Feeling down during the spring semester?
I can’t quite put my finger on why this happens every year. During the fall, I’m energized, focused, and enjoy my studies. But come spring, everything changes.
When I’m at school or working on assignments, I often feel hopeless, as if I’m on the verge of tears. The strange part is, when I’m engaged in other activities, everything feels perfectly fine.
I have an exam tomorrow, and I’m struggling to muster any motivation for it. Just looking at the materials makes me feel uneasy. If it were fall, I’d be studying hard, aiming for an A; now, I’m just hoping to scrape by with a C. Does anyone else experience this? Why does spring affect me like this while fall feels so different?
For context, I’m in my thirties and this is my second time around in college. I’m a part-time student, taking just two classes, so it’s not like I’m feeling overwhelmed by my course load.
It’s really common to experience shifts in motivation and mood, especially around this time of year. A few factors might be playing into what you’re feeling. As the spring semester progresses, it’s not unusual for burnout to set in, especially if you’ve been working hard since the fall. The excitement of starting fresh in the fall can lead to a lot of motivation, while the spring can feel like a long stretch, especially if the end is not quite in sight yet.
Also, seasonal changes can impact our moods. The transition from winter to spring, while generally associated with more sunlight, can also bring allergy season and other stressors that might wear you down.
Since you’re managing your studies alongside other commitments, the pressure you put on yourself can also contribute to those feelings. It might be helpful to take a step back and think about what you can do to make studying feel less overwhelming right now. Maybe break down your study material into smaller, more manageable chunks, or reward yourself for small achievements to help rekindle some motivation.
And remember, it’s okay to have off days! It’s important to be gentle with yourself during this time. Consider reaching out to a counselor or therapist who might help you explore these feelings more deeply. You’re not alone in this, and talking it out can often provide relief and clarity. Good luck with your exam!