As the semester progresses and academic demands escalate, many students at SNU find themselves teetering on the edge of burnout. Recognizing the signs of burnout becomes crucial for addressing its onset and implementing effective coping mechanisms. In a recent dialogue with students, including Brisa Lopez and Isabelle Smith, their experiences shed light on how they recognize, manage, and navigate through academic burnout.
When asked about identifying a burnout episode, Lopez shared, “I start to recognize it whenever I stop wanting to show up for classes. It’s like an excessive complaining, and not even the presence of friends motivates me anymore.” Smith echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the struggle to balance academic commitments with extracurricular activities and social life, highlighting the dilemma of prioritizing grades over mental well-being.
Lopez emphasized the significance of not overcommitting, stating, “It’s about not overcommitting to things I know I can’t handle.” Both students communicated the importance of allocating time for self-care and introspection, whether through spending time alone or engaging in spiritual practices. Lopez found solace confiding in her faith, stating, “Being able to put trust in God helps me accept things beyond my control.” Smith added to this by saying, “I think leaning on the Lord and friends during seasons of burnout is so important to maintaining a healthy mindset.” Smith finds solace in conversations with her parents, who offer understanding and guidance based on their own experiences. Additionally, she prioritizes spiritual practices, such as reading her Bible or engaging in devotions before tackling challenging assignments, finding comfort in the belief that she is not alone in overcoming obstacles.
Both students stressed the role of community and support systems in navigating academic challenges at SNU. While some found comfort in supportive friends and mentors, others highlighted the resources provided by the university, such as academic support services and counseling. “Having a rational human being next to you who can offer different perspectives is invaluable,” Lopez expressed.
Maintaining a balance between academic demands and personal life is crucial, especially during stressful periods like finals. Lopez and Smith emphasized the importance of effective time management and learning to say no to additional commitments when necessary. Utilizing digital tools for scheduling and prioritizing tasks, along with rewarding oneself for completing goals, emerged as effective strategies to stay motivated amidst overwhelming academic pressure.
When asked for tips on staying motivated, Lopez and Smith highlighted the power of reward systems and positive reinforcement. “Romanticizing the tasks and rewarding oneself afterward can serve as a powerful motivator,” Lopez suggested. By associating studying with enjoyable activities or treats, they found themselves more incentivized to stay focused and productive.
The insights shared by Lopez and Smith underscore the importance of recognizing and addressing academic burnout. By prioritizing self-care, seeking support, and finding balance, students can navigate the challenges of academia with resilience and determination. Let us heed these lessons and work towards fostering a culture of understanding and support within our academic communities at SNU. Together, we can create environments where students thrive both academically and personally, equipped to overcome any challenge they may face.
Photo by José Ramos