Lecture Notes: How to Deal with Student Burnout

Introduction to Burnout

• Burnout is a debilitating state of exhaustion and lack of interest.
  • Defined by David Ballard (APA) for jobs: prolonged exhaustion, lack of interest, decline in performance.
  • Symptoms include constant exhaustion, lack of motivation, frustration, cynicism.
• Caused by long-term stress, common among students.

Causes of Student Burnout

• 2006 Study at University of Southern Maine
  • Surveyed 354 students; common causes:
    • Mental or physical issues.
    • Problems with professors.
    • Lack of personal motivation (13%).
    • External issues: family, financial, time management (25%).
    • Assignment overload (49%).

Preventing and Fixing Burnout

• Recognize early signs to prevent full burnout.
• Key strategies:
  • Manage Course Load: Don't take on too much.
  • Maintain Physical and Mental Health:
    • Ensure adequate sleep, nutrition, exercise.
  • Stay Organized:
    • Clean and manage task lists.
  • Take Regular Breaks:
    • Use breaks for high-density fun.
    • Schedule sacred break times free from school/work.
    • Consider longer breaks if needed.

Additional Tips

• Engage in Progressive Hobbies: Avoid only consuming media; find hobbies with progression.
• Ask for Help: Seek assistance from campus resources or talk to friends and family.

Conclusion

• The video provides strategies to deal with burnout effectively.
• Encouragement to share additional tips in comments.

Additional Resources

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• Free book on earning better grades available.
• Companion blog post with research resources.
• Connect via Twitter or comments for questions and ideas.