Centre for Student Development and Counselling

Tip Sheet: Avoiding Burnout

Feeling stressed by university life is a common occurrence for most students. These are just some of the ways you can take care of yourself and try to manage your stress before it becomes problematic.

1. Get enough sleep. Eight hours is recommended for peak performance.
2. Exercise, participate in a sport, or take part in a fun activity.
3. �Keep gas in your tank.�� Be sure to eat three balanced meals per day plus snacks.
4. If you like coffee, try switching to decaf.
5. Set realistic goals.
6. Plan out your time and prioritize tasks:
• Look at how you are spending your time.
• Make a weekly schedule and try to follow it.
• �Just do it!� Try to avoid procrastination.
7. Dare to say no. One more little thing may be the �straw that breaks the camel�s back.� It�s okay to say �No,� �I can�t,� or �Later.�
8. Count to 10. Before you say or do something you'll regret, step away from the stressor and collect yourself.
9. When studying for an exam, study in short segments and gradually extend the time you spend studying. Take frequent short breaks.
10. Practice relaxation techniques. For example, whenever you feel tense, slowly breathe in and out for several minutes or imagine a relaxing scene.
11. Schedule in some �worry time.� If you start to feel stressed, deal with the worries when the time is right. Don't let them control you.
12. Take a walk or soak it up in the tub. Make time to engage in at least one enjoyable activity per day.
13. Focus on your good qualities and accomplishments.
14. Talk to a friend about your problems, don't hold it in.
15. When you need help, get help. You can book an appointment to speak to a counsellor at the Centre for Student Development and Counselling (416-979-5195).