Select Page
Reading Time: 2 minutes

With overextended schedules, distracting media, heavy course loads, and financial pressure, it’s no wonder that college students are experiencing burnout. What is burnout? It’s a state of mental, physical, and emotional exhaustion caused by prolonged stress. If you’re battling fatigue, feelings of emptiness, and a lack motivation, we are here for you. Read on to learn more about the symptoms of burnout and how you can avoid it. 

Symptoms of Burnout

Though burn out is not a medical condition, it can have a serious effect on your mental and physical health. Some symptoms include depression, irritability, excessive stress, fatigue, insomnia, alcohol misuse, and high blood pressure.

Burn out may look different for various people. Some may feel too tired to care about their classes or their personal life. Others may be overwhelmed by feelings of uncertainty and self-doubt. No matter how it may affect you, there are ways to avoid burnout. 

How to Prevent Burnout

Be honest about your limitations

Take a moment to step back and reflect. What sort of changes can you make to improve your stress level? Do you need to cut down your course load? Are you taking on too many responsibilities at your part-time job? If your life is overwhelming, there’s always time to adjust. The first step to avoiding burnout is identifying the parts of your life that are contributing to your distress. 

Ask for help

If you suspect that you’re experiencing burnout, reach out to your support system or make an appointment with your college counselor. Examine your options and discuss various actions that could improve your current environment. Some examples: adjust your study routine, switch your classes, sign up for therapy, change your major, or even transfer schools. 

Pursue your passion

Often times, burn out occurs when people are working hard for a cause they don’t feel passionate about. Though college may be challenging sometimes, your classes should bring you joy and excitement. If they aren’t, you may want to reevaluate. Living in alignment with your interests and values should revive your energy and zest for life. 

Get some sleep

Sleep deprivation is a primary symptom of burnout. Prioritize your sleep schedule with a routine that allows you to unplug, unwind, and relax before bed. Try for 7-10 hours of uninterrupted sleep. 

Breathe

Every system in your body relies on oxygen in your bloodstream. Effective breathing can reduce stress levels, support mental clarity, and even strengthen your immune system. Dedicate time each day to focusing on your breath, even if it’s just for a minute. Consider choosing activities that allow you to tune into your body and breath. This includes singing, swimming, running, yoga, and meditation. 

Hopefully with these tips, you can prevent burnout and tackle your college career with confidence. Remember, taking care of your physical and emotional health should be a top priority. Recall the saying, “you can’t pour from an empty cup,” meaning that you can’t put forth your best effort without taking care of yourself first. For more information regarding mental health, here are some resources