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The college experience is often an ongoing juggling act where you’re managing academics, a social life, extracurriculars, and maybe a part-time job. While all this can be fun and challenging, it can also get tiring and stressful, especially when big assignments come due or you’re prepping for finals.
While it’s important to persevere, it’s also important to be aware of burnout. This is a condition that can occur all too easily when high levels of stress and exhaustion continue too long—to the point where they begin to interfere with your physical, mental, and behavioral health.
To prevent stress and fatigue from escalating into burnout, it’s helpful to set aside some time each day to allow your mind and body to recover. Make self-care a priority by eating well, getting regular exercise, and adequate sleep. Try to spend time outdoors, especially in nature.
Be aware of the symptoms of burnout, which can include:
- The need to “let go” of goals and relationships that were important to you.
- A loss of interest in your social and extracurricular activities.
- A lack of motivation to carry out everyday tasks, including taking care of yourself.
- Greater difficulty maintaining grades or meeting deadlines.
- Greater irritability and other behavioral challenges, such as misusing drugs, alcohol, or food.
- A sense of cynicism or feeling like a failure.
If you notice these symptoms, don’t ignore them. Instead, act before they escalate into something more debilitating, like depression, addiction, or physical illnesses. These tips can help:
- Take steps to remove yourself from the situation and decompress.
- Evaluate your situation. Sometimes burnout can stem from not pursuing the right academic path.
- Reach out to friends, family, teachers, or academic counselors. They can help you evaluate your situation and provide direction and emotional support.
Keep in mind your Assistance Program is also here for support, with services to help strengthen mental health, physical health, financial health, and relationships. To learn more or to access these services, contact Member Support.
