As we approach the end of the school year, many students might be starting to feel excited for summer and ready for a break from school. While there have been many benefits to having everyone back on campus this year, for a lot of students, it has been a difficult transition back to school and continued Covid concerns have led to frequent policy and protocol changes that have continued to make this school year challenging and difficult to adjust back to. Many students - as well as teachers, staff, and parents - might be feeling overwhelmed and fatigued from the year and may even be experiencing some level of burnout.
Burnout is emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress. As stress continues, you begin to lose interest and motivation. While some stress and reduced motivation is to be expected near the end of the school year, here are some signs that you might be experiencing a greater level of burnout:
- Feeling fatigued all the time
- Lower energy and enthusiasm
- Loss of motivation
- Decreased cognitive performance
- Increased avoidance
- More easily frustrated, irritated, annoyed
- Social withdrawal
- Reduced efforts to care for self (lack of sleep, grooming, eating routines)
>> Here are some strategies to combat Burnout as we enter into the last month of school. <<
Practice Time Management:
o Identify priorities, cut down on low priority activities
o Limit amount of study time per day
o Set time constraints around tasks
o Set breaks for yourself in daily routines
o Use a “closed” to-do list (limited list of to-dos within a certain time period)
o Avoid interruptions and distractions (put down those phones!)
o Schedule personal time - structure in time for things you enjoy or time to do nothing
Find ways to Re-charge:
o Set boundaries for yourself and prioritize your needs
o Self-Appreciation - celebrate and praise yourself for even small accomplishments
o Practice healthy lifestyle choices – get enough sleep, exercise, drink water, eat well
o Lean on your support system – spend time with friends and family
o Practice relaxation techniques – deep breathing, mindfulness practices, stretching, yoga
If you would like to meet with your school counselor - CLICK HERE
· Suicide Prevention Lifeline: (800) 273-8255
· Crisis Text Line: text the word "HOME" to 741-741
· Didi Hirsch Mental health Services: (877) 727-4747
· L.A. County Mental Health Services: (800) 854-7771
· The Trevor Project: (866) 488-7386
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