End-of-term-itis is a real problem, showcasing the effects that stress has on our bodies. It is a condition which many students and teachers feel towards the end of the term. Of course, you don’t have to be a teacher, student or involved in homeschooling to struggle with End-of-term-itis. It can present itself in many different ways: at the end of the quarter, after exams, or at the end of big projects or assignments. It is our body’s way of telling us that we have been putting it under too much stress and neglected its needs to be looked after.

There is nothing new or groundbreaking about this discovery, however, it isn’t always easy to spot unless you are aware of it. It is important to draw people’s attention to End-of-term-itis as suddenly so many more people are experiencing it due to the significant changes in our work and life routines, as well as additional pressures of homeschooling for those with children.

What are the symptoms? 

I’m sure most of you reading this will have experienced it before in one way or another, however, it is most important to raise awareness and recognise early signs to avoid burnout and unwanted illness. So what are the symptoms to be looking out for?

• Fatigue
• Exhaustion
• Short-tempered
• Snapping at people
• General bad mood
• Lack of motivation
• Lack of sleep
• Lack of energy
• Harder to make decisions

This isn’t an exhaustive list, however, I’m sure you get the idea. It is a sure sign that our immune system is ‘shot’ and in need of some attention and self-care. Left untreated and ignored, these symptoms can often lead to colds, flu and occasionally more sinister illnesses.

‘How is it best to tackle this?’ I hear you ask

In short, you must rest, ease the pressures and expectations you have of yourself. Ensure these expectations are realistic. Allow yourself ‘downtime’.

You won’t be good for anyone else if you are not good to yourself!

It all comes down to self-care. Where possible, try to ease the stress that you are putting yourself through. This may be challenging if the term hasn’t actually finished or your project hasn’t reached completion. However, if this is the case then what is something that you can ease back on? Reducing other commitments, plans and extracurricular activities in your life can be useful. Or, simply adding in a few extra breaks throughout the day can make all the difference. This can also be a great habit to build in any case to help your overall wellbeing.

Rest is the ultimate form of recovery. Plan for earlier nights and extra rests throughout the days if possible. It is crucial to give yourself and your mind opportunities to truly switch off.

Often people turn to the benefits of meditation. If this isn’t your thing then there are many other alternatives. Going for a walk, or doing exercise is helpful, listening to music and watching a candle, flame or waves is often seen to be therapeutic.

So much of our lives revolve around computer and phone screens. Take some time away from these.

I have discovered that a crucial part of combating End-of-term-itis is to develop early awareness. Once I start to observe some of the symptoms mentioned above, I know it is time to focus more on my body and mind and identify ways to look after myself.

This information is based on my personal experience and conversations with professional colleagues, accumulated over nearly a decade working in education. I am not a doctor and this is not based on any formal research. These are my own thoughts and tips which I share to promote self-care.