Reclaiming a truly restful spring break: why CSB+SJU students should chill out

“Got any plans for spring break?”

It’s a question that gets asked every year, but for many college students, the answer isn’t as simple as it sounds. Spring break used to be the ultimate escape, the time when students could step away from the constant cycle of lectures, assignments and exams. It was a chance to recharge, take a breath and get ready for the final push of the semester. For many CSB+SJU students, however, spring break may no longer feel like a break at all. Between academic pressure, extracurricular commitments and social pressure, the break has evolved into just another stress-filled stretch of time.

The problem begins with the academic calendar. For many, spring break coincides with midterms or major projects that can’t be ignored. Instead of relaxing, students find themselves cramming for exams, finishing research papers or preparing for presentations. When the week finally arrives, it often feels like just another chapter in the ongoing saga of deadlines and responsibilities. Rather than taking a well-deserved pause, students stare at a list of tasks that demand attention, all while trying to do them under the guise of “break.” Academic pressure doesn’t stop there. At CSB+SJU, where students are consistently encouraged to excel academically and personally, spring break can feel like an extension of the race for success. Many students use the time off to get ahead in their courses, work on research projects or participate in internships. While these activities can be valuable, they contribute to the growing belief that time off should always be used for productivity. Taking a step back to simply relax has become a luxury, one that many students can’t afford.

Extracurriculars add another layer to the pressure. Whether it’s a sports team still practicing over break, student organizations demanding attention or leadership positions requiring constant involvement, the break can feel more like an extension of the school week than a time to get away. The pressure to stay involved with these commitments only heightens the sense of obligation. The need to be “always on” — constantly participating, volunteering, networking — has turned spring break into just another opportunity to prove oneself.

The age of social media can amplify the need to have the picture-perfect spring break. You may feel the fear of missing out when you see your peers posting from somewhere exotic, but that doesn’t mean a big trip is what everyone needs to enjoy themselves. The pursuit of the perfect spring break can turn what should be a time of relaxation into a stressor of its own, as students feel they need to measure up to the curated, highlight reel lives of others. The financial aspect of spring break can also add stress — vacations are expensive and not always possible for some students. For those of us trying to balance our budgets or save up for the next semester, any financial burden might make it harder to enjoy a restful break.

Academic breaks can vary for many different students. Some athletes stay on campus to train or travel to compete in championships, tournaments and exhibitions. Some out-of-state and international students aren’t able to return home if they don’t have other travel plans, so they may stay on campus as well. There is no right or wrong way to do spring break, and the important thing is that students remember to prioritize what is feasible and important on an individual basis.

According to Allina Health, studies have shown that breaks or vacations can decrease stress, prevent burnout and even reduce the long-term risk of disease. Good habits when it comes to finding ways to relax while still in college can set a healthy precedent that will assist with improved work life balance in the future.

One study published in Work and Stress: The International Journal of Work found that it doesn’t matter if a break is spent at home or in another country, since location is not what matters when it comes to having a restful break. In this study, mental health improvement during breaks was most prominent when individuals were able to completely set aside their work tasks and truly take time off, for however long as possible, wherever they were.

When spring break is not utilized to the fullest, whatever anxiety or brain fog you were feeling before heading home or hopping on a plane will just follow you back to campus in another week. What was once a chance to step away from the grind has become just another extension of it. It’s time to rethink what we truly need from a break. Instead of pushing ourselves to be productive or keep up with social pressures, students should focus on giving themselves permission to rest. Whether that means binge-watching favorite shows, spending time outdoors or catching up on sleep, reclaiming the true spirit of spring break means creating space for relaxation without guilt or expectations.

Let’s remember that rest isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s an essential part of our well-being. This spring break, embrace the idea of truly stepping away from the pressure. For as long as you’re able, shut your computers, monitor your social media use, set down your textbooks and prioritize yourself wherever you are — the work will still be there when you come back.