I’m feeling really overwhelmed by burnout and a lack of stimulation. Everything just feels too slow and repetitive, and honestly, it’s draining. I truly can’t shake this feeling.
Often, I find myself bored in class. I start working ahead or getting my assignments done while the lesson is ongoing. Some teachers aren’t too fond of this approach, as it can lead to mistakes or misjudgments about what I’ve already learned. But when I’m already processing the material being taught, it becomes exhausting.
This exhaustion has led to some serious burnout. There are days when I’m so drained that I can’t even get out of bed or find the motivation to eat—sleep becomes my only escape. Right now, I struggle to study or focus on anything due to how tired I feel, even though I usually get around 7 to 10 hours of sleep on school nights.
I hesitate to share this with my teachers because I worry they’ll interpret it as disrespectful. I understand everyone learns at different speeds, which is why classes move at a slower pace for those who need it.
I’ve tried taking naps after school, but my mom doesn’t allow it, fearing I’ll end up sleeping too much and waste my evening. Honestly, that hasn’t happened, but I guess it’s just her way of looking out for me.
I’m really seeking advice on how to overcome this burnout and feeling of understimulation. And please, no suggestions for exercise or therapy—I’m already doing those.
It sounds like you’re dealing with a really challenging situation. Burnout and understimulation can be incredibly draining, especially when you feel like you’re not being challenged in your classes. It’s frustrating to feel like your time could be better spent, and it makes total sense that you’d be experiencing burnout when you’re not engaged.
Since you’ve already tried exercising and therapy, here are a few alternative approaches you might consider:
Talk to a Trusted Teacher or Counselor: While you’re understandably hesitant, sharing your feelings with someone who could provide support or suggestions might be helpful. A teacher who understands your needs could potentially adjust the pace of their lessons or provide you with more advanced materials.
Independent Projects: If you find your classes repetitive, you could propose an independent project that aligns with your interests. This way, you could dive deeper into a subject you’re passionate about, which might help alleviate some of that boredom.
Change Your Study Environment: Sometimes a simple change in your surroundings can help reinvigorate your motivation. Try studying in a different location, like a library or a coffee shop,
Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Even if you’re already exercising, minding your mental state is crucial. Practicing mindfulness or other relaxation techniques could help you manage your tiredness and the feeling of burnout.
Time Management Strategies: Experiment with different ways to manage your time and workload. Try breaking your study sessions into shorter, focused bursts with short breaks in between. This could help you retain information while keeping your mind active.
Explore Extracurricular Activities: Engaging in clubs or activities that align with your interests outside of school can provide additional stimulation and a break from the normal routine.
Your feelings are valid, and it’s okay to seek out solutions that allow you to thrive. Finding ways to balance what you’re learning with your interests might help alleviate some of that burnout. Hang in there!