How to Recover from Burnout as a High School Senior

Understanding Burnout

First, congratulations for recognizing and admitting to yourself that you are feeling burned out. This is a significant step toward recovery. High school can be a challenging journey, and it’s crucial to acknowledge when you need to make changes to maintain your well-being and academic success. There are two primary reasons for feeling burnout: learning issues and lack of motivation.

If you suspect that the root cause is motivational, remember that success is within reach. To address motivation, remind yourself of your goals and the importance of striving to do your best. If you're unsure, it might be beneficial to consult with a medical professional for a comprehensive evaluation.

Strategies for Recovery

Here are some practical strategies to help you successfully recover from burnout:

1. Effective Study Habits

Proactive Studying: Start studying for tests a few days before they occur, rather than waiting until the night before. Time Management: If you have multiple tests, like finals, prioritize them and dedicate a little time each day to prepare for all of them. Precision and Attention: Ensure that all submitted assignments are done to your best ability and turned in on time or even early. Note-Taking: Use notes as an additional study tool and review them along with the text at least weekly. Self-Assessment: Utilize self-tests provided in your textbooks to gauge your understanding.

2. Attending Classes and Seeking Help

Regular Class Attendance: Attend all classes and pay full attention to maximize the learning experience. Accessing Resources: Take advantage of all available resources, including online school help sites, to understand difficult material. Reviewing Contents: Review the contents page of chapters or books if available, and focus on sections that you find challenging. Seeking Assistance: Get help with any personal issues that might be interfering with your ability to focus on school.

3. Realizing Success is Possible

Remember that overcoming burnout and returning to academic success is not impossible. Embrace the mindset that if you persevere, you can achieve your goals. As Frank Sinatra famously said, write "impossible" differently, and it spells “I’m possible.” Channels of success and personal improvement are always open.

Recharging Your Batteries

Here are additional strategies to help you recharge and improve your overall well-being:

1. Prioritize Sleep

Sleep is a fundamental aspect of our health and well-being. Our bodies have evolved to follow the natural rhythms of day and night. To optimize your body’s function, aim for at least eight to nine hours of sleep each night, and try to start your sleep cycle before midnight. A valuable resource for understanding the importance of sleep is “Life Time”, a book by Russell Foster, Professor of Circadian Neuroscience at Oxford University.

2. Daily Relaxation Techniques

After a day of studying, take time to relax. Relaxation techniques can enhance the quality of your sleep and improve your memory, making it easier to absorb and retain information. Consider the following methods:

Progressive Muscle Relaxation: Developed by Dr. Edmund Jacobson, this technique is effective in reducing exam nerves and improving the quality and coherency of your writing. Short Relaxation Breaks: Experiment with a ten-minute relaxation session each day to enhance your overall well-being.

3. Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle

Incorporating these techniques into your daily routine will require some lifestyle adjustments, but the benefits will be significant. Best of luck on your journey to overcoming burnout and achieving academic success.