I remembered myself as the girl who loved school, got straight A’s, and was constantly motivated to do better than I had done previously. It was always such a rewarding feeling to prove my capabilities to my teachers and parents. It felt so easy and natural back then. Now, in my third year of college, feeling drowned by school more than ever, and surrounded by the devastating effects of social unrest and a global pandemic, motivation seems out of reach these days.
In the last few weeks, I struggled to wake up for class, and even when I was able to, I found myself disinterested. I found more comfort in napping than socializing. I was overeating as a coping mechanism. And despite the feelings of utter failure and wanting those feelings to go away, I continued to let myself fall into what seemed like a bottomless pit of defeat.
It took me a little over a month to start noticing how truly drained I felt; how out of control life seemed, and how yet, I didn’t feel like doing anything about it. I began doing some research and came across the word many of us might be all too familiar with in this time and age: burnout.
Burnout is a feeling characterized by detachment, emotional drainage, helplessness, and dulled emotions. It can be caused by an overwhelming amount of stress, which can really be rooted in any part of your life whether that be work, school, or social. When someone lacks a support system, is constantly doing work that seems pointless, or doesn’t feel recognized for their efforts, they can be at risk for burnout. The only way to deal with it is to acknowledge it, learn to manage it, and make an effort to continue with better habits. The top three things I’ve begun to do that have seemed to remove me from my funk, even in the slightest, are listed below.
1. Confiding in your support system
I saw a quote once that said, “If you’re not speaking it, you’re storing it. And that gets heavy.” I know it can be scary, or even feel burdensome to talk to the people around you. Trust me though, they care so much that they’d prefer you speak about it with them than to let it eat away at you. Whether your support system is your significant other, your parent, your best friend, or your pet, don’t be afraid to ask for help.
2. Making a list of priorities
Find the time for the things most important to you without stretching yourself too thin. Set aside time to focus on your responsibilities like school and work, but never forget that your own physical and mental health is important too. Make time to visit your parents and grandparents. Hang out with your friends. Go on a hike. Take a break from social media to really just be alone with yourself. You’ll find some clarity in the quiet, I promise.
3. Living a healthier lifestyle
As much as I hate to admit it, I have felt so much better since joining the gym. Starting is always the hardest part, but once you’re in it and feeling healthier, your spirits will begin to raise. Eat a diet with leafy greens, drink lots of water, exercise daily (even if it’s just a walk outside for some sunlight, or to feel the breeze on your face). You will feel the difference in time.
Keep moving forward. Keep doing amazing things. I know it’s hard right now, but it won’t be forever.
References
https://www.helpguide.org/articles/stress/burnout-prevention-and-recover…