Written by: Emma Boughman
As students come closer to the end of the school year, burnout becomes a real topic, and this is no exception at Southern Adventist University. The Accent posted an Instagram poll for Southern students, and 80% of voters said they are currently feeling burnt out.
The Accent messaged Lilly Nunnaley, a junior business major, one of the respondents. Nunnaley said she experienced burnout when her schoolwork started to feel neverending. As a business major, she feels like she has lots of busy work that may not be necessary.
Jerleine Capobres, resident assistant (RA) and sophomore nursing major, described the burnout she has experienced throughout her entire college career as drastically different than high school burnout, even considering boarding high schools.
“College has much more responsibilities, academic workload, job duties and social requirements,” she said. “…It’s easier to feel exhausted physically and mentally.”
Capobres said often everything feels overwhelming, and she wants to take a break, but assignments keep piling up. She described an “internal panic” that often comes when being overloaded with demands.
Amy Ortiz Moretta, Counseling Services coordinator, said burnout, or lack of motivation, is a signal for a much-needed break. Her tips to help alleviate the problem include self-kindness, movement, involvement in nature, time management, fun, support and God. She recommends students taking care of their basic needs, having fun doing enjoyable things and connecting with supportive friends and family. She believes studying God’s Word is always beneficial.
“He is the one who created us and knows exactly what we need,” she said. “Only He can provide true restoration.”
Last semester, Capobres sent helpful tips by email to the girls living on her hall and also hung up posters on how to not burn out. In addition, she makes sure to do wellness checks on her girls.
Nunnaley said she just needs a break sometimes. During that time, she does something she enjoys, or nothing at all.
If you feel like you need additional support, Moretta advises you to make an appointment with a counselor. Students can call 423-236-2782 or stop by the Counseling Center office.
