Exploring the Root Causes of Burnout Syndrome among College Students: A Systematic Literature Review of Contributing Factors
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Background: Students are often faced with various pressures and challenges during their college studies. Academic pressure, heavy workloads, and demands to excel can be significant sources of stress. If not managed properly, these conditions can lead to burnout, a state of chronic physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion that results in decreased motivation and performance. Objectives: This article aims to explain the various factors that cause college students to burnout and its impact on health and academic performance. In addition, multiple strategies to overcome and prevent burnout among college students will also be discussed to improve their well-being during higher education. Methods: This study uses a narrative review method. Pubmed, Elsevier, and Google Scholar are used as databases to obtain appropriate articles. The keywords used in this study are "burnout" and "students", "college student" or "academic". Literature search is limited from 2014 - 2024. Results: Fifteen articles are relevant and related to this study. Factors that cause burnout in students include cumulative ecological risk, neuroticism, personal aspects, academic factors, cynicism, professional efficacy, motivation, social relationships, financial and family problems, stress, depression, anxiety, practical experience, lack of stress management, sleep quality, and physical exercise. Conclusions: Many factors cause burnout in students, and several efforts need to be made to reduce the risk of burnout, including increasing resilience and emotional support. Relevant authorities need to create effective strategies for college students' mental well-being, such as psychological help centers, mental health support groups, and amendments to the academic curriculum.
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