Hello from Your Embedded CAPS Counselors, Alison and Audrey

As therapists in the College of Engineering and Applied Science, we see how hard you all have been working all semester. Preparing for high-pressure deadlines, tolerating the inherent uncertainty that comes with research and beyond, navigating workplace interpersonal stressors, and still trying to make time for your personal life can all add up to a semester of feeling completely overwhelmed and exhausted.  

Over our collective 8+ years of working in the engineering space as non-engineers ourselves, we have observed the culture of engineering to be a community that prioritizes grit, analytical prowess, and drive. As engineering students, you are problem-solvers who are trained to be skillful in finding solutions in seemingly impossible circumstances. While this perseverance allows you to succeed and accomplish your goals, this same proclivity can result in a buildup of unreleased stress that contributes to burnout. If not cautious, this burnout can take over and lead to unintended, adverse results. 

Over the course of the fall semester, you are expected to work for months on end in often stressful circumstances. Fall and winter breaks are important times to release stress in order to prevent burnout and related effects including headaches, digestive issues, depression, irritability, and low motivation.  

In the book, Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle, Nagoski & Nagoski review seven evidence-based activities that stave-off burnout including: deep breathing, social connection, laughter, affection with loved ones, crying, creative expression, and exercise. Consider a few activities that you can incorporate into your breaks to release some of the stress that has accumulated over the fall. This does not mean you need to sign up for a week-long mediation retreat or run a marathon. But perhaps you can try five minutes of mindful breathing in the morning or take an extra walk around the block. Good luck! - Audrey and Alison