Natalie Sierra

Burnout is no longer just a term associated with adults in the workforce; it has crept into the lives of students, those who are quietly navigating overwhelming academic, social, and extracurricular pressures. Characterized by exhaustion,
detachment, and a diminished sense of accomplishment, burnout is becoming an increasing issue among teenagers.

While these activities are framed as opportunities for personal growth, they can quickly become overwhelming when balanced on top of personal struggles and the demands of daily life. Many students feel they have no choice but to push themselves to the brink, sacrificing sleep, social time, and mental health to keep up with expectations.

High school students face a relentless schedule, from rigorous classes, extracurricular activities, part-time jobs, all the way until the looming stress of college applications. “Quiet quitting”, was a term popularized in discussions about workplace burnout, and has now made its way into schools. Students have always faced burnout, yet the compiled amounts of stress today are beginning to show more increased signs of this, such as the tendency to opt out of optional activities or doing the bare minimum to get by in classes. While this may seem like laziness to some, it is a survival strategy.

Students are prioritizing their well-being over the constant hustle, getting sucked into cycles of depressive episodes due to overmounting work and pressure. And whilst many stand up
about the lack of care for mental health in schools, student voices are often oppressed by statements telling them that people have always struggled with these areas, which whilst it may be true, media and various factors contribute to change in societal expectations from students today. Just because something is normalized, doesn’t mean it’s normal.

The stigma surrounding burnout exacerbates the problem. Many students hesitate to voice their struggles, fearing judgment or being labeled as “lazy” or “unmotivated.” This silence often leads to prolonged suffering, making it harder for educators and parents to step in and provide support. As the conversation around mental health continues to grow, it’s time to acknowledge that burnout isn’t just for adults. Teens deserve the chance to thrive, not just survive, during these years.