How to Prevent Burnout as a Weary College Student

Challenging classes, part-time work or co-op placements, socializing: it's easy to see why students burn out! Here's how to save yourself.

Written for Humber College by Hefzi-ba Mancilla Plaza.

After a long fall semester and a gloomy winter, burnout can sneak up on us. It's important to recognize that burnout is more than just an overwhelming feeling of exhaustion — it's a state of physical and emotional stress. It can affect anyone, from the most diligent students to devoted parents and professors too.

Recognizing the signs early and taking proactive steps to prevent burnout is crucial for maintaining your well-being and achieving a balanced life.

Empowering wellness: Humber's holistic approach

At Humber, the health and well-being of our community stands at the forefront of our mission. Understanding that true wellness encompasses much more than just physical health, we are committed to supporting every member of our community — staff and students alike — through a comprehensive and holistic approach.

This commitment is embodied in our initiative, Healthy YOU: an online hub designed to centralize well-being resources that cater to the diverse needs of our community.

The heart of this initiative is Humber's Well-being Strategy, which is built upon four foundational pillars: mental, physical, financial, and social health. This strategy recognizes that each aspect of well-being is interconnected, influencing overall quality of life.

By providing targeted support across these four areas, Humber aims to create an environment in which everyone can flourish.

Unlock wellness at Humber: Prevent burnout & boost health

At Humber, we prioritize your wellness journey, focusing on preventing burnout and enhancing your overall health. With a variety of facilities and programs tailored to support your physical, mental, and emotional well-being, we've got the tools you need.

As a member of the Humber community, be sure to get your Free Athletics Membership to access these resources. Visit the Humber fitness website to discover more, then gear up in your favourite workout attire and make your way to our facilities for a much-needed session of mindfulness stretching.

Fostering wellness and diversity

Burnout also affects us emotionally, Humber offers a unique and nurturing space dedicated to supporting students from all backgrounds and beliefs. In today's fast-paced academic environment, it's crucial to find moments of tranquillity and self-discovery to prevent burnout.

The Spirituality and Wellness Centre (SWC) offers just that — a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment where students can delve into various cultures, religions, and spiritual practices. This exploration not only fosters a deeper understanding of oneself but also promotes an appreciation for the diverse community at Humber.

By providing a sanctuary for spiritual growth and cultural exchange, the SWC plays a vital role in enhancing student wellness and preventing burnout, ensuring a more balanced and enriching college experience. Visit the SWC's webpage to learn more.

Strengthening your studies

The life of a student can seem like a long, never-ending assignment. From academic pressures to tight deadlines, this often leads students to the brink of burnout. Recognizing this, Humber has curated a comprehensive suite of student resources available online.

From tutoring services and writing assistance, to workshops on time management and study skills, these resources are specifically tailored to empower students to excel academically while maintaining their mental and emotional well-being.

By taking advantage of these offerings, students can navigate their educational journey more smoothly, keeping burnout at bay.

One step at a time

Take a deep breath: Humber is here for you, ready to ensure you're equipped with the necessary tools to thrive both academically and personally. Whether you're diving into the depths of your academic pursuits, seeking solace in spirituality, or striving for physical and mental wellness, Humber is ready to support you every step of the way.