What a semester huh? Are you also feeling the burnout? Are you nights restless? Sad, irritable, and/or indifferent? Do you even care about that test? Does the journey to McMurran feel more like an ascent to Everest with broken glass in your shoes? Well, in that case, welcome to the 2nd half of spring semester burnout! This is an incredibly common feeling, and it’s time to be completely honest about how we’re all feeling right now.
The Malvern Behavioral Center in Philadelphia defines burnout among college students as “…when a student experiences chronic stress over an extended period of time. These students may develop burnout symptoms including fatigue, detachment, and an overall lack of interest in academics.” Symptoms include “over-engagement, reactive emotions, anxiety, lost energy and physical pain.” and it affects close to 80% of all college students in America.
It’s a very strong feeling among all of us, but speaking from the experience of a senior, burnout really blows. I know that the mix of job applications, internship applications, graduation stress, the fear of making sure you can graduate, clubs and getting those last classes finished is a ton of weight on your shoulders. We’re all being haunted by the big “What do you want to do with your life” question dangling over our heads like a pendulum. I have absolutely felt burnt from the inside out and it has made me very cranky and drained. I haven’t gotten enough sleep and I feel like a rat stuck in a maze. It’s a lot of feelings all at once, and all while I’m just trying to get this history paper done. Seems maddening? But also maybe it’s what you’re feeling too.
What’s the solution? Well there’s a plethora of things you can do. Stay hydrated, take breaks (ACTUAL breaks, do something that’s going to clear your mind), sleep a lot, attend a counseling session, go to a rage room and turn a door into a shape unrecognizable to man and stick to your set goals and deadlines. But of course every person’s burnout is different. The most important thing we can do is be honest with ourselves and our loved ones about what we’re feeling. It’s a hard thing to do but it’s a step forward. Whatever you may think, you aren’t alone here and it’s important we can vent those feelings in a safe space, whether in the Office of Counseling Services or your friend circle. Don’t hold onto these feelings internally. The comfort of having other people understand is a great step forward in dealing with burnout.
To all of my fellow peers who are burned out. Sleep well, drink water and be open with your loved ones. The end of the semester is almost here!
