Handling Academic Pressure and Avoiding Burnout

Classes and school can become overwhelming very fast. Nearly all students will have experiences high stress at some point over their academic career. Developing strategies to respond when this happens is crucial to having a successful and sustainable learning journey.

What is Burnout

Burnout refers to a form of exhaustion that can set in when students are unable to meet the perceived burden of academic or social stressors. Burnout can lead to anxiety, depression, poor concentration, social isolation, and fatigue. Working to build stamina after “burning out” can be very difficult, so avoiding it and building healthy strategies is the ultimate goal.

How to Avoid Burnout

1. Plan:

A large cause contributing factor of burnout is tied to feelings of being overwhelmed or behind as it comes to homework, assignments, or other goals. As such, creating strategies to manage deadlines can alleviate a large chunk of stress. This can look like having an agenda or planner to write down assignments and other things on your to-do list.

2. Have outlets

School can be a lot at times, and that’s okay! It is normal to need a break or escape at times. Ensuring that you have a safe space or place to go that is separate from academic work or other stress is crucial to building sustainable habits. Things like a fun hobby, a sport, reading, or going for walks are all potential options! There is no definitive answer for an individual – do what feels right for you!

3. Manage your time

Finding ways to sustainably manage your workload are crucial in avoiding exhaustion! Using a planner or agenda, find ways to block out time for work. If you’re someone who needs breaks, build that in! Something like the Pomodoro Method will help maximize your study time by giving you structured time off. Rather than studying for hours on end, trying to break up your time with other activities (like going for a walk, eating a snack, etc.) can help limit feelings of being overwhelmed.

4. Communicate

If you’re behind, that’s okay! Instead of stressing about what your teacher or leader will say, email them! Let them know where you are at and see if they can help you make a plan to catch up. Keeping them in the loop can only help to ensure that you take advantage of your resources.

5. Have an outside person to talk to

Whether it be a friend, teacher, or parent, having someone to talk to about your feelings is crucial to voice your emotions and worries. This could look like a quick conversation at dinner, or a block of time. You’re not in it alone! Rely on those around you to achieve your best.

At the end of the day, there is no one size fits all solution for everyone. The above strategies are things that may help you but give yourself time and grace to figure out what works for you. As always, RRA is here to work with you to make study plans that will support and structure your time.