Burnout as a Sentinel

Alarm goes off at 6:45 am. I feel so tired and sleep for 10 more minutes. Alarm goes off at 6:55 am. Okay I need to wake up, I didn’t shower last night. Alarm goes off at 7:10 am. I need to pack my lunch! Alarm goes off at 7:20 am. Is it Late Start Monday? Alarm goes off at 7:40 am. Ugh I need to start my car. I finally get up at 7:50 am, grab some clothes on the floor, get a granola bar, speed on the way to school, and walk in at 8:04 am, starting my day off the same awful way as last week.

If you’re like me, this has become your regular routine in these winter months. You tell yourself each Sunday that this will be the week you become productive again, only to roll out of bed at the last possible minute (not to mention refusing to complete the work overload from school). Whether you’ve fallen victim to Seasonal Affective Disorder or just suffering from a case of “winter blues”, it’s important to understand what the symptoms are of burnout and what small changes in your day can be made to break the wretched cycle!

According to humantold, “Post-holiday burnout” can manifest itself as emotional exhaustion, physical fatigue, increased irritability, disconnection from family, friends and work, heightened stress, and lack of accomplishment (feeling as if efforts don’t matter). More intense symptoms include difficulty concentrating, increased pessimism, and oversleeping. These symptoms sincerely affect everyday life, causing it to be difficult to get out of bed, focus during school, be sociable, and complete assignments at home. 

These unhealthy habits are often attributed to happenstance; but in reality, something more complex is occurring biologically. Dr. Sarah Brewer, medical director of Healthspan and author of self-help books explains that when under stress, the body goes into “Fight or Flight” mode, resulting in an increased heart rate, blood pressure, and tense muscles, leading to difficulty concentrating and foggy thoughts. It's understandable why succumbing to long-term stress takes such a toll on the human body!

Establishing a morning and evening routine is also important, something that has personally changed my own productivity. Keeping a consistent routine reduces stress, even if it's as simple as waking up at the same time each day. Most importantly, talk to a trusted friend or adult and be kind to yourself. Set little goals and congratulate yourself when they are accomplished.

The life of a Sentinel in this cold month of February can be hard, but implementing small healthy habits may be the thing you need to turn your life around. Nevertheless, further medical intervention may be needed, so don’t feel afraid to reach out to a mental health professional.