Due to the barrage of assignments, tests, quizzes, and projects, school can oftentimes be overwhelming. Many students have experienced watching their work pile higher and higher and feel helpless to do anything about it. The impending sense of doom from too much stress sometimes contributes to burnout, a mental state characterized by exhaustion, increased negativity related to work, and worse performance (National Library of Medicine).
As opposed to just being lazy, where one is able to do the work but chooses not to, burnout is a condition where feelings like mental and physical tiredness or detachment from work, as well as symptoms like trouble concentrating or anxiety, prevent one from completing their work (WebMD). It is especially prevalent during midterms and finals season, where exams that are often one after another can easily make a student feel overwhelmed. The pressure put on students to do well on these important exams as well as the hours a lot of students put in to ensure they get a good grade can easily lead to burnout.
“I was always really tired and would want to do my work, but whenever I tried to, I would just sit there and not do anything,” says Tasnia Talukder, junior, “It often happens during exam season, especially because there’s always work I have to make up since it’s the end of the semester.” These weeks are notoriously difficult for students, with exams often alongside last-minute tests and projects. Other responsibilities, like clubs, AP exams, or out of school work, can contribute.
Navigating school without falling into the trap of burnout can be difficult, but there are steps one can take. According to the American Psychiatric Association, setting boundaries between one’s school or work and home is one of them. Even if there is an important exam the next day, it is important to spend an hour doing an enjoyable activity—it will make the time spent studying more effective. Mindfulness is another. During breaks, phones should be avoided; instead try a slower, more rewarding activity like reading, art, or even taking a walk. Another important strategy is taking care of yourself. Getting 7 to 9 hours of sleep, eating balanced meals, and maintaining exercise are things that can keep burnout at bay because they prevent the feeling that work is taking over one’s entire life.
If burnout occurs, finding help from others can be beneficial, according to WebMD. Friends, family, or even those who provide professional help can be valuable for talking about issues and getting further aid and support. Though a break from all work may not be possible, especially for students studying for their midterms or finals, cutting back on studying may be helpful—the number of hours spent studying isn’t as important as how those hours are spent, and burnout often causes less effective work. Make sure effective studying techniques are used to ensure a good grade on the test whilst maintaining physical and mental health.
As midterms approach, it’s important to remember these tips and make sure not to overlook mental health, as the consequences can make things even more difficult.
The BHA Post wishes any student taking midterms good luck!
