The moment you arrive back in Newcastle following Reading Week, it sparks a realisation that you are no longer at ‘uni’ but at university.
As assessments and deadlines approach, this can mark the start of a downward spiral, where 3am library 'lock-in' sessions eventually culminate in burnout. You reach a point, where no matter what, you just can't retain any information
Reaching the point of burnout often creeps up on you like a snake in the grass, striking just when you feel completely snowed under by your workload.
Being a student engrossed in a ‘hustle and bustle’ lifestyle culture can amplify sentiments of feeling like you may not have done enough. But trust me, you have.
Importantly, burnout is preventable. For you to get the most out of your university experience, you cannot constantly burn the candle at both ends. So here are a few tips to help avoid crashing out and burning out!
Balance
Undoubtedly, the most pivotal step that you can take to avoid burnout is balance.
A healthy work-life balance will provide a strong foundation for structuring your busy life in a way that doesn’t harm you or your productivity.
The only person who can stop you from reaching a state of burnout is you. You're just one person, and you can only do so much!
Look out for early signs of burnout. If life becomes too hectic, it is ok to take things slower and one step at a time. Do not feel afraid to rearrange plans, go to bed early, or even submit a self-certified extension for your assessment if your studies are affected by your circumstances.
You are the protector of your peace, and it is a necessity that when you sense life is becoming overwhelming that you take time to rest and relax.
By doing this, it means you can stay in control of your life, not burn out. Then, when you are ready to resume your tasks or plans, you will be right back at it and even more productive.
Winter break
One thing that always keeps me holding on until the end of term is the inevitability that we will be off university for several weeks. Therefore, if you are able to, you have the perfect opportunity to return home with friends and family.
Although many of the days will be spent doing coursework or revising for exams, there is something that just heals your mind, body, and soul when you are home.
I think a good way to structure studying when home over the winter break is by carrying out ‘office days’. On the days you do not have plans and feel like you need to ‘lock in’, study from 09:00–17:00/10:00–18:00. Then take regular 5–10-minute breaks every hour, and then longer for lunch.
This way, you have an element of structure to your study days, while not overworking yourself and you can then have your evenings free to enjoy yourself. Studying is all about moderation.
Ultimately, when at home, the best thing you can do is cherish the time. Make plans with family and friends.
And if you're staying in Newcastle, there are opportunities to connect with others over the break - find out more on the Winter in Newcastle page.
Remember, you have been relentlessly working from September onwards, so allow yourself to take a break!
Social life
One of the best things you can do to extinguish the flames of burnout is to surround yourself with good company.
Often, the build-up to burnout is you cynically isolating yourself from your friends as your work takes over as a priority. Do not be that friend.
As simple as it sounds, make sure to check up on each other. Having a social outlet is integral to staying in a positive mindset.
If you have planned to go on a walk, grab a coffee together or join a society social night, then that gives you something to look forward to.
Having a plan is an automatic study break as it frees you from the self-constraint of feeling as if you must seclude yourself in the Philip Robinson Library.
Newcastle has such a lively nightlife and events scene, so there is always so much to get involved with. Whether that is a pub quiz, music gig or art exhibition, there will be something that can cure your symptoms of burnout.
Reminder: do not feel guilty about living your life! Studying is temporary, memories are forever!
Cosy night in
Utilise the dark afternoons and cold weather to your advantage this winter.
No one wants to be outside at night in nearly sub-zero temperatures.
That is why having a wholesome cosy night is a tremendous way to replenish the fuel in your tank before your busy day that will follow.
The simple beauty of making a hot chocolate, pouring a hot water bottle, getting into comfortable pyjamas, getting under a thick quilted duvet and watching your favourite show is enough to justify doing this.
I would argue that although it is important to see your friends, you do not want social battery drainage to be a factor that helps to fan the flames of burnout.
Taking time for yourself is one of the greatest things you can do to recalibrate.
It provides an opportunity for reflection on all that you have accomplished and what you will go on to achieve.
As hard as ‘FOMO’ is to avoid, be grateful for knowing that you are having a lovely night that will have you feeling rested and ready for the next social event.
Hobbies
When you are a student, it can be difficult to sometimes realise that your life is more than the monotonous cycle of studying and socialising.
To ensure you avoid symptoms of chronic fatigue, make sure you embellish your daily routine by incorporating a hobby into it.
All it takes is one browse on Pinterest or TikTok to uncover a niche interest that you can pursue.
Personally, I have started to cultivate my own flowers. Every two weeks, I will treat myself to an affordable bunch of flowers and watch them grow in my vase. Cutting their stems and changing their water most days allows me a quick escape from the chaos of reality.
There are endless amounts of activities that you can pick up and make your new method of self-care. Examples can include running, reading, baking, knitting, and volunteering.
If something can cause you to reach a “flow state,” then you know you are on the right path to battling burnout.
Support
Even taking one of these steps can help in dealing with the stress and pressure of university.
If at times it feels as if it has gotten a little too much, please do not be afraid to reach out to the Student Health and Wellbeing team.
By Callum, a second year Combined Honours student and Student Content Creator