Charlotte Blog: Beat burn out
The winter break is usually a time to reset and reflect on a busy first term - with fun, family, friends and festivities. The break should be a chance for students to recharge before second term starts, but we recognise that it can be extremely difficult to switch off – especially with upcoming exams and deadlines looming. This period can seem particularly overwhelming for students, and studies have shown that increasing pressures in the run up to assessment week can lead to an increase of burn out.
Burn out is a mental health related issue, caused by overworking and stress. Defined by mental and/or physical exhaustion, it can lead to increased levels of anxiety, low mood, depletion of energy and lack of enthusiasm or motivation to name but a few symptoms. Our bodies react to prolonged stress in many different ways, and usually by the time we have noticed we are burnt out, we’re already experiencing exhaustion, low concentration levels or feeling mentally drained.
This winter we want to encourage and support you in looking after your wellbeing as much as possible, promoting a happy and healthy work/life balance. We know the assessment period leaves very little time to switch off, practice mindfulness and relaxation, so we’ve put together a handy little guide to help you relax, manage your workload and prioritise your mental health.
How to recognise the symptoms of burn out
Physical, mental and emotional exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress
- Chronic fatigue
- Increased anxiety
- Insomnia / trouble with sleeping patterns
- Little motivation and enthusiasm
- Exhaustion
- Low mood, low apathy
- Brain fog
- Irritability and frustration
Ways to beat burnout: Tips from JMSU
- Write in a wellbeing journal
- Schedule in study time and for relaxing / enjoying social events
- Have short, frequent breaks in study periods
- Make a hot drink, take a minute of mindfulness to recharge and BREATHE
- Meditate (if that’s your thing)
- Exercise
- Stay hydrated, nourished and well rested
- Contact student advice and wellbeing if you need extra support
Recognising signs of burn out and taking the necessary steps to look after yourself will boost your productivity, help you to manage tasks better, and allow time for you, your self-care and your wellbeing. We must prioritise our mental health, and we at JMSU are here to support and assist our students in their studies throughout their time at LJMU. If you ever need us, please reach out and get the support you need.
Visit our advice pages for further information and support.
