It's 11 pm... You're drowning in work, feeling like you don't belong, and guilt won't stop whispering that you're failing at everything.
You're not alone. And you don't need another productivity app.
You need someone to say: "I understand. Let's work through this together."
The PhD Emotional Reality (That Nobody Talks About)
PhD research is demanding.
But the emotional toll?
That's what schools don't prepare you for.
The overwhelm.
The loneliness.
The imposter feelings.
The terror of failing.
The guilt, no matter what you choose.
These aren't personal failings.
They're not signs you're "not cut out for this." They're structural challenges that nearly every PhD student faces - but few talk about openly.
And when 11 pm hits and you're spiraling, there's nowhere to turn...
Meet Your PhD Emotions Check-in Template
A free, self-paced Notion template designed for the exact moments you need it most.
Here's what you'll get:
✓ Immediate validation - Recognition that your emotions are normal and common, backed by research
✓ Recognition of 5 emotional patterns - Identify which pattern you're experiencing right now
✓ 15-30 minute guidance - Practical, actionable steps you can complete tonight
✓ Accessible on mobile - Open it at 11 pm on your phone when you need support most
✓ Return anytime - Come back whenever you need a different pattern or emotional support
The 5 Patterns:
-
🌊 "I'm drowning in work and don't know where to start"
Paralyzed by overwhelm? Break the paralysis with a brain dump, one doable task, and a schedule. -
💔 "I'm so isolated and lonely in this journey"
Feeling alone even when surrounded by others? Understand PhD isolation and find one small connection step. -
🎭 "I feel like I don't belong here / I'm not smart enough"
Imposter syndrome screaming? Recognize the pattern, challenge the voice, reframe belonging. -
😰 "I'm terrified of failing or not finishing"
Fear paralyzing you? Separate the emotion from reality. Gather evidence of your actual progress. -
😔 "I feel guilty no matter what I'm doing"
Impossible competing priorities? Recognize the broken system, reframe success, give yourself permission.
How to Use This Template (3 Simple Steps)
Step 1: Duplicate to Your Notion Workspace
Click the link in the email you will receive once you click the button below. It takes 30 seconds. Your template stays private in your workspace.
Step 2: Open When You Need It
Feeling overwhelmed? Lonely? Terrified? Scroll to the pattern matching your experience right now.
Step 3: Work Through the Guidance
Read the validation. Follow the steps. Use the toggles to write your own reflections. You'll have a concrete action plan in 15-30 minutes.
That's it.
No complicated setup.
No learning curve.
Just immediate support designed for crisis moments.
FAQs
Q: Is this a substitute for therapy or professional mental health support?
A: No. This template is a first-aid kit - immediate support for common emotional patterns. If you're experiencing persistent mental health symptoms, suicidal thoughts, or distress that interferes with daily functioning, please reach out to university counseling, a therapist, or a crisis line.
Q: Do I need to be a Notion expert to use this?
A: Not at all. The template is pre-built and easy to navigate. If you've never used Notion, this is a great intro - and there's a simple instruction section to get you started.
Q: Can I customize it?
A: Absolutely. Once you duplicate it to your workspace, it's yours to modify as much as you want.