Break Free From Burnout: How To Reclaim Rest in Your Chaotic Life
I think it's a fact that SUNY Polytechnic students are some of the busiest people I know. Some of you are working, serving on student leadership, playing on sports teams and/or raising families; all while being a student at the SAME time. Talk about exhausting. While it’s great to be active, if we’re not careful, we can put ourselves at risk of burnout. Burnout is awful; it’s being deprived of necessary rest in our lives and being stuck in survival mode. It’s really not living, and YOU deserve better! As we reach the halfway point of the semester, it’s important to take time to rest. If you’re struggling and need some help, keep on reading!
Listen to Your Body
I used to wish that there was an alarm to warn me whenever I would be putting myself at risk of burnout. Then I realized I do have an alarm, it’s my body. Our bodies are amazing; they let us know when we’re in danger, sick, and so much more. Some common physical symptoms of burnout are lack of energy, changing sleep habits, headaches, and stomachaches. To top it off, there’s emotional exhaustion that makes you feel constantly drained.
Not only can the symptoms be harmful, but they also have potential health outcomes. The American Psychological Association has found that burnout increases the likelihood of cardiac diseases, sleeping disorders, and more. It can also be damaging to your mental health. It has been found that burnout can increase the risk of depression. I don’t share these health outcomes to scare you, but rather to provide awareness of the long-term effects.
Ask for Help
One of the hardest things to do when you’re in this burnout position is recognizing there’s an issue. So often, we’re so used to feeling burned out that we think it’s normal. Something that I have found helpful is confiding in a trusted friend, colleague, or mental health professional. You’ll realize quickly that you’re not the only one who has struggled with this … how refreshing! If there’s a specific area of your life contributing to burnout, talk to someone in that area of your life. If it’s a class, talk to your professor, or if it’s workload at work, talk to your boss. Seriously, you don’t have to put yourself under unnecessary stress; I find most people are accommodating and understanding, all you have to do is ask.
All About Time
Another suggestion is to devote one day a week to rest. One day of the week where you’re not working, doing classwork, or in virtual meetings. Be intentional in preserving that day to rest. If it helps, put it on your calendar or phone. Having that time allows you to reset and enjoy your life. If your schedule is too packed for rest, it might be a sign to reassess your priorities. Caring for yourself and managing your needs should be a priority. If you’re not caring for yourself, it’s going to be difficult for you to completely manage your other commitments. This might mean learning to say “no” a couple of times. I know it may be hard, but think of it as saying “no” so you can say “yes” later.
Unplug
So maybe you already have time to rest, but now what? If you’re like me, you can find yourself wasting your precious free time on your phone. Don’t get me wrong, I think technology is great and helpful, but I also know it’s a distraction. We weren’t made to be constantly available 24/7, so don’t be. Turn your phone off for a couple of hours; trust me, you’ll survive. Do something you enjoy; whether it’s reading, going for a run, or catching up on sleep. I guarantee you’ll have less stress once you unplug for a little bit.
Most of you right now are probably running on empty. You’re exhausted, just trying to keep up with every moment. I hope despite the busyness, you can find rest. You might have to let go or say no to some opportunities, but it will save you from harmful outcomes. Especially when you’re younger, if you’re able to develop these healthy habits now, they’ll stick with you as you grow older. Remember, having rest will help you feel your best.
