How Spring Break Affects Mental Health

Spring Break, It’s Time to Take a Break

Spring break is a staple in any college student’s life. It is a time to relax and unwind after grueling midterms. Taking a reset physically and mentally is always important, and spring break can be the way to do that. Whether you are a student with many athletic or extracurricular activities weighing down your to-do list, spring break is the time to take a much-needed step back.

Spring break can have both positive and negative effects on your mental health. Below are just a few of the possible effects it can have on your mental health:

Positive

• Reduce burnout and stress

A break from school can allow your brain to rest and reduce stress levels.

• Boost well-being

Time away from assignments, practices, and overall demanding responsibilities can help make oneself feel recharged.

• Increase social connection

Whether it’s visiting friends or family, traveling for spring break can provide an opportunity for great social connections.

• Better physical health

If you’re traveling to a warmer climate, it can improve vitamin D intake and boost moods.

Negative

• Anxiety and post-break stress

While spring break can reduce stress and anxiety, right after can cause post-break stress. The sudden realization that you have to go back to all of your demanding responsibilities can be really challenging.

• Social comparison and pressure

Many college students post their spring break trips on social media, and it can be a great thing. However, there is a lingering culture of comparison on social media that can create feelings of FOMO, which is never cool.

• Financial stress

The cost of possible travel and partying can create financial stress on some college students.

• Disrupt established routines

Spring break can often disrupt well-established routines that were created during the school year, which can increase stress and anxiety in a time of much-needed rest.

No matter what you’re doing for spring break, staying home or traveling to a sunny beach, it’s important to just take a break in general. For more information on how spring break can be beneficial, visit the links below:

https://www.abhmaryland.com/why-spring-break-matters-for-your-mental-health/#:~:text=Spring%20break%20can%20be%20important%20for%20your,Planning%20the%20trip%2C%20which%20can%20boost%20happiness

https://drmessina.com/why-is-spring-break-important/

https://integratedcareclinic.com/blog/spring-break-ready-a-guide-to-mental-wellness-for-college-students/

For more information about some of the great articles on the KWU Student Media website, visit the link below:

https://www.kwustudentmedia.com