I feel that a lot of people have been experiencing symptoms of burnout. No motivation, exhaustion, insomnia, anxiety being amplified, emotionally overwhelmed and being easily triggered. It’s honestly really tough, it’s been a year since COVID came into our lives and I don’t think we thought we’d be in this predicament we’re in right now.
Staying at home all day, working continuously, even if you’re not actively working, all of your work sits on your mind and it consumes you. I’m sure I’m not the only one that feels this way but hopefully creating a solid routine can help.
I know everyone talks about having a good routine and it sounds boring and useless but it really isn’t. By not being in an academic environment, and even if you are, it’s difficult to get into the zone. I think having a set routine and doing things around the same time everyday gives your brain the relief of having some sort of structure to your day and you can balance more.
If you’re feeling a bit burnt out, take a step back. Go for a walk, make something yummy to eat, have a refreshing shower, get some fresh air, listen to some music, write down your thoughts or have a nap. You need to give yourself a break even when you feel like you don’t have any time to. Your mental health must come first because if you keep pushing it aside, you’ll crash and make it worse. Email your superiors at work or uni, specifically to whomever is most understanding and explain your predicament. If they’re understanding, great, if not, screw them and take a well deserved break. Maybe see who you can speak to that’s higher up that’s more understanding hehe.
I know some people don’t like hugs but I think we all need one when we’re struggling, so get a hug from someone who will always be there for you, grab some food and have a movie night where you’ll laugh and talk and enjoy yourself.
Give someone you love a call, even if it’s just to say, ‘Hey! I miss you!’. Hearing a familiar voice provides comfort and it honestly makes a difference, a video call is better though, so you can see their face too!
I’m almost done my first year and some people have started their second year. I think we forget how similar the feelings are of both. One is trying to get the energy to start up again and be productive and the other is trying to keep the energy until it’s over. Just remember that no matter what, if your brain is sending you signals to take a step back and breathe, do it.
Please speak to your loved ones if you’re feeling a bit low and work together to get through it. Do what will make you feel better! A bath, a walk, a glass of wine! It doesn’t matter as long as it makes you feel even the tiniest bit better!
Look after yourself and I’ll see you next week. See you my beauties!
