Tips for Avoiding Study Burnout
‘Study burnout’ is a concept used to define a state of physical and mental fatigue caused by stress or by feeling overwhelmed when students are not able to meet certain academic demands. According to researchers in the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, many cases of burnout result from students who procrastinate constantly, which leads to increased stress as unfinished assignments pile up. When ‘burnout’ progresses, the affected student significantly loses motivation and interest to continue studying. As well, this emotion leaves the student hopeless, less productive, effective, engaged, and decreases the brain’s ability to focus. Unfortunately, once you find yourself feeling burnt out, it is quite difficult to combat it. However, there are ways to prevent it: experts say that students must pay attention when feeling its symptoms so it can be stopped before it gets too far. Symptoms include, but are not limited to:
Sudden decrease in academic performance
Mental and physical exhaustion
Zero motivation
Hopelessness
Inability to concentrate
Lack of interest in educational topics
To avoid getting a burnout, it is highly recommended and important to maintain a balance between school work and down time. Researchers at the University of the People recommend dedicating a specific amount of time to your hobbies, and it is even more recommended to spend time surrounded by nature since it is proven to regulate stress levels. Second, spending time with your friends and family is key; it will contribute to your motivation for studying. Third is to have a good sleep schedule. The amount of sleep you have will definitely affect your performance for that day. Sleeping is one of the few major ways to let your brain rest and recharge. Finally, organize your time. Avoid procrastinating by dividing tasks throughout the week, or by making a calendar, since it will only lead to feeling stressed out. Look for techniques that will help you make the most of your time. The Pomodoro Technique is an amazing way to concentrate when busy, and it does allow you to have breaks in between to use your full potential and be as productive as you can. Get a to-do list and a timer. Set your timer for 25 minutes, and focus on a single task until the timer rings. When your session ends, mark off one pomodoro and record what you completed. Then enjoy a five-minute break. After four pomodoros, take a longer, more restorative 15-30 minute break. The following website is an amazing platform to follow this technique. Pomodoro Timer Most importantly, students should be able to recognize any of the symptoms mentioned above and ask for help to parents, family members, counselors and teachers to get professional help early to avoid a dead end.
Written by Gabriela B., Student Ambassador
