Many colleges across the country have suspended their spring break, in hopes that students won’t travel and contribute to the rising COVID cases on campuses. Although most students are remote and can still travel, having many weeks of school with no breaks can cause harm to mental health. Wellness days serve as an alternative to a spring break, allowing a student to take a well deserved breather and check in with themselves. Here’s why college students deserve wellness days.
Burnout
I have heard many students at my campus complain about how much work they have to do every week. Assignments and tests back to back is expected in college, but with 15+ weeks in school and no break it can become overwhelming. So many students start off with good routines, but eventually burnout can happen. Burnout – or being drained from all the stress that comes with making sure you’re submitting work on time and getting good grades is a reality that students face. Wellness days would allow students to catch a break and relax their minds before having to continue with the rigorous work that is expected of us.
Disengaged
Being that students are remote this semester, finding the motivation to do work and be attentive during class can be a challenge. I know for the past few weeks, I haven’t been as engaged as I was when we were in person. Doing work and receiving good grades might become a task rather than something someone looks forward to. Wellness days would allow students to remember what their end goals are, and will allow them to feel okay to continue pushing through the semester.
College
College isn’t easy – especially during these unprecedented times. College does take a toll on students’ lives. Add that onto other responsibilities and problems that come from us being at home because of the pandemic – it can be a nightmare. Wellness days set aside by schools can include guided meditations, guided discussions on how the semester is going, and more!
Wellness Days should give students the opportunity to catch up or to de-stress. No homework or tests should be assigned on these days. This would definitely improve the mental health of college students across campuses.