Experiencing School Burnout
I think many people can relate to my story. I was an A+ student for most of my life, but once I hit Year 11, my motivation vanished. My situation isn’t helped by the fact that I don’t really have anyone to hang out with, and I’ve got some serious stress at home that I won’t get into.
My studies—legal studies, English, math—have become overwhelming. It’s not just that the work is hard; it’s the sheer volume of it that leaves me feeling swamped. I try to focus on my assignments, but I usually end up distracted, either drawing or writing stories instead. I also find it frustrating to be graded on creativity in art class and constrained by specific structures in my writing. The worst part is knowing that this pattern will continue for the next few years, especially since I plan to go to university.
Also, I struggle with social interactions. This may be due to my autism or my current mental state, but even when I find someone interesting or knowledgeable, I get intense social anxiety that leaves me feeling frozen. Then I end up stressing about it for days.
Sometimes, I wish I could just escape into my writing forever, without any of these pressures. I realize I’m not alone in feeling this way; it’s not an unusual experience. Still, it feels incredibly isolating. It seems like everyone else is handling their workloads and enjoys a vibrant social life. I do have some interactions throughout the day, but they’re brief and superficial.
To cope, I’ve started a little routine where I read for at least an hour at the beginning of each day, free from distractions. It gives me something to look forward to and helps boost my mood.
In closing, can someone please reassure me that I’m not going crazy? This cycle feels like endless torture.
And I really can’t stand being around people and hearing them talk for eight hours every day.
First of all, I want to say that your feelings are completely valid, and you’re definitely not alone in experiencing this kind of burnout. Many students go through similar struggles, especially when the pressure ramps up in the later years of school. It’s okay to express how you feel—even if it feels overwhelming.
It sounds like you’re juggling a lot right now—schoolwork, family stress, and social anxiety. It’s understandable that burnout can set in when you’ve been an A+ student but suddenly feel like you’re losing motivation. Sometimes, the pressure to maintain that standard can be suffocating, especially when you’re facing so much on your plate.
It’s great that you’ve found some comfort in reading! Establishing a routine that brings you joy can make a big difference. Have you thought about integrating your love for writing into your studies? Maybe you could channel some of the stories you enjoy into your assignments, finding ways to make the work align more with your interests. It might help to bring back a little of that motivation.
As for social interactions, know that you’re not alone in feeling anxious in those situations. Many people struggle with social anxiety, and it’s okay to take things at your own pace. Maybe you could start with smaller, low-pressure interactions, like exchanging ideas with classmates or engaging in group work where you feel comfortable.
Remember, seeking support is also a sign of strength. If you have access to a school counselor or a trusted adult, talking about what you’re going through could provide some relief and perspective. You deserve to feel heard and supported.
Lastly, please be kind to yourself. It’s okay to have moments of struggle, and prioritizing your mental health is important. You’re not insane; you’re human and navigating a tough phase. Keep finding those small moments that bring you joy—whether that’s your stories or your reading—and take it one day at a time. You can get through this!