Wellbeing

‘End-of-term-itis’… it’s definitely a thing!

It is a real problem which showcases the effects that stress has on our bodies. It is a condition which many students and teachers feel towards the end of term and is our body’s way of telling us that we have been putting it under too much stress and that it needs to be looked after. 

There is nothing new or ground-breaking about this discovery, however, it isn’t always easy to spot unless you’re aware of it. It is important to draw attention to end-of-term-itis as suddenly so many more people are experiencing it due to significant changes in our work and life routines. 

In children, this is can present as meltdowns! You know, those random explosions that children seem to have over nothing and at random times! It is because they are tired. The trick here is to recognise early signs to avoid burnout and unwanted illness. What symptoms should you 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 is not an exhaustive list, however, I’m sure you get the idea. It is a sure sign that our immune system is in need of some attention and self-care.

What better time to do this than over school holidays?  Allow kids to have some downtime and make sure you do the same for yourself -  after all, you won’t be good for anyone else if you are not good to yourself! 

Also check out this link for some kid-friendly events and activities happening these school holidays – https://whatson.melbourne.vic.gov.au/things-to-do/family-and-kids/school-holidays

Brittany Taylor

School Psychologist