Academic Pressure Is Real: Let’s Talk Burnout

Let’s be real: university is no joke. Between lectures, assignments, group chats that turn into ghost towns right before deadlines, and the pressure to keep your GPA (and social life) alive. It’s a lot.  

If you've ever found yourself staring blankly at your laptop at 2 AM wondering if coffee counts as a food group…congratulations you’ve met burnout. And no, it's not just "feeling tired." Burnout is exhaustion’s overachieving cousin. It’s physical, emotional, academic, and it’s happening to more students than you think.  

 

So, what does burnout look like? 

  • You feel drained even after sleeping 

  • Your motivation is on airplane mode 

  • That one assignment? Feels like climbing Everest 

  • You’re snappy, anxious, and just… over it 

  • Burnout isn’t failure. It’s your brain asking for a break.  

 

Why are we all so tired? 

Well, there’s a little thing called academic pressure. Everyone talks about pushing through, doing more, showing up but no one really talks about resting without guilt. Whether it’s trying to maintain a bursary, juggle part-time work, or live up to expectations, many NWU students carry invisible weights.  

Add in imposter syndrome, the “I should be doing more” spiral, and suddenly your to-do list feels like a personal attack. 

 

How do we fix it? 

Burnout doesn’t disappear with one nap (though naps help…strongly recommend). Here’s how to start managing it: 

 

1. Set real boundaries 

Not every gap in your schedule is an opportunity to say yes. “No” is a full sentence. 

 

2. Rest isn’t earned. It’s necessary 

You don’t have to be falling apart to take a break. Rest before you need to. 

 

3. Ask for help 

NWU is committed to supporting your success both academically and personally. 

For academic support, connect with the Student Academic Development and Support (SADS) unit, part of the Centre for Teaching and Learning (CTL). Whether you need tutoring, study strategies, or academic guidance, they’re here to help you thrive in your studies. 

If you're facing emotional challenges or just need someone to talk to, the Student Counselling and Development (SCD) department is available on every campus. From managing stress and anxiety to navigating personal struggles, SCD offers professional mental health support to help you stay well and focused. 

Remember: you're not meant to carry it all alone. These services exist for you, make use of them. 

 

4. Romanticise the small stuff 

Light a candle while you study. Make your walk to class a main character moment. Listen to your sad playlist…then get back to business!  

Need a vibe check? We asked our NWU students “What song are you listening to?” Lol, some will surprise you. Think yours fits in? Watch here. 

 

5. Talk to your people 

Chances are your classmate is feeling it too. Don’t suffer in silence. Connection matters more than perfection. 

 

Reminder from one of South Africa’s top-ranked university: Your worth is not tied to your productivity. 

It’s okay to not be okay. And while exams, essays, and expectations might feel overwhelming, you're not alone in this. Prioritise your mental health. Celebrate small wins. And when in doubt, take that break.  Your future self will thank you.