By: Josie Mojica

College can be noted as a time of self-discovery, growth, and exciting opportunities. However, the reality for many students can be overwhelming stress, relentless pressure, and the constant juggle of academic, social, and personal responsibilities. I’ve come to know burnout during my academic journey very well, so I’m right there with you! This relentless grind can lead to burnout, a state of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion that can significantly impact your well-being and academic success. If you're feeling burnt out, know that you're not alone, and there are ways to navigate through this challenging time. In this blog post we will discuss burnout signs, causes, self-care strategies, evaluating priorities, and how to seek additional support. 

How do I know if i’m experiencing burnout?

Burnout can manifest in various ways, but common signs include persistent fatigue, lack of motivation, decreased performance, feelings of negativity, and physical symptoms like headaches or stomach aches. Sometimes burnout symptoms can look similar to anxiety and depressive symptoms. It's essential to recognize these signs early on and acknowledge that experiencing burnout doesn't mean you're weak or incapable—it's a natural response to chronic stress.

What causes burnout?

Identifying the root causes of your burnout can help you address them effectively. Academic pressure, unrealistic expectations (either self-imposed or external), financial worries, social isolation, self-defeating beliefs, and poor time management are just a few common triggers. According to one research article, freshman students may be at a higher risk of burnout due to adjusting from the change of secondary school. It is beneficial to reflect on what aspects of college life are contributing to your stress and overwhelm. 

Reevaluating Priorities

It's essential to reassess your priorities and make adjustments to your workload and commitments to prevent burnout from recurring. This might involve scaling back on extracurricular activities, seeking academic accommodations if needed, or reevaluating your long-term goals and expectations. Remember that it's okay to reprioritize and focus on what truly matters to you, even if it means letting go of certain obligations or expectations. I have learned with many college students that creating obtainable goals is often the first step in re evaluating priorities. Ask yourself, “Who do I want to become?” “What steps do I need to take to become that person?” We tend to over complicate priorities and goals due to unrealistic expectations. 

Self-Care Strategies

Prioritizing self-care is crucial for combating burnout. While it may feel counterintuitive when you're overwhelmed with tasks, taking time to recharge is essential for your well-being and academic success. This can include simple activities like getting enough sleep, eating nutritious meals, exercising regularly, and practicing mindfulness or relaxation techniques. Setting boundaries and learning to say no to additional commitments can also help prevent burnout from escalating. Finding balance in college can be challenging, but it's not impossible. Experiment with different time management techniques, such as creating a realistic schedule, and breaking tasks into manageable chunks.

Where can I find support in Tampa, Fl?

You don't have to navigate college burnout alone. Reach out to your university's counseling services or student support resources for guidance and assistance. If you are located in the Tampa area, contact Christian Counseling of Tampa to schedule with Josie Mojica. Talking to a counselor can provide you with valuable coping strategies, help you explore underlying issues contributing to your burnout, and offer a supportive space to express your feelings without judgment. Additionally, connecting with peers who understand what you're going through can offer comfort and validation.

Conclusion

College burnout is a common experience, but it doesn't have to define your college journey. By recognizing the signs, understanding the causes, prioritizing self-care, seeking support, and reevaluating priorities, you can navigate through this challenging time and emerge stronger and more resilient. Remember to be gentle with yourself and celebrate small victories along the way. You're capable of overcoming burnout and thriving in college with the right tools and support!

Additional reads:

3 Reasons Why Prioritizing Your Mental Health As a College Student is Crucial

What is Anxiety?

Building Healthy Relationships in College

Exam Anxiety and Strategies for College Students

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