One of the biggest problems facing students nowadays is burnout. We live in a culture of constant work and hustle, but more often than not, we never take the time to properly break and pace ourselves. We study, break, study, and then wonder why after every session and every day we only become more and more exhausted.
“Burnout is about resentment and anger, usually at oneself for not being able to live up to one’s own expectations.” – Herbert Freudenberger
Burnout is a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress. It can affect anyone, but students are particularly vulnerable due to the high levels of stress and pressure they often experience. Burnout can lead to a variety of negative outcomes, including poor academic performance, difficulty with personal relationships, and decreased overall well-being.
If you’re a student who is struggling with burnout, here are some strategies you can try to help alleviate your symptoms and improve your overall well-being:
1. Take breaks
It’s important to give yourself time to rest and recharge. Make sure to schedule regular breaks throughout the day, such as a 10-minute break every hour. Try to take at least one day off each week, where you can relax and engage in activities you enjoy, such as spending time with friends or participating in a hobby.
And note, when you take a short break, don’t go on social media or on your phone. But actually, step outside, talk to some family, or go get a quick bite to eat.
2. Practice self-care
Make sure to prioritize your physical and mental health. This might mean exercising regularly, such as going for a daily walk or run, getting enough sleep, and eating a healthy diet. You should also make time for activities that bring you joy, such as reading a book or painting.
3. Set boundaries
Set limits on the amount of time you spend studying or working, and make sure to stick to them. For example, you might decide to only study for a maximum of 4 hours per day. As discussed in the previous post, by ‘blocking’ your time, you ensure that your task doesn’t unnecessarily take longer than it should.
It’s also important to set boundaries with your peers and professors and communicate your needs and limitations. This might involve telling your friends that you need to study and can’t hang out this weekend, or emailing your professor to let them know you can’t meet at a certain time.
4. Seek support
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to reach out to someone for help. This could be a friend, family member, or mental health professional. You might find it helpful to talk to someone about your feelings or share your struggles. It’s important to have a support system in place to help you through difficult times.
A survey conducted by the American Psychological Association found that people who seek out mental health support, such as counselling or therapy, are more likely to report lower levels of burnout and higher levels of well-being. This highlights the importance of seeking help if you’re struggling with burnout.
5. Practice relaxation techniques
There are many different relaxation techniques that can help you manage stress, including prayer, meditation, deep breathing, or even light exercise such as a walk. Experiment with different techniques to find what works best for you. For example, you might try a guided meditation app or spend a few minutes each day practising deep breathing exercises.
Personally, I find the best way to relax is by separating oneself from the noise and clutter of electronic devices and going on a quiet walk.
6. Take breaks from social media
Spending too much time on social media can contribute to feelings of burnout and overwhelmed. Try taking a break from social media, or limit your usage to a certain amount of time each day. For example, you might decide to only check social media once in the morning, once in the afternoon, and once in the evening.
7. Seek out healthy ways to cope with stress
It’s natural to feel stressed from time to time, but it’s important to find healthy ways to cope with that stress. This might involve talking to someone about your feelings, participating in a relaxing activity like prayer or meditation, or simply taking a walk to clear your head. You might also find it helpful to write in a journal or participate in a stress-reducing hobby like gardening.
Conclusion
By implementing these strategies, you can help alleviate burnout and improve your overall well-being. Remember that it’s okay to ask for help if you’re struggling and that it’s important to prioritize your physical and mental health.
Anthony, from the Kalibre Post.
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