How to deal with feeling burnt out

Starting a new term of university can very quickly become overwhelming, it can feel as though you’ve pushed yourself to work so hard that you are now burnt out. If this is the case, then it is really important to take some time for yourself to recharge and rest.

Photo Courtesy: BBC

Give yourself a break.

Often, we can forget to give ourselves a proper break, being too occupied with assignments, readings, and essays. Take a couple hours out of an evening during the week to turn off your laptop and take a real break. Use this time to cook yourself a meal or take a walk. We feel burned out when our bodies' needs aren’t being met. So,giving yourself a few hours a week to prioritise your body and taking time away from your screen will help you from feeling lethargic.

Check in with yourself.

Burnout can often be a result of neglecting your mental health. If you need some guidance on how to get back on track there are a number of accessible resources out there to help. ‘Student Minds’ has lots of free resources available to support you with university life including a ‘Coping with University Life’ booklet which includes information on how to access further support. UCL also offers Student Support and Wellbeing which gives you access to counselling if you need some one-to-one help.

Do things for yourself.

When we come to university, we can often place all of our focus on our studies and forget about our interests and hobbies. Dedicating time to doing activities that you genuinely enjoy can help improve your mood, reduce anxiety, and re energise. If you are struggling to think of activities to do then head down to your local charity shop and pick up a new board game to try, a new book to read or you could even be more creative and pick up an old plate and give it a paint. The possibilities are endless.

Preventing future burnout.

We may find ourselves feeling burnt out again during the year but there are a few steps we can take to try and prevent ourselves from constant burn out. Having structured days are imperative, this means stopping work at a certain time in the day to give yourself enough time to eat, exercise and sleep. Managing time, have it written down when assignments are due so that you have enough time to complete them and don’t become overwhelmed. Have a go at mindfulness, whether this is through journaling, adult colouring books or even taking part in the UCL Mindfulness Society’s guided meditations.

The most important thing is to remember that you are not alone and that there is support available to help you feel better.