

Student Services frequently run groups on managing perfectionism.

Other places to find help 

The Centre for Clinical Interventions offers resources and workbooks for managing perfectionism.