There’s no denying that college students also face a mental health crisis. An increasing number of students are now reporting experiencing stress in school. Unsurprisingly, burnout remains to a major problem in college. But what exactly is burnout and how can students avoid burnout in college?
To help clear some of the doubts in your mind, burnout happens when people experience chronic stress that leaves them exhausted and drained. Keep in mind students react to burnout differently, Some make do with imposter syndrome and consider dropping out of school. Others push themselves harder to succeed, at the cost of their mental health.
It is in your best interest to understand the warring signs of burnout in college students. Actually, students who recognize these signs can take proactive steps to improve their mental health. Some of the warning signs of burnout include feeling exhausted, being less enthusiastic about school, a decline in academic abilities, and increased anxiety.
Academic burnout can feel like an overwhelming issue without an easy solution, but making a few changes here and there can have a significant impact. For a start, you should learn to say no. Keep in mind part of avoiding academic burnout narrows to managing your responsibilities. Taking an extra assignment or volunteering to organize events can leave students drained.
It doesn’t end at that since you should also focus on time management. College students tend to take on ambitious side hustles or major or projects without considering how much time they will take. Time management skills help students work efficiently and effectively. Allow more time than you need, and avoid procrastinating.
Incoming students in particular need to give themselves time to adapt to college, as should students taking remote classes for the first time. Try as much as possible to avoid carrying the stress of assignments or deadlines into other activities. Give yourself a mental break from academics so that you can return feeling fully refreshed. Keep in mind there is nothing wrong with asking for help as it as the potential to change your life for the better.