Many people might look back at their school years and remember that period of time as some of the best and most simple days in their lives. What is not widely acknowledged or understood is that students sometimes face problems related to a sense of being overwhelmed by all of the demands that are placed on them. Academic burnout is a common problem faced by students in today’s world. Students are often required to hold several responsibilities outside of their studies. Many students are employed, some are raising families as well as a multitude of various other requirements of their time and energy that don’t always allow for the student to fully focus on their academics. Academic burnout is defined as “a psychological syndrome of emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced personal accomplishment that occurs as a response to emotional and interpersonal stressors among individuals” (Maslach).

Academic burnout is a condition that can affect any student at any level of their studies. It is characterized by feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, and inadequacy. If left unchecked, academic burnout can lead to serious mental and physical health problems.

There are a number of factors that can contribute to academic burnout. Some of the most common include:

• unrealistic expectations - either from yourself or from others.
• a feeling of being overwhelmed by the amount of work that you have to do.
• a lack of confidence in your ability to succeed.
• perfectionism - setting unrealistically high standards for yourself and feeling like a failure when you don't meet them.
• a negative outlook towards your studies - feeling like they are a chore or a waste of time.

The negative impacts of academic burnout are far reaching.  Although students in Asian countries are believed to experience the highest risk of academic burnout, it exists worldwide and across all academic levels.  (Rahmatpour, Chehrzad, Ghanbari, Sadat-Ebrahimi). When considering the impact that academic burnout has on students, it is imperative  to realize that it likely has an affect on more than just a student’s academic performance.  For some students, academic burnout is known to potentially have an affect on physical, mental and social functioning.  Academic burnout is known to consist of three separate but connected dimensions.(Jacobs & Dodd).  First among the three dimensions is emotional exhaustion.  Emotional exhaustion can lead students to experience difficulties in emotionally connecting with others.  This can have a significant impact on their functioning including low mood, sleep issues, appetite issues and difficulty with interpersonal relationships.  Emotional exhaustion is also known to potentially have an impact on aspects of physical health.  Along with emotional exhaustion, academic burnout can result in depersonalization.  This includes difficulty in experiencing empathy for others.  A cynical worldview can lead to isolation, rigidity, changes in mood and other serious issues.  The third and final dimension consistent with academic burnout is reduced personal accomplishment.  In this, a student may create a negative personal narrative, doubt personal abilities and undermine or diminish personal accomplishments.  

In order to identify and address academic burnout, it is suggested that schools provide mental health resources, education, and teach students coping skills.(Semu).  Schools should encourage an environment where students are educated about academic burnout and are taught to watch for signs and symptoms in themselves and their peers.  Schools should provide adequate linkage to mental health services provided by service providers who also understand academic burnout in order to provide support to overwhelmed students.  Internal motivation is mentioned as a factor in student resiliency around academic burnout.  When students feel supported by their academic leaders, they will be more likely to reach out for help when needed.  

In conclusion, one widespread student problem is academic burnout.  Without education and resources, students may not be aware they are experiencing this problem and might instead look internally asking themselves why they are so overwhelmed when everyone else around them might be appear to be keeping up without issue.  Normalizing the occurrence of student problems and addressing the stresses that come along with having too much on your plate, is a good first step towards identifying and addressing academic burnout.    

How to Cope with Academic Burnout

If you are struggling with academic burnout, it is important to seek help as soon as possible. There are a number of resources available to help you cope with this condition and get back on track with your studies.

Some of the most effective ways to deal with academic burnout include:

1. talking to someone who can understand and offer support - this could be a friend, family member, teacher, or counselor.

2. seeking professional help by asking do my paper for me, if the problem is severe or persists despite your best efforts.

3. taking a break from your studies - this doesn't mean giving up altogether, but rather taking some time off to relax and recharge.

4. setting realistic goals - both short-term and long-term - and breaking down your work into manageable chunks.

5. finding a healthy balance between work and leisure time.

6. making sure that you are getting enough sleep and exercise.

Academic burnout is a serious issue but it can be overcome with time and effort. If you are struggling, don't hesitate to seek help from those around you. With the right support, you can get back on track and achieve success in writing.

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