Burnout is often misunderstood as simply being exhausted, but there’s more to it than that. Burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by long-term stress. It can affect anyone, but youths can be particularly impacted. Let’s see some reasons why.

What Causes Burnout in Youths?

 

Academic Pressure: The pressure to excel in school is one of the main causes of burnout in youths. With expectations from parents, teachers, and even other classmates, students often feel overwhelmed by the constant need to perform well in exams, complete assignments, and attain high grades. This relentless pressure can lead to chronic stress, which can eventually result in burnout.

 

Social Media Stress: The omnipresence of social media adds another layer of stress. The constant comparison to peers, the pressure to maintain a perfect online persona, and the fear of missing out (FOMO!) contribute to feelings of inadequacy and anxiety. The need to be constantly connected and up-to-date can be mentally exhausting but a hard pattern to break.

 

Lack of Downtime: Today’s youths often juggle multiple responsibilities, from schoolwork and extracurricular activities to part-time jobs and social commitments. The lack of downtime for relaxation and hobbies can lead to burnout as their minds and bodies don’t get the necessary time to recharge.

Beating Burnout

Burnout is a serious issue that can have long-lasting effects on the body and mind if not addressed. Recognising the signs of burnout is crucial for addressing it early. Some common symptoms include:

  • Chronic Fatigue: Feeling tired all the time, even after a full night’s sleep.
  • Decreased Performance: Struggling to concentrate, forgetting things, and a drop in school or extracurricular performance.
  • Emotional Numbness: Feeling detached, cynical, or disinterested in activities that once brought joy.
  • Physical Symptoms: Frequent headaches, stomach issues, or other unexplained physical ailments.

Try some of these methods to protect from burnout:

 

Set Realistic Goals: It’s important to set achievable goals and avoid overloading. Prioritising tasks and setting boundaries can help manage the workload more effectively.

 

Take Breaks: Regular breaks during study sessions or between activities are crucial! Engaging in relaxing activities, such as reading for pleasure, listening to music, or spending time outdoors, can help alleviate stress.

 

Stay Connected, But Disconnect: While staying connected with friends and family is important, it’s equally necessary to take regular breaks from social media. Setting specific times for social media use can help reduce stress and prevent burnout.

 

Seek Support: Talking to a trusted adult, counsellor, or mental health professional can provide much-needed support. They can offer guidance on how to manage stress and provide coping strategies to prevent burnout!

 

Prioritise Sleep: Adequate sleep is vital for mental and physical well-being. Establishing a consistent sleep schedule and ensuring a restful environment can significantly reduce the risk of burnout.