We are getting close to the middle of the university term and with it, the latest crush of mid-terms, assignments and essays. It’s a lot for students, especially those who are juggling other commitments like work or caregiving.
Often we use the terms burnout and stress interchangeably because we might not know the exact difference. But a Mount Royal University professor of psychology says they’re not quite the same thing.
“Burnout is more of a sense of exhaustion and helplessness,” says Dan Devoe.
When people stop taking care of themselves, such as a lack of grooming or appearance, these might be early hints of burnout.
“Even their demeanor, their face usually looks a little flat, not sad or happy – but flat,” says Devoe.
Harvard Business: Educators and Students Are Burned Out. These Strategies Can Help.
Burnout can also lead to physical illness, leaving individuals more susceptible to viruses.
Devoe notices his students will stop handing in assignments towards the end of the semester, a sign that the workload and competing demands are taking their toll.
“It’s highly prevalent in universities, I think 90 per cent of my students get burnt out,” says Devoe.
Teresa Zell, who studies broadcast and media at MRU says that when she’s feeling that way, it becomes hard to focus.
“I was mentally and physically tired almost all the time. If it’s schoolwork that I don’t want to do, it’s really hard to make myself do it,” says Zell.
While school may be stressful in itself, many students have work or other commitments that add to their load.
“Even when I have free time, I’m so exhausted that it’s hard to be engaged with everything.”
Brooke jenkins
Full-time MRU student Brooke Jenkins works six days a week. The price of everything, especially housing and rent worries is a constant worry.
“I don’t necessarily have to be working, but I would feel financially insecure if I wasn’t,” says Jenkins.
Jenkins explains her personal relationships with friends and family are struggling with the overlapping demands.
“Even when I have free time, I’m so exhausted that it’s hard to be engaged with everything.”
Devoe beleives it is crucial to have both professors and students be more educated on burnout and how to ease it.
“If the students are suffering, then the well-being of the entire campus is suffering,” says Devoe.
Burnout can decrease the quality of mental health, especially if you already struggle with it, says Devoe. “We’re seeing high levels of depression, suidice, and self-harm and suicidal ideation.”
Devoe emphasizes how important breaks and recharging are and recommends a couple of ways to avoid burnout: Not procrastinating, eating healthy, exercising, good sleep schedule and personal downtime.
MRU students in need of support can access wellness services here:
https://www.mtroyal.ca/CampusServices/WellnessServices/index.htm
